Golgotha

The name comes from the Aramaic word for skull. Several explanations exist for the name. Some suggest the site was a rounded rocky outcrop that resembled a skull. Others propose that skulls of executed criminals remained there. An ancient tradition, not supported by Scripture, held that Adam was buried there, making it the place of Adam's skull. The Gospel writers simply record the name without explaining its origin.

Two main sites are proposed. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, within the Old City of Jerusalem, has been venerated as the location since the fourth century when Constantine's mother Helena identified it. Archaeological evidence confirms this area was outside the city walls in Jesus' time and contained first-century tombs. The second proposed site, Gordon's Calvary or the Garden Tomb, was identified in the 19th century based on a skull-like appearance in the rock face. Most scholars favor the Church of the Holy Sepulchre site.

Combining all four Gospels, Jesus spoke seven times from the cross. Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. To the repentant thief: Today you will be with me in Paradise. To Mary and John: Woman, behold your son; behold your mother. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? I thirst. It is finished. Father, into your hands I commit my spirit. These words reveal Jesus as intercessor, savior, caretaker, sin-bearer, human sufferer, victor, and trusting Son.