Illustration created for this project.
Simon of Cyrene
A passer-by compelled to carry the cross of Jesus on the way to Golgotha.
What we know — and how we know it
Bible — stated in scripture (with verse) · 1
Archaeology — physical evidence · 1
Life, role & deeds
BibleA man from Cyrene, father of Alexander and Rufus, compelled to carry Jesus's cross on the road to Golgotha.
Mark 15:21
ArchaeologyA 1st-century ossuary from a Cyrenian-Jewish tomb in Jerusalem is inscribed 'Alexander son of Simon' — possibly this family, though the link is unproven.
The 'Alexander son of Simon' ossuary (Greek Ἀλεξάνδρου Σίμωνος), from a burial cave of Cyrenian Jews in the Kidron Valley, Jerusalem, excavated 1941; published by N. Avigad, 'A Depository of Inscribed Ossuaries in the Kidron Valley,' Israel Exploration Journal 12 (1962), 1–12; proposed link to the Simon of Cyrene of Mark 15:21 remains unproven.
Where in scripture
MarkFamily
In art
