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G1115 · Greek · New Testament
Γολγοθᾶ
Golgotha
Proper noun, place
Golgotha (Place of the Skull)

Definition

Golgotha is an Aramaic term meaning 'skull' or 'place of a skull.' All four Gospels use this name for the location of Jesus' crucifixion, each providing the Greek translation Kranion (skull), which the Latin renders as Calvary (Calvaria). The precise location is debated, but two traditional sites are identified in Jerusalem: the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Gordon's Calvary.

Usage & Theological Significance

Golgotha is the axis of Christian theology — the place where the Son of God 'became sin for us' (2 Corinthians 5:21) and where God reconciled the world to Himself (Colossians 1:20). The name 'place of a skull' carries theological weight: it was a place of death transformed into the source of eternal life. Every major theme of Scripture converges at Golgotha — substitution, sacrifice, wrath, love, covenant, kingdom. The cross at Golgotha is simultaneously the ultimate judgment and the ultimate grace.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 27:33 They came to a place called Golgotha (which means the place of a skull).
Mark 15:22 They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which means the place of a skull).
John 19:17 Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha).
Luke 23:33 When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there.
Colossians 1:20 And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

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