“The Chosen” is a groundbreaking television series that offers a fresh perspective on the life of Jesus Christ, focusing not only on His ministry but also on the lives of those who crossed His path. In this captivating series, viewers witness the transformative power of faith and the profound impact of encountering Jesus.
“The Chosen” is a beautiful masterpiece in every sense – from casting to script, costumes, locations, and cinematography. This series reignites one’s love for Jesus, making His abundant love palpable. It adds depth to every character, crafting moments that inspire both laughter and tears. Moments like Jesus telling Mary, “You are mine,” or performing miracles, bring the Bible’s stories to life in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Watching Jesus engage with children and dine with the “outcasts” reveals His boundless love for us. The conversations with Nicodemus and the journey of Matthew inspire and uplift. It’s a show that touches your soul and reminds you of God’s providence. Discovering “The Chosen” is a blessing, and it’s a journey worth sharing and praying for.
Mary Magdalene, one of the most enigmatic and significant figures in the Bible, is at the heart of “The Chosen.” Her journey from a life consumed by darkness to becoming a devoted follower of Jesus is a central theme in the series. But what sets “The Chosen” apart is its portrayal of Mary Magdalene as Lilith—a name drawn from Jewish folklore that connotes a demon. This unique depiction serves as a powerful symbol of her past struggles and the dramatic transformation she undergoes upon encountering Jesus.
Who Was Mary Magdalene?
One of our earliest encounters in “The Chosen” introduces us to Mary Magdalene. In the era of the New Testament, where women often found themselves overlooked or marginalized, Mary Magdalene, also known as Mary of Magdala, emerges as a prominent figure in both the Bible and the TV series. She’s mentioned by name an impressive twelve times across the four Gospels, surpassing even some of the individual apostles in terms of verses dedicated to her. Yet, despite her prominence, Mary remains a bit of a mystery, with much of what we know about her stemming from sources beyond the Bible, including legends and misinterpretations.
So, who was Mary Magdalene in the Bible? Here’s what the New Testament tells us:
Firstly, she had been possessed by evil spirits, and Jesus had cast them out. Subsequently, she became a devoted follower, even supporting the disciples in their ministry (Luke 8:1–4).
Mary was a witness to the agonizing moments of Jesus’ crucifixion (Matt. 27:56; Mark 15:40; John 19:25) and was present at His burial (Matt. 27:61; Mark 15:47).
All four Gospels agree that she returned to Jesus’ tomb on the morning of His resurrection and was among the first to discover it empty (Matt. 28:1; Mark 16:1; Luke 24:10; John 20:1, 11).
Remarkably, Mary Magdalene was the first living person to encounter the resurrected Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels of Mark and John (Mark 16:9; John 20:14–18).
These passages provide us with scant information about Mary’s personal history, family, or other significant details we often consider important. However, the fact that her name appears so prominently and frequently in the Gospels underscores her character and her special connection with Jesus.
Her unwavering dedication endured through the harrowing trial, torture, and Crucifixion of the Lord. This implies not only her courage but also the potential danger Christ’s followers might have faced (as seen in Peter’s denials). Despite the risks, Mary remained steadfast by His side.
Perhaps most telling is the fact that Jesus chose her to be the first witness of His resurrection, signifying His immense respect for Mary. She had undoubtedly proven her worth and nurtured a profound personal bond with Jesus during His ministry.
“The Chosen” beautifully adapts Mary’s story, delving into her initial despair, subsequent redemption, and ultimate devotion to Jesus and His teachings across multiple captivating episodes.
Who Was Lilith in the Bible?
Now, you might be wondering about the choice of the name “Lilith.” Although the name Lilith doesn’t appear in the Bible itself, it does have a significant presence in Jewish folklore, where it’s often linked to malevolent or sinister forces. In the first season of “The Chosen,” the portrayal of Mary Magdalene as Lilith symbolizes the period in her life when she grappled with possession by evil spirits, just before her profound encounter with Jesus. This choice of name poignantly represents her past struggles and the darkness she overcame through her unwavering faith.
The Chosen Season 1 Summary
Mary Magdalene’s remarkable transformation fully unfolds in “The Chosen” Season 1, Episode 2. It is in Season 1, Episode 1, titled “I Have Called You By Name,” that viewers first meet Lilith, a woman tormented by demons in the town of Capernaum. Despite efforts, even by the respected Nicodemus, to exorcise her, her suffering persists. It is only when she encounters Jesus for the first time that her life takes a dramatic turn. His divine touch and the declaration, “You are mine,” bring an end to her torment, signifying the transformative power of faith.
Nicodemus encounters a completely renewed woman, a testament to the profound change that faith has wrought in her life. This transformation makes her one of the most devoted followers of Jesus. Her unwavering faith leads her to become the first person to witness Jesus at the tomb after His resurrection.
Wrapping it up:
In conclusion, “The Chosen” presents an innovative and deeply moving portrayal of Mary Magdalene’s journey from darkness to light (another intriguing portrayal of Mary Magdalene is by Susan Grohmann, by the way, and it’s definitely worth a read!).
Her depiction as Lilith underscores the power of faith and the transformative nature of encountering Jesus. Through this unique lens, viewers are invited to witness not only the life of Jesus but also the lives of those He touched — a testament to the enduring impact of faith and redemption.
