Joseph of Arimathea by William Blake (1757-1827)
Joseph of Arimathea holds a peculiar place in the mythology and traditions of England. He was a wealthy Jewish merchant from Judea who was also a contemporary follower of Jesus Christ. As a member of the Jewish council, or Sanhedrin, he was a man of considerable influence in his own country. Joseph of Arimathea is so named because he came from Arimathea in Judea. He was mentioned in all four gospels and from these we know he was a good and righteous man
Joseph’s legacy
Joseph was believed to have converted thousands of people to the Christian faith, including Ethelbert, a local king of the time. He was also said to have founded Glastonbury Abbey. At his death at the age of 86, it is said that he was so respected that six kings bore his coffin. His life and actions in Britain remains enigmatic and whatever the truth is we will probably never know but Joseph of Arimathea remains an important figure in English and Christian tradition. Read more ….
