Witness at the Cross: A Beginner's Guide to Holy Friday

by Amy-Jill Levine

Place yourself as a witness of the cross and determine what your own testimony will be! Experience Holy Friday from the perspective of those who watched Jesus Mary his mother; the Beloved Disciple from the Gospel of John; Mary Magdalene and the other women from Galilee; the two men, usually identified as thieves, crucified with Jesus; the centurion and the soldiers; Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. Jews and Romans, friends and strangers, the powerful and the powerless, the hopeful and the despairing. The story of Jesus’s death is not something we just we think about it, and we experience it; we hear the taunts of the soldiers, the priests, and the passersby even as we hear the famous “seven last words” from the cross.In Witness at the Cross, Amy-Jill Levine shows how the people at the cross each have distinct roles to play. Each Evangelist presents a distinct picture of the death of Jesus. Each portrays different individuals and groups of people at the cross, each offers different images and dialogues, and so from each, we learn how those meanings and messages cross the centuries to any who would come to the cross today. Each Gospel has its own story to tell, all the witnesses have their own memories, and every reader comes away with a new insight. The witnesses at the Crucifixion watch Jesus die, and we watch with them, and we watch them. And we come away transformed. Additional components are available for a six-week study include a DVD featuring Dr. Levine and a comprehensive Leader Guide.

Genres: Religion, Church, Nonfiction, Christianity

167 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 28, 2021

About the author

Amy-Jill Levine is University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies and Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School and Department of Jewish Studies. Her books include The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus; Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi; four children's books (with Sandy Sasso); The Gospel of Luke (with Ben Witherington III); and The Jewish Annotated New Testament (co-edited with Marc Z. Brettler). Her most recent books are The Bible With and Without Jesus: How Jews and Christians Read the Same Stories Differently (co-authored with Marc Z. Brettler), Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner's Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven; and The Kingdom of Heaven: 40 Devotionals. In 2019 she became the first Jew to teach New Testament at Rome's Pontifical Biblical Institute. Professor Levine, who has done over 300 programs for churches, clergy groups, and seminaries, has been awarded grants from the Mellon Foundation, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the American Council of Learned Societies. Institutions granting her honorary degrees include Christian Theological Seminary and the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest.

Reviews

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witness at the Cross: A Beginner’s Guide to Holy Friday is an eye-opening look at Good Friday from author Amy-Jill Levine. It is an in-depth look at the cross from several people that were there. I found it enlightening and a must keep book for my reference library.

Author Levine has divided her book into six chapters along with an introduction and conclusion. She obviously has done extensive research to produce such a detailed book. I learned so much even though I thought I knew all about the crucifixion and resurrection. Her insights were eye-opening and shined a new light on things.

Levine has a style of writing that is straight forward and easy to understand. Scripture is referenced heavily throughout her book. Explanations are explained with references. She taught me so much about the temple, veil, and people. Her knowledge of Judaism from the time of Jesus made the events more relatable and understandable. Questions concerning laws about the Sabbath, the temple, the torn veil, and observation of the Passover feast were efficiently explained.

Author Levine is “Rabbi Stanley M. Kessler Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace and University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies Emerita, Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies Emerita, and Professor of New Testament Studies Emerita at Vanderbilt University.” She has written many books on Jesus.

I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to study Holy Friday. Whether you are a fledgling Christian or seasoned one, this amazing book will be an excellent tool to help you learn. It would make a beautiful Lenten group study. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars.

[Tim Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot from this book and appreciated that the author, a biblical scholar, is Jewish. The perspective was at once scholarly and intimate. Above all, a provocative exploration of what people do with stories (or not).

[Deborah Porras · Rating 4 out of 5]

Using for lent and it is really good. As per her usual it is full of historical and theological context and different insights for classic stories:) excited to explore it with my congregation this Lent!

[Carl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book used by my Church for this year's Lenten study. The group included an accompanying video lecture for each week. A Biblical Scholar, Ms Levine is the kind of professor I would have loved when I was in school!

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you were to read this review and order the book immediately, you would have in your hands the most exciting new Lenten study book. I hope you will be as excited as I am with the book. Amy-Jo or AJ as she is called by friends is a Rabbi, who has an extension number of both Jewish and Protestant college where she teaches. She richly combines history, social context and other scripture for both serious thinkers. It is called a beginner’s guide because of its simplest approach but yet so easy to follow. You will want your own copy to underline and look up the references, her insights will challenge you on every page yet she encourages you to enjoy the diversity of the gospels with humor and generosity of heart.
The book begins with an introduction on Simon of Cyrene. She states that gospel evidence does not provide a precise setting for the Crucifixion, not knowing the exact spot should be a prompt for reflection rather than consternation. Right away you are drawn into exact scripture to follow her teachings. She then presents six chapters entitled bystanders and scoffers, other victims, the soldiers, the beloved disciple, the women and Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. Her ending conclusion is God and nature, all in 151 pages. It fits perfectly in the weeks following Ash Wednesday.
For an example of the teasers to her learning sound bites, yes, she does have a DVD of this book, I will list the subsections of the first section on bystanders and scoffers: Different perspectives; passersby; the temple; cry of dereliction; cup of sour wine; king of the Jews; chief priests, scribes and elders; and ending and now? She very easily goes from each of the gospels showing the very different wordings and their possible underlying reasonings in such a friendly manner you are excited to complete the whole study. There is plenty to talk about and try to understand more of the very setting and time in history. She jokes about the Jewish differences and challenges in such a way you are anxious to learn more.
We did a study on sitting at the feet of rabbi Jesus by Anne Spangler and Lois Tverberg published by Zondervan, which made this book by Amy-Jill Levine to be even more exciting.

[Carol Graft · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amy-Jill Levine with her book "Witness at the Cross" takes an intriguing look at Good (Holy) Friday, the day of Christ’s Crucifixion. Focusing on many of the secondary characters that were involved in, or were also there on that day.

She uses a great blend of Scripture both Old Testament and New Testament, comparisons of all four Gospels, historical details as well as a smattering of “how should we approach our thinking and discussions of social issues of the present day” commentary and questions. Because as we know and see in this book social, community issues have not changed with humankind. She sprinkles in just enough humor to lighten what could be a very heavy book, since this day for believers and historically is indeed a heavy one.

I really enjoyed reading her take on many of those people who were there that many don’t include in other studies. Amy-Jill Levine takes a look at the scoffers, the men also crucified the same day, the women, members of the Sanhedrin and the Roman Army as well as others.

Her Old Testament citations usually show us the prophecies, Jesus’ own words, the overlap of what the Gospels say about that day, and the events leading up to it.

I don’t necessarily agree with everything she says, but that only makes me want to perhaps dig a little bit more on my own. I definitely will keep this in my reference bookcase.

[Jane Healy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book with groups in my church during Lent. The author is extremely knowledgeable, and as a Jew who teaches New Testament at Vanderbilt, we learned the Jewish history and customs of Jesus' day. Those in my groups agreed that the subheading "A Beginner's Guide to Holy Friday" was misleading, as the reading felt more like a college course. Levine compares what each gospel writer says about Christ's passion--who was there and what they did and said--to give us a fuller picture of the scene. She considers the motives of each witness and finds ways to relate this to our own lives and churches. Are we "sympathizers," like Nicodemus? Are we fearful like the disciples who went into hiding? What about the two men who were crucified on either side of Jesus--what is paradise, and will at least one of them be saved? Can we foster compassion for those incarcerated and for their victims? Levine gives much consideration to the women in the story, including Jesus' use of the word "Woman," when addressing one. She causes us to read these scriptures closely, paying attention to every word and punctuation mark. This book was a challenging read, and we are all glad to have read it.

[Patty Corwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read as part of my Saturday small group study.

I can’t say enough positive things about AJ Levine! I love her writing,her personality as it come through the book, and even her humor in such a serious topic.

I know the Bible stories of Jesus at the Cross, but I’ve never looked in depth at those who are present - and it’s different people depending on the Gospel writer. Each had his own spin of the event - each highlighted a different version of the crucifixion and the events that led to and the aftermath. I’m fascinated by the historicity as well as the divinity : did the Sanhedrin really meet at night? was Nicodemus a true believer or just a good man with no commitment? who were the women at the Cross and what part did they play in Jesus’s ministry? Etc., etc. I know the Bible contains contradictions and varied witness accounts - and I appreciate the chance to ponder it all and work out my faith more deeply.

I feel exceptionally fortunate to have been part of 2 live Zoom classes with AJ Levine and hope to audit a class on the parables that she is teaching this summer.

[Cathy Sweeney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Levine is a treasure, and I do enjoy reading her commentary and watching the videos that accompany her books. In "Witness at the Cross," she effectively explains the theology and history surrounding the individuals and groups who are mentioned as present for Jesus' crucifixion.

What I found interesting, though, is her woven storytelling that incorporates her (and our) experiences today. The soldiers at the cross become guards in todays jails and prisons. The women at the cross become the supportive leaders of our current time. The stories of Joseph and Nicodemus have us ask, "Are the disciples among us who are not formal members of our church, fully welcomed into the community?"

While some of Dr. Levine's writings and video commentary brings a bit of seminary learning and ponderings to our lives, she brings life to the theological and historical questions. She provides her opinions and beliefs, while encouraging each of us to consider how we might answer the questions.

[Aaron Z Carlson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Dr. Amy Jill Levine. She brings a lot of nuance to her writing. I have studied several of her studies in my Sunday School classes. The videos are great companions, very witty, nuanced and likable. Such a smart gal! With that said, her writing style can be distracting. If you haven’t seen the video it can be downright annoying. If you’ve seen the companion DVD it’s less frustrating because you can imagine her speaking and humor.

What I like about this book is the angle it approaches by evaluating the various witnesses at the cross. You’ll be blessed with learning Jewish traditions that tie into the scripture. She doesn’t present just her view or speculation but she delves into a variety of views and possibilities. She’ll certainly let you know which one she subscribes too! She’ll back it up with why she believes that way (often tied to legit Judaism customs at the time).

[Heather Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made for an incredibly thought-provoking read during Lent, and I'm so glad that there were enough people interested in my church to read this for a small group. This book is neatly divided into multiple chapters regarding individuals and groups of people who witnessed Jesus's death and resurrection. From the Romans who were guilty of sentencing and crucifying Jesus to Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who lovingly tended to Jesus' corpse, each of these witnesses teach us about Jesus' love and life.

I cannot wait to read another book by Amy-Jill Levine. This book was incredible, and it has been some time since my thinking has been challenged so thoroughly!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by AJ Levine and it did not disappoint. I feel that it is an accessible read even if you haven't attended seminary (although for those that haven't, it can get a little dense in places). One thing that I appreciated (along with her dry sense of humor) was her ability to imagine. We don't use our imaginations enough in church. Time and time again, she would "perhaps" a fresh reading into existence. If you're looking for a good book study for your church or something for personal study as Easter approaches, look no further!

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Witness at the Cross

Amy-Jill looks at the Cross from 2000 years away using the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, Luke, and John, comparing and blending their message in a remarkable way. From her own Jewish faith, she sees and explains things that we often miss altogether or misunderstand and explai them in a way that helps us to understand. She understands the universal nature of the stories and how they can serve as inspiration for all people, Christians, Jews and others. She goes on to pose the hard questions that are part of our faith and life.

[Carol Zwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this thoughtful, but accessible, look at those who were with Jesus on Good Friday. It is a great study for this season and arranged in seven chapters, one for each week before Easter. Professor Levine is a clear and lively writer and I came away with new insights on very familiar material. I learned -- as I frequently do when a writer brings scholarship and original thought to material -- that there's a lot I don't know.

[Daniel Dolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deep dive into the Gospel accounts of the crucifixion. I would classify this text as a graduate level study. Our adult Sunday school class was rewarded with an equal amount of new insights and questions to ponder after each weekly chapter during lent.
Levine's deep knowledge of the scriptures, supporting documentation, and her methodology are balanced by her humor and humanity. I would highly recommend this book for your own personal study or for use with a group.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent book about the Cross by a wonderful Jewish New Testament scholar. The book is filled with original insights and has great perspective. My main criticism is that at times she attributed a precision to New Testament language that I am not sure is intended. In spite of that this is a book that should be read by Christians and Jews. It holds great potential for providing common ground on which we can further our walk together.

[Loretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author takes us through the witnesses at the trial and crucifixion of Jesus looking at the 4 Gospel readings. She discusses what might have been correct historically and biblically. I liked her last thoughts in the book: "Rather than engage in the futile attempt to determine who exactly the witnesses were, what they saw and what they did, we readers do well to listen to their stories and see how their stories transform us. At that point, we pick up the story ourselves."

[Harry · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's difficult for me to summarize what I learned from Amy-Jill Lavine's book. It was stretching and required deep thinking to take it in. Also a bit uncomfortable, since she takes a different point of view on a number of bible narratives. However, I'm so glad I took the time to consider her point of view and in most cases, she has won me over. Or at least, she has loosened my grip on some tightly held beliefs that probably deserved questioning.

[Dana Harper · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the book represents a varied look at people who may or may not have been witnesses, I found it a difficult read. Well researched ideas were jumbled with personal asides that added nothing to the topic - like abracadabra coming from Aramaic. The chapters on the women were difficult to follow unless you actually made a chart to follow the different Gospels. Some great info and interesting perspectives, but difficult to follow as a casual reader.

[Don W Stout · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great Read about the Crucifixion of Jesus

This book was well written and provided substantiation of various points of views by referencing Biblical and Psalms verses. The author's style of writing and descriptions of events was excellent. I would read another book written by Amy-Jill Levine.

[Kathleen Brandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this to see if I wanted to use it for my Lenten study. I will be using it.

This is a good introduction to the characters at the cross.

Amy-Jill Levine is the New Testament professor at Vanderbilt University. I wish she had been there when I was a student there. I think I would have learned more than I did.

I also have some of her videos from Great Courses.

[Jill M Caldwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, AJ Levine does an excellent job at explaining what is never discussed in Christian churches. She is thorough, explicit and provides credible references for her work. Thank you, AJ, and please keep writing and sharing your knowledge of 1st century Judaism/Christianity.

[Randolph Stephenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Required Reading

…for continuing the ancient conversation that has no ending or right answers, only questions, hard questions, questions that welcome our fears as old friends who know us best.

[Lisa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author does a great job of exploring who was at the cross, and what they might teach us. She weaves in there Jewish understanding into the four gospels helping us better understand the sayings and context. She challenges us to be open to what we can learn a no d how it can transform us.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent read leading up to Good Friday and Easter. It looks at various witnesses that were present at Jesus' death. Theological and historical views are presented. This was very informative.

[Betsy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the final chapter and conclusion the most. The author generates some interesting ideas there. The rest felt more like list making to me.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book and video series was used for SS, AJ packs a lot into each chapter.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 only because some points were belabored. Very thought provoking and wonderful insights from a Jewish scholar’s perspective.

[Magrey Devega · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful exploration of witnesses to the last days and hours of Jesus' life by one of the foremost biblical scholars today.

[Angela McLemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives a good foundation to how the Jewish faith and Christianity share some of same principles and how they differ. The author writes in an easy to understand format.