Simon the Leper
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Simon the Leper is a biblical figure mentioned by the Gospels according to Matthew (26:6-13) and Mark (14:3-9).
These two books narrate how Jesus attends a meal at Bethany hosted by Simon, during the course of which a woman annoints Jesus.
Simon the Leper is often identified with Simon the Pharisee, who is mentioned in the Gospel of Luke (7:36-50) as the host of a meal during which Jesus in annointed by a woman. Because of these similarities the events and characters have traditionally been identified, but some scholars have pointed out differences between the two events.[1].
The meaning of his nick name the lepper is sometimes questioned because of the outcast status of lepers. Reinterpretations include that of the potter[2] or the Essene.
[edit] Christian legend
Later Christian traditions held that Simon travelled to France, having landed at the mouth of the Rhône with St. Lazarus and Mary, sister of Lazarus, was the earliest apostle of Maguelonne.[3]