# Jesus — Jesus the Son of Man character guide > Jesus in Jesus the Son of Man by Kahlil Gibran. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Jesus of Nazareth, Nazareth, the Nazarene, The Galilean, the Galilean, Christ, the Christ **First appearance:** 0000-james-the-son-of-zebedee ## Snapshot The Galilean who walks alone, greets no one, and speaks to crowds as if each listener were already known to God. ## Who they are To his own townspeople he is arrogance in sandals: a man who abandons kin, refuses salutations, and turns vagabond, his voice a claw in the flesh of Nazareth. Yet to the poet-elder Nicodemus he is the oak the weeds cannot measure, the man who brings peace to men of goodwill and a sword between those who would peace and those who would a sword. His refusal to be owned by family, village, or expectation is the pressure every narrator in this book must answer. ## Relationships ### [Luke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/characters/luke) _professional_ Jesus calls Luke as a disciple, and Luke serves as a devoted follower and chronicler of Jesus's life. ### [Mary Magdalene](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/characters/mary_magdalene) _romantic_ Jesus and Mary Magdalene share a deep, intimate love that transcends simple friendship, with strong romantic undertones. ## In the story ### [James the Son of Zebedee](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/james-the-son-of-zebedee) Denounces the Pharisees, leads disciples to Mount Hermon, speaks of his spiritual kingdom, rebukes Judas, and withdraws to be alone. ### [Anna the Mother of Mary](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/anna-the-mother-of-mary) The newborn and later child, described as beautiful, aloof, generous, and beloved by all in Nazareth. ### [Asaph, Called the Orator of Tyre](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/asaph-called-the-orator-of-tyre) Asaph describes Jesus' speech as powerful and unlike any other orator, speaking to the heart with divine authority. ### [Mary Magdalene](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/mary-magdalene) The object of Mary's initial hatred and later devotion, whose unique walk and profound words reveal his divine nature and love for her unseen self. ### [Philemon, a Greek Apothecary](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/philemon-a-greek-apothecary) Described as the Master Physician, healing the sick and even raising the dead, but also noted for His focus on religion and politics. ### [Simon Who Was Called Peter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/simon-who-was-called-peter) Calls Peter and Andrew to follow him, visits their home, shares a meal, and speaks of spiritual peace and the second birth. ### [Caiaphas the High Priest](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/caiaphas-the-high-priest) Referenced by Caiaphas as a defiler and corrupter who poisoned the minds of the people and opposed both Jewish law and Roman authority. ### [Joanna the Wife of Herod’s Steward](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/joanna-the-wife-of-herod-s-steward) Jesus befriends women and children, and He refuses to judge Joanna, instead reproaching her accusers. ### [Rafca the Bride of Cana](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/rafca-the-bride-of-cana) Stops at Rafca's garden, drinks water, promises to attend her wedding, and later performs a miracle by providing wine. ### [A Persian Philosopher in Damascus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-persian-philosopher-in-damascus) Referenced as 'this man Jesus, this Nazarene' whose teachings about a forgiving God are discussed. ### [David, One of His Followers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/david-one-of-his-followers) Referenced through His sayings and the impact of His words on David. ### [Luke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/luke) Expresses wrath toward hypocrites, forgives sinners, and explains the distinction in the Garden of Pomegranates. ### [Matthew](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/matthew) Delivers the Sermon on the Mount, teaching the Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer. ### [John the Son of Zebedee](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/john-the-son-of-zebedee) Referred to as Jesus the Nazarene, the Man of Nazareth, and the Son of Man; the host and mouthpiece of the Christ. ### [A Young Priest of Capernaum](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-young-priest-of-capernaum) Accused by the young priest of being a magician and deceiver, manipulating women and the marginalized. ### [A Rich Levite in the Neighbourhood of Nazareth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-rich-levite-in-the-neighbourhood-of-nazareth) Remembered as a skilled carpenter whose work surpassed that of other builders, hinting at His divine nature. ### [A Shepherd in South Lebanon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-shepherd-in-south-lebanon) Jesus asks about Elijah's grave and later finds the shepherd's lost sheep, showing compassion. ### [John the Baptist, to One of His Disciples](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/john-the-baptist-to-one-of-his-disciples) Referenced as the one whose voice is heard on the battlefield, the coming conqueror, and the object of John's devotion. ### [Joseph of Arimathea](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/joseph-of-arimathea) Central figure whose teachings and actions are recounted by Joseph, including His words about the neighbor, freedom, and His impending passion. ### [Nathaniel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/nathaniel) Portrayed as a powerful and authoritative figure, not meek or humble. ### [Saba of Antioch](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/saba-of-antioch) Saba contrasts Jesus's teachings of freedom and joy with Paul's legalistic approach. ### [Salome, to a Woman Friend](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/salome-to-a-woman-friend) Object of Salome's secret admiration, described as beautiful and forgiving. ### [Rachael, a Woman Disciple](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/rachael-a-woman-disciple) Rachael reflects on Jesus' humanity and divinity, His joy and sorrow, and His profound impact on her life. ### [Cleopas of Bethroune](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/cleopas-of-bethroune) Cleopas recalls Jesus' speech, which was directed to the sea, the mountain, and the angels, and his authoritative declarations 'But I say unto you.' ### [Naaman of the Gadarenes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/naaman-of-the-gadarenes) Referred to as the Master who gave His disciples the legacy of pain and joy; His death is central to the chapter. ### [Thomas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/thomas) Called Thomas; made Himself manifest to Thomas after His resurrection. ### [Elmadam the Logician](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/elmadam-the-logician) Described by Elmadam as a disorderly mendicant and drunkard who defied state and empire, ultimately brought to earth by hunters. ### [One of the Marys](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/one-of-the-marys) Portrayed with a high head and the flame of God in His eyes, often sad but with a tenderness that comforts the afflicted. ### [Rumanous, a Greek Poet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/rumanous-a-greek-poet) Described as a poet who loves all things of loveliness, from blades of grass to almond blossoms, and whose songs are for other ears beyond this world. ### [Levi, a Disciple](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/levi-a-disciple) Calls Levi to follow him, dines at his house, and answers the publicans' questions with teachings on compassion and judgment. ### [A Widow in Galilee](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-widow-in-galilee) Referenced as the Nazarene, blamed by the widow for taking her son away. ### [Judas the Cousin of Jesus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/judas-the-cousin-of-jesus) Receives news of John's death, grieves for John and Herod, and reassures John's disciples. ### [The Man from the Desert](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/the-man-from-the-desert) Clears the temple with a rope, overturning tables and freeing doves, then tenderly touches the returning doves. ### [Peter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/peter) Leads the disciples and teaches about the hardships of the path. ### [Melachi of Babylon, an Astronomer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/melachi-of-babylon-an-astronomer) Referred to as the Wayfarer and the Man Anointed; the subject of Melachi's reflections on miracles and spiritual transformation. ### [A Philosopher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-philosopher) Portrayed as having ever-fresh senses and a wonder-filled perception of the world, unlike ordinary humans. ### [Uriah, an Old Man of Nazareth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/uriah-an-old-man-of-nazareth) Uriah recounts Jesus' childhood, youth, and ministry with hostility, accusing Him of arrogance and speaking evil of the people. ### [Nicodemus the Poet, the Youngest of the Elders in the Sanhedrin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/nicodemus-the-poet-the-youngest-of-the-elders-in-the-sanhedrin) Referred to as the 'Poet of Galilee' and the source of Nicodemus's spiritual awakening. ### [Joseph of Arimathea](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/joseph-of-arimathea) Referred to as the Nazarene; engages in a long conversation with Joseph, answering his questions. ### [Georgus of Beirut](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/georgus-of-beirut) Speaks to Georgus and his disciples about the kingdom having no strangers and the interconnectedness of all people. ### [Mary Magdalene](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/mary-magdalene) Described through Mary's eyes as gentle, powerful, and both human and divine. ### [Jotham of Nazareth, to a Roman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/jotham-of-nazareth-to-a-roman) Described as a simple man who came without armies or ships to establish a kingdom in the heart. ### [Ephraim of Jericho](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/ephraim-of-jericho) Jesus is invited to a wedding but declines, speaking of himself as the Bridegroom and hinting at a deeper spiritual condition for his presence. ### [Barca, a Merchant of Tyre](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/barca-a-merchant-of-tyre) Portrayed as a sage with deep understanding of merchants and human nature, not a god. ### [Phumiah, the High Priestess of Sidon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/phumiah-the-high-priestess-of-sidon) Referred to as the dauntless Man, the lofty Oak, the fearless Hunter, the valiant Youth; the subject of Phumiah's song. ### [Benjamin the Scribe](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/benjamin-the-scribe) Portrayed as a spiritual figure above state and race, who wept and smiled for humanity, and founded a new kingdom of the spirit. ### [Zacchaeus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/zacchaeus) Central figure whose death and sacrifice are discussed. ### [Jonathan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/jonathan) Referred to as the Poet in Nazareth, whose presence is felt as they row. ### [Hannah of Bethsaida](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/hannah-of-bethsaida) Passes by Hannah and her aunt, greeted with reverence; later seen on a hilltop speaking to followers. ### [Manasseh, a Lawyer in Jerusalem](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/manasseh-a-lawyer-in-jerusalem) Manasseh recalls hearing Jesus speak, admiring His voice and gestures but not the substance of His speech. ### [Jephtha of Caesarea](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/jephtha-of-caesarea) Jephtha criticizes Jesus, calling Him a shadow and a gleaner of past traditions. ### [John the Beloved Disciple](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/john-the-beloved-disciple) Subject of John's reflections, described as the first Word of God made flesh. ### [Mannus the Pompeiian, to a Greek](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/mannus-the-pompeiian-to-a-greek) Referred to as a philosopher who revealed God as a being of joy, yet was tortured and put to death; His laughter is not heeded by His followers. ### [Pontius Pilatus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/pontius-pilatus) Brought before Pilate, remains silent and speaks of truth and the Spirit. ### [Bartholomew in Ephesus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/bartholomew-in-ephesus) Defended by Bartholomew as a man above men, noble and free, not aligned with any social class. ### [Matthew](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/matthew) Jesus pauses at the prison wall, speaks words of comfort and solidarity to the prisoners, and foreshadows his own imprisonment. ### [Andrew](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/andrew) Central figure in Andrew's memories, teaching about God's care, forgiveness, and the parable of the prodigal son and the merchant. ### [A Rich Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-rich-man) Jesus advises the rich man to give his possessions to the poor and follow him. ### [John at Patmos](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/john-at-patmos) Central figure of John's memories; his calling, miracles, and selfless act of giving apples. ### [Peter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/peter) Teaches about the nature of a neighbor and responds to Peter's question with a parable about a sparrow. ### [A Cobbler in Jerusalem](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-cobbler-in-jerusalem) The cobbler listens to Jesus, captivated by the sound of his voice rather than the meaning of his words. ### [Susannah of Nazareth, a Neighbour of Mary](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/susannah-of-nazareth-a-neighbour-of-mary) Crucified, he speaks to Mary and John from the cross, and is remembered by Mary as a 'seafarer'. ### [Joseph Surnamed Justus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/joseph-surnamed-justus) Despised and considered mad, yet His words and song are eternal. ### [Philip](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/philip) Philip recalls Jesus's crucifixion and His words of forgiveness from the cross. ### [Birbàrah of Yammouni](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/birb-rah-of-yammouni) Portrayed as both patient and impatient, forbearing with the weak but stern with hypocrites and those who seek external signs. ### [Pilate’s Wife, to a Roman Lady](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/pilate-s-wife-to-a-roman-lady) Seen teaching His followers; His presence and words profoundly affect Pilate's wife. ### [A Man Outside of Jerusalem](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-man-outside-of-jerusalem) Referenced as the one betrayed and crucified; his kingdom and forgiveness are central to Judas's confession. ### [Sarkis, an Old Greek Shepherd, Called the Madman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/sarkis-an-old-greek-shepherd-called-the-madman) Appears in a dream, conversing with Pan and playing a flute, symbolizing harmony between nature and the divine. ### [Annas the High Priest](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/annas-the-high-priest) Referred to by Annas as a brigand and blasphemer from Galilee, whose crucifixion Annas justifies. ### [A Woman, One of Mary’s Neighbours](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-woman-one-of-mary-s-neighbours) Mourned as the 'Spring' and 'Flower' of the land; his death is the occasion for the threnody. ### [Ahaz the Portly](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/ahaz-the-portly) The central figure of the memory, who dines at Ahaz's inn and gives a parting blessing. ### [Barabbas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/barabbas) Crucified in Barabbas's place, speaks words of forgiveness and compassion from the cross. ### [Claudius, a Roman Centurion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/claudius-a-roman-centurion) Held in custody, mocked with a crown of thorns, and looked at Claudius with compassion. ### [James the Brother of the Lord](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/james-the-brother-of-the-lord) Washes the disciples' feet, shares the Last Supper, prays in Gethsemane, and is betrayed by Judas. ### [Simon of Cyrene](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/simon-of-cyrene) Carrying His cross, He speaks to Simon and places His hand on his shoulder, leaving a lasting impression. ### [Cyborea the Mother of Judas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/cyborea-the-mother-of-judas) Referred to as Jesus of Nazareth, whom Judas followed, and whom Cyborea believes Judas did not betray. ### [The Woman of Byblos](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/the-woman-of-byblos) Referenced as the deceased beloved, whose death is mourned. ### [Mary Magdalene](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/mary-magdalene) Central figure, risen and walking in solitude, the object of love and hatred. ### [A Man from Lebanon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/chapters/a-man-from-lebanon) The central figure, addressed as 'Master' and 'Poet,' whose life and teachings are reflected upon across centuries. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/characters/jesus - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/jesus_the_son_of_man_se/characters