Simon of Cyrene (sai-REE-nee) is remembered in Scripture through choices and relationships that still deserve careful reading.
Birth year: Unknown.
Death year: Unknown.
Active during: The crucifixion of Jesus, in the first century AD.
Home region: Cyrene in North Africa; encountered Jesus in Jerusalem.
Main passages: Matthew 27:32; Mark 15:21; Luke 23:26.
Story and role
Simon was a man from Cyrene compelled by Roman soldiers to carry Jesus’ cross on the way to the crucifixion. Mark identifies him as the father of Alexander and Rufus.
What the record preserves
The biblical passages show the choices, relationships, and consequences that made Simon of Cyrene part of the larger story. They should be read in context rather than reduced to a single label.
Limits of the evidence
Scripture does not record Simon’s occupation, later life, or inner response. The portrait is imagined.
Explore the places connected with Simon of Cyrene on a modern reference map.
Read further
Matthew 27:32; Mark 15:21; Luke 23:26, NIV; BiblicalTraining reference library.