When Mary Magdalene is first introduced, she is in the company of Joanna, the wife of a Herodian official; this suggests she is known within the high Jewish court. Jesus cures Magdalene of some unspecified ailment, and she is the only close companion of his that he meets through his healing ability. After this, she is known to care for Jesus and his followers “out of her resources.” This has been interpreted both as Mary being a well-to-do businesswoman and as a product of Mary's romantic desire. The severe disorder of which Jesus cured her has been interpreted as a consequence of Mary's immoral lifestyle -- namely, an STD.

​

In a 2nd century Coptic manuscript, Magdalene is the recipient of a vision of Christ in which she is praised for her devotion. This led to the other Apostles, specifically Peter, attacking Magdalene when she explains her vision and attempting to discredit her authority as a disciple because of her womanhood. Jesus stood up on her behalf and began to privately teach her his ways, presenting her as a leader in the Christian community. In the Gospel of Philip, Magdalene is the most beloved of the disciples and the one whom he kisses frequently (kissing as a greeting was a common practice for this time period, although some modern interpretations take this to imply a sexual relationship between the two). Mary Magdalene was the first to see Jesus after his resurrection and was also present at his crucifixion, making her one of the most important Apostles. In orthodox Christianity she is depicted as a prostitute by Gregory I without any evidence, but in most modern Christianity takes (1980s+)  she is restored to the role of a leader, especially as a role model for Christian women in their salvation.