Matthew 15:39

Μαγαδὰν for Μαγδαλὰ with the chief MSS. (א B D) and versions; some ancient authorities have Μαγεδάν. Most of the later uncials read Μαγδαλά.

39–16:4. JESUS AT MAGDALA, OR MAGADAN, IS TEMPTED TO GIVE A SIGN

Mark 8:10-12; Luke 12:54-57

39. Μαγαδάν. For the reading see critical note. It is probable that the familiar Magdala supplanted in the text the more obscure Magadan. Magdala or Migdol (a watch tower) is identified with the modern Mejdel, a collection of ruins and squalid huts at the S.E. corner of the plain of Gennesaret, opposite to K’hersa or Gergesa. This is the point where the lake is broadest. Prof. Rawlinson thinks that this Magdala may be the Magdolus of Herodotus, II. 159; unless indeed by a confusion curiously similar to that in the text, Herodotus has mistaken Migdol for Megiddo. Magdala was probably the home of Mary Magdalene.