Chapter 14 Flashcards
Midrash
A rabbinic style interpretation of the biblical text often associated with fictional expansions of Old Testament narrative
Birth narratives
Introductory sections of Matthew and Luke which describe events surrounding the birth of Jesus and set the stage for their theological themes
Genealogies
Tables or lists which show the line of descent from earlier ancestors genealogies are often meant to show someone’s legitimacy for particular role or status
Levirate marriage
The practice requirement of marriage of a widow to the brother of her deceased husband in order to produce an heir for the dead man
Virginal conception
A more accurate description of the virgin birth whereby Mary conceived Jesus through the supernatural intervention of God’s Spirit rather than through sexual intercourse
Nazareth
The Galilean village where Jesus was raised
Bethlehem
The traditional birthplace of Jesus confirming his fulfillment of Micah 5:2 and his legitimacy as the Messiah from David’s line
Census
Though the census of Luke 2:1 does not appear elsewhere in Roman records it fits the general pattern of administrative reform initiated by Caesar Augustus
Herod the great
The Idumean or Edomite ruler who gained the throne of Israel after the Roman conquest of Palestine and ruled from 37 to 4 BC
Inn
Probably not an ancient hotel but either a guestroom in a private residence or in formal public shelter were travelers would gather for the night
Magi
Probably Persian or Arabian astrologers who charted the stars and attach religious significance to their movements
Archelaeus
The son of Herod the great, his rule of Judea ended when he was deposed by the Romans
Sepphoris
An important Hellenistic city located a few miles from Jesus Hometown Nazareth
Infancy Gospels
Fanciful accounts of Jesus boyhood which describe him as a child prodigy and miracle worker
