What are the origins of this fun-filled festive custom?
Jewish relationships and, as a result, marriage are typically categorized into two phases: kiddushin (engagement) and nisu'in (marriage ceremony).
Certainly, there are additional layers of complexity to these phases. Essentially, during the kiddushin stage, a couple is recognized as married in the eyes of God. Nevertheless, cohabitation and sexual activity are not components of this particular stage.
Currently, it is common for couples to merge the kiddushin and nisu'in rituals into a single ceremony. However, in the past, the initial stage of this process would be more time-consuming. The couple would engage in studying religious texts in order to prepare for their life together. Unexpectedly, Mary found herself pregnant!
Naturally, maintaining virginity was not just preferred but also anticipated. Setting aside any divine intervention, the sudden revelation of Mary's pregnancy was not quite what Joseph had anticipated.
Matthew 1:19 states:"Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly."
The course of action taken was unexpectedly compassionate (more details to follow). However, his final decision changed when angel Gabriel appeared and conveyed, "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)
As previously mentioned, Joseph intended to leave Mary in order to protect her from "public disgrace." Mary's vulnerability to public disgrace would have likely resulted in her being stoned to death.
According to Deuteronomy 22:21, a woman who engages in premarital sex while living with her parents would face severe consequences. "She shall be brought to the door of her father’s house and there the men of her town shall stone her to death."
Upon learning of the Messiah, King Herod ordered the execution of all children in Bethlehem.
Luckily, an angel gave Joseph the heads up, so he and his family managed to flee.
According to Matthew 1:25, it clearly states:"But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."
While there are differing beliefs regarding Mary's virginity, the Bible does mention Jesus's "brothers." However, some interpret this as figurative language rather than a literal understanding.
Joseph is commonly seen as a carpenter, which emphasizes Jesus' modest upbringing. However, could Joseph have been involved in other trades besides woodworking?
Joseph is referred to as a tektōn in Ancient Greek, meaning an artisan or craftsman, not solely a carpenter. In fact, according to author Adam Bradford, Joseph belonged to the middle class and worked as an architect.
Mary and Joseph hailed from Nazareth, a town with a poor reputation. Even Nathanael, who later became a disciple of Jesus, questioned its credibility, stating, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" (John 1:46).
However, it is a fact that Nazareth was a distinctive location. Uncovered archaeological findings demonstrate that the inhabitants of Nazareth strongly opposed the Roman invasion and held their Jewish culture and traditions in high regard. Perhaps this is the reason why Mary and Joseph were selected by God?
Jesus has often been portrayed with light hair and eyes, but likelihood suggests otherwise. His parents, Mary and Joseph, were probably short with a darker complexion, contrary to some artistic representations.
Israeli Jews did not resemble Vikings. Their complexion could vary, especially if they had Egyptian heritage, potentially resulting in darker skin tone.
Giving birth in the past was a considerably riskier affair. Mary, in particular, would probably have been out of her depth, without midwives and family support. Joseph was the sole individual available to provide assistance in this situation.
The Bible does not address her labor pain, yet the Quran does. In fact, an entire chapter is devoted to Mary's account in the holy book.
Surah Maryam 19:23 states: "And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a palm tree. She said, 'Oh, I wish I had died before this and was in oblivion, forgotten.'"
Mary is frequently depicted wearing blue, and while Israelite women did wear colored clothing, the meaning behind the color blue remains unknown. There are several theories, but no historical evidence supports any of them.
Blue (and white) has long symbolized purity and a connection to God in Judaism. It's one of the colors of Hanukkah, among many other things.
In supplementary texts (writings that didn't make it to the Bible), there is a reference to Melcha, who is noted as Joseph's first wife.
According to the text, after Joseph became a widower with six children, he married Mary, who was a significantly younger woman. He then assumed the role of Jesus' earthly father.
The traditional nativity story depicts baby Jesus in a stable, accompanied by animals, though this may not have been accurate.
During that time, houses typically consisted of two floors, wherein the ground floor served as a space for livestock as well. Consequently, the concept of a distinct stable, where Jesus could have been housed, did not exist.
There is a theory that suggests Jesus was born in a cave or grotto, which is where the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem now stands. These caves were commonly used as shelters by shepherds during the time period.
Source: (Grunge)
See also: Fascinating facts about Bethlehem
Mary and Joseph, known as the parents of Jesus, are truly significant characters in religious history. However, their personal lives remain a relative mystery. While it is acknowledged in Catholicism that Mary was a virgin when she conceived Jesus, which Joseph accepted, any other defining moments in their relationship are less well known. In this gallery, we explore the lives of Mary and Joseph, shedding light on their individual stories as well as their dedicated roles in the holy family.
Intrigued? Click on to expand what you know about these important figures in religious history.
How much do you really know about Mary and Joseph?
The mysterious holy couple who shaped history
LIFESTYLE Religion
Mary and Joseph, known as the parents of Jesus, are truly significant characters in religious history. However, their personal lives remain a relative mystery. While it is acknowledged in Catholicism that Mary was a virgin when she conceived Jesus, which Joseph accepted, any other defining moments in their relationship are less well known. In this gallery, we explore the lives of Mary and Joseph, shedding light on their individual stories as well as their dedicated roles in the holy family.
Intrigued? Click on to expand what you know about these important figures in religious history.