joseph

The Secret Message Lost in Translation

The Secret Message Lost in Translation

The Secret Message Lost in Translation While attending the University of Texas in Austin in 1974, I met Rabbi Sholom Ber Alperowitz. This very kind and wise rabbi changed my life. The first Torah lesson I heard from Rabbi Alperowitz was from this week’s Torah portion, Miketz (Genesis 41:1- 44:17). We examined Joseph’s interpretation of Pharoah’s dreams and Joseph’s appointment to a position of leadership in the Egyptian government. As we explored this incident, I witnessed the importance of
Torah portion Miketz joseph
Zalman Kravitz

Zalman Kravitz
Luke 2:4,5 -Was Mary a descendant of David?

Luke 2:4,5 -Was Mary a descendant of David?

According to the author of Luke, Joseph came to Bethlehem "because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register, along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child" (Luke 2:4-5). Does this verse show that Mary was a descendant of David? Answer: There is nothing in these verses to show that Joseph and Mary were both of Davidic ancestry and, therefore, going to the same town to register. As his future spouse, one might stretch credulity to the maximum and presume that M
bethlehem david
Zalman Kravitz

Zalman Kravitz
Who's genealogy is given by Luke?

Who's genealogy is given by Luke?

Doesn't it make sense to say that the Gospel of Luke gives Mary's  genealogy, since it would be nonsense to go through Joseph's line if he is not the biological father of Jesus? It should be noted that the Gospel of Matthew sets the precedent for presenting a genealogy of Jesus that goes through Joseph. Incidentally, this genealogy goes through a line (Jehoiakim) that is disqualified for kingship. Therefore, it is not surprising that Luke's genealogical list also gives a genealogy (much differe
david genealogy
Zalman Kravitz

Zalman Kravitz