Are you interested in learning more about the historical and cultural context of the life and teachings of Yeshua of Nazareth, also known as Jesus Christ? Do you want to explore the differences and similarities between the Hebrew and Greek versions of the Gospel of Matthew, one of the earliest and most influential sources of information about Yeshua? If so, you might want to check out the book "The Hebrew Yeshua Vs. The Greek Jesus" by Nehemia Gordon, a former Pharisee, Dead Sea Scrolls scholar and Semitic language expert.
In this book, Gordon examines an ancient Hebrew manuscript of Matthew that was long hidden away in the archives of Jewish scribes. He compares it with the more familiar Greek text of Matthew, from which most modern translations of the New Testament are derived. He argues that the Hebrew version preserves a more authentic and original portrait of Yeshua, who was raised in an observant Jewish family in a culture where the Torah (the five books of Moses) was the national constitution. Gordon claims that the Greek version, on the other hand, depicts "another Jesus" who is more aligned with the Gentile worldview and theology that emerged later in the history of Christianity.
One of the main points of contention that Gordon addresses is the interpretation of Matthew 23:2-3, where Yeshua says: "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not." (KJV) Gordon argues that the Hebrew version of this verse has a different meaning than the Greek version, and that it reveals Yeshua's true attitude towards the Pharisees and their traditions. According to Gordon, the Hebrew version reads: "The scribes and Pharisees sit upon Moses' seat. Therefore all that he says to you diligently do but according to their reforms (takanot) and their precedents (ma'asim) do not do because they talk but do not do." (pg. 13)
Gordon explains that the terms "reforms" (takanot) and "precedents" (ma'asim) refer to specific types of rabbinic legislation that were added to the Torah by the Pharisees. He claims that these were man-made rules that often contradicted or nullified the commandments of God. He gives several examples of such rules, such as forbidding people from eating chicken with milk (even though the Torah only prohibits eating meat with milk), or requiring people to wash their hands before eating bread (even though the Torah only requires washing after touching something unclean). Gordon contends that Yeshua was not telling his followers to obey everything that the Pharisees taught, but rather to follow only what Moses taught in the Torah. He also accuses the Pharisees of being hypocrites who did not practice what they preached.
Gordon's book is an intriguing and provocative exploration of the ancient Hebrew text of Matthew and its implications for understanding Yeshua and his message. It challenges many assumptions and traditions that have shaped Western Christianity for centuries. It also invites readers to reconsider their own relationship with God and his word. Whether you agree or disagree with Gordon's conclusions, you will find his book to be a stimulating and informative read.
If you want to read "The Hebrew Yeshua Vs. The Greek Jesus" by Nehemia Gordon, you can find it in PDF format online by searching on Bing. You can also buy it in paperback or Kindle edition on Amazon. You can also read some reviews and ratings from other readers on Goodreads.