Today it is the custom of the Ashkenazim to equip Torah scrolls with wooden handles called “Trees of Life.” It is often assumed that this also was the practice in Jesus’ time. Professor Safrai sets the record straight.
Sabbath Breakers?
Jesus’ observance of the commandments has been a topic of vigorous scholarly debate. However, when the Synoptic Gospels are carefully examined, one sees that Jesus never violated written or oral Torahs. But did his disciples?
Was Jesus a Rabbi?
It was only after 70 A.D. that רַבִּי (rabi) became a formal title for a teacher, and thus cannot correctly be applied to Jesus.
The Queen of Teman
Why didn’t Jesus say “Queen of Sheba,” which is found in the Bible, instead of “Queen of the South”?
Was Jesus a Confirmed Bachelor?
Jesus still relatively young when he was crucified. His death may have come before he had a chance to marry.