What does Matthew 1:5 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 1:5 details part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ by tracing his lineage back through historical figures who were significant in Hebrew scriptures.

The verse states, "And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;". Here, the verse mentions four individuals and their relationships:

• Salmon is said to have begotten Booz (Boaz), with Rachab (Rahab).
• Booz, with Ruth, begat Obed.
• Obed begat Jesse.

To "beget" in this context means to become the father of or to sire in a lineage.

The verse not only conveys the successive generations that lead to King David (Jesse is David's father) but also includes significant ancestresses – Rahab, a former Canaanite prostitute from Jericho who is credited with helping Israelite spies, and Ruth, a Moabite woman who showed great loyalty and fidelity.

Historical Context

The verse falls within the New Testament, in the Gospel of Matthew, which is one of the four canonical gospels. The Gospel of Matthew was written primarily for a Jewish audience, which is evident in the way it frequently references the Old Testament to assert Jesus' messianic credentials.

The genealogy presented in the beginning of Matthew is meant to establish Jesus’s rightful claim to the throne of David. This genealogy serves as one of the connections that the author of Matthew makes to portray Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah.

Salmon and Rahab lived around the time of Joshua and the fall of Jericho. Boaz and Ruth's story is set in the time of the Judges. These times were marked by significant transitions in Israel's history, from conquest to settlement in the land of Canaan.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, Matthew 1:5 offers an illustration of God's inclusive plan of redemption.

By including women like Rahab and Ruth, who were Gentiles, Matthew's genealogy underscores the universal scope of the Gospel.

There is also an emphasis on God's use of unexpected people and grace, as both women had plausible reasons to be considered outsiders or of low status.

Moreover, this verse can be seen as evidence of God's providence. Despite human failings and diverse backgrounds, God weaves the history and lives of individuals into a purposeful tapestry, culminating in the birth of Jesus.

Practical Applications

One practical application of this verse is the understanding that God can use all people, regardless of their background or past, to fulfill His purposes. This encourages inclusivity and offers hope for redemption and transformation.

Additionally, the lives of individuals like Rahab and Ruth can inspire believers to exhibit courage, faithfulness, and righteousness in their circumstances. Their stories encourage active faith and commitment to God's plan.

Cross-References

• Rahab's Story: Joshua 2:1-21; Joshua 6:17, 25; Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25.
• Ruth's Story: The Book of Ruth (Ruth 1-4).
• Genealogy and Prophecy Fulfilled: Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5; Romans 1:3; 2 Timothy 2:8.

Language Study

The genealogy in Matthew's Gospel is written in Greek.

Key Greek words in this verse include:

• "ἐγέννησεν" (egennēsen) - often translated as "begat", which means to give birth to, to be the father of.
• "Βόες" (Boes) - the Greek form of "Boaz".
• "Ῥαχάβ" (Rhachab) - the Greek form of "Rahab".
• "Ὠβήδ" (Ōbēd) - the Greek form of "Obed".
• "Ἰεσσαί" (Iessai) - the Greek form of "Jesse".

Analyzing the original language provides depth to the understanding of the text, especially since names often bore meanings that are lost in translation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Ancient cultures often kept genealogical records to assert claims to property, status, or rulership.

In the Hebrew Bible, genealogies were crucial for establishing lineage, particularly for priests and kings.

The inclusion of women and non-Israelites in genealogies is less common, but it does occur, as seen here in Matthew, emphasizing a broader, more inclusive heritage.

Comparatively, other ancient mythologies have genealogies of gods and heroes that serve to establish their importance and pedigree.

However, the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew stands apart in its historical grounding and theological intent.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse in question does not directly address scientific topics, but scientific understandings of genealogy and genetics have advanced our comprehension of human heritage.

Modern genealogical studies, facilitated by genetic testing, underscore the intricate and often surprising connections between individuals and populations.

However, the genealogies in the Bible serve more a theological and symbolic purpose than a strict genetic or historical record.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of Matthew 1:5:

• William Barclay notes the inclusivity and grace of God by including individuals like Rahab and Ruth in Jesus's genealogy.
• John Calvin comments on the providence of God in bringing Jesus from the line of David despite the moral failings in His ancestry.
• Contemporary scholars like N.T.

Wright and Craig S.

Keener focus on the importance of Jesus's Davidic lineage in understanding how first-century Jews would see His messianic claims.

These commentaries emphasize different aspects of the verse, from the redemptive inclusivity illustrated in God's plan to the fulfillment of messianic prophecies through the genealogy of Jesus.