What does Matthew 22:24 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 22:24 presents a scenario that the Sadducees, a Jewish sect, posit to Jesus.

They reference the law of levirate marriage, which is an ordinance given by Moses in Deuteronomy 25:5-6.

The literal meaning of the verse is a direct citation of this law, which commands that if a man dies without having children, his brother is obligated to marry the widow and produce offspring who will carry on the deceased brother's name.

The deeper meaning here includes a test of Jesus' understanding of the law and the resurrection, a topic the Sadducees notoriously denied.

The Sadducees brought up this scenario to challenge Jesus on the concept of resurrection by presenting a hypothetical case that they believed would make the idea seem ridiculous.

Historical Context

At the time of Jesus, Jewish society was governed by a combination of Roman law and Jewish religious law, or halakha.

The Sadducees were a sect that held significant power, particularly in the Temple in Jerusalem.

They were known for their literal interpretation of the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament) and their denial of the resurrection, angels, and spirits.

The historical context of this question is essential because the Sadducees are using the levirate marriage law to try to trap Jesus into an answer that would either undermine the resurrection or discredit him in the eyes of the people who followed the law closely.

Theological Insights

There are several theological viewpoints surrounding this verse.

From the perspective of the Sadducees, there is a denial of any afterlife or resurrection.

From the Pharisees' standpoint, which Jesus more closely aligns with, there is a belief in the resurrection.

For Christians, this verse is one of several where Jesus affirms the reality of resurrection and life after death.

Furthermore, Jesus' response to the Sadducees (which occurs in the verses following Matthew 22:24) emphasizes that eternal life will be different from earthly life and that earthly institutions such as marriage will not apply in the same way in the resurrection.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, this verse prompts modern readers to consider the implications of life after death and how it may influence our lives and actions in the present.

While the specifics of levirate marriage do not apply to most contemporary societies, the idea of fulfilling familial and social obligations persists, as does the consideration of how customs may or may not have eternal significance.

Additionally, facing challenging questions about one's faith, much like Jesus did, is a common experience for many believers. Reflection on this passage can encourage individuals to seek greater understanding and thoughtful responses to difficult theological questions.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 25:5-6: "If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her."
• Matthew 22:28-30: "Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her.

Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.

For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven."

• Genesis 38:8: "And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother."

Language Study

The phrase "raise up seed unto his brother" has significant connotations. In the original Greek text, the word for "raise up" (ἀναστήσει, anastesei) can mean to "cause to rise" or "resurrect," which has a dual meaning in the context of raising children and the concept of resurrection.

The word "seed" refers to offspring or descendants, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in Jewish culture.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Levirate marriage is also found in other ancient cultures, like the Hittites and later on in Islamic law in some interpretations. The practice aims to ensure the continuation of a family line and provide support for widows. In some cultures, it was a way of keeping property within the family.

In many religions, there are beliefs about life after death, though they vary widely. The Sadducees' denial of the resurrection sets them apart from other contemporary religious groups, like the Pharisees, who did believe in an afterlife.

Scientific Perspectives

While the main context of this verse is theological, scientific perspectives on life after death generally do not support the concept of resurrection. Modern scientific understanding is that life terminates at death, and there is no empirical evidence for an afterlife.

However, some researchers in psychology and cognitive science study beliefs about the afterlife as aspects of human culture and cognition.

Commentaries

Different biblical scholars and theologians offer varied interpretations of this verse:

• Some see this as a demonstration of Jesus' superior knowledge of Scripture and his ability to refute the Sadducees' challenge.
• Others focus on the levirate marriage's role in society and the historical understanding of its practice.
• Many commentaries discuss the Sadducees' intention to trap Jesus and highlight this interaction as a clash between different schools of Jewish thought at the time.
• Some modern commentators also consider the gender dynamics of the levirate marriage and its effects on the widow in such arrangements.

In essence, the verse is rich in cultural, historical, and theological layers, and commentators continue to explore its implications for understanding Jesus' teachings and the society in which he lived.