James Martin SJ Recommends Book Claiming Joseph Was Jesus’ Biological Father
In an article on AmericaMagazine.org on 11 September, he discusses the book Boy Jesus by Joan Taylor. He says he read it "with great anticipation — and I am happy to say I was not let down".
He describes the book as "a model of careful scholarship that relies on old sources but breaks new ground".
James Martin continues his laude: “Taylor also advances a fascinating if unorthodox reading of the virgin birth. She suggests that people of the time who called Jesus ‘Son of David’ might have read the story of the Annunciation very differently from the standard interpretation today—while still leaving room for the miraculous. It was Joseph’s ‘seed’ that was implanted in Mary, so that Jesus could rightfully be called David’s heir.”
Taylor thinks "that Joseph is the actual father of Jesus, whose seed (of David) was miraculously implanted in Mary’s womb". James Martin adds that he "still" holds Catholic beliefs.
Father Martin’s résumé: "Boy Jesus is a significant contribution to the study of the historical Jesus. As a Bible nerd, I will say it was an engrossing, even fun read. Finally, as a believer, I will say that it was in many places consoling and moved me to prayer, as I came to know the Son of David even more deeply."
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