From: Timster132@aol.com
Date: Mon Jan 29 1996 - 23:12:11 EST
Fellow Hellaphiles:
I was wondering if anyone could shed some light on the meaning of a phrase
in Matt 1:29. I was preaching this text back in advent, and was trying to
understand exactly what it was that Joseph was intending to do.
The text says that Joseph was MH QELWN AUTHN PARADEIGMATISAI, EBOULHQH
LAQRA APOLUSAI AUTH.
The word PARADEIGMATISAI (aorist infinitve) seems clear enough. He
doesn't want to make a (negative) public example of her (ie, public scorn or
humiliation).
But what does LAQRA APOLOUSAI AUTH mean? Is it a legal term which simply
signifies that he will "unbind" or dissolve the marriage contract privately?
Does it carry the connotations of "putting her away quietly"? Does it mean
he is putting her out on the street?
I think Joseph being a DIKAIOS doesn't necessarily mean he is being
merciful in what he is doing. It could mean (esp. here in Matt) that he was
determined to follow the law.
Any cultural insights you have, as well as legal and linguistic ones,
would be helpful.
Thanks!
Tim Staker, pastor
Poseyville Christian Church
Poseyville, IN USA
Timster132@aol.com
http://home.aol.com/Timster132
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