Thomistic Bible Study: Matthew 1 (Podcast)

Summary

This script offers an in-depth analysis of the first chapter of Matthew's Gospel through the perspective of St. Thomas Aquinas, highlighting the symbolic significance of the number 14 and the genealogy of Jesus Christ. It delves into the life of St. Thomas Aquinas, his sanctity, and wisdom, and explores the narrative of Joseph's dilemma, the angelic revelation, and the naming of Jesus. The script also addresses misconceptions about Mary's perpetual virginity and emphasizes the importance of St. Joseph as a model of authentic masculinity and fatherhood, encouraging devotion to him in the modern context.

Takeaways

• 😇 St. Thomas Aquinas is revered as one of the most intelligent individuals in history, second only to Jesus and Mary, and his insights on the Gospel are highly valued.
• 🏰 St. Thomas faced significant trials, including being kidnapped and tempted to break his vow of chastity, but his sanctity and wisdom allowed him to overcome these challenges.
• 🙏 Chastity is emphasized as a crucial virtue for pursuing wisdom and higher studies, as it helps elevate the mind to spiritual and intellectual matters.
• 📜 The first chapter of Matthew's Gospel is analyzed through the lens of St. Thomas Aquinas, focusing on the genealogy of Jesus Christ and its symbolic significance.
• 🔢 The number 14 is highlighted as significant in the genealogy, symbolizing the emphasis on David as the king and the Christ, with the repetition of 14 generations from Abraham to David, and from David to Jesus.
• 👑 The genealogy in Matthew's Gospel is contrasted with that in Luke's Gospel, showing different lineage due to Joseph's adoption, which is explained through Jewish law and St. Thomas's interpretation.
• 👶 The Annunciation to Joseph is discussed, emphasizing Joseph's humility and his role as the foster father of Jesus, chosen by God for his sanctity and grace.
• 🌟 Joseph's naming of Jesus is highlighted as a sign of his authority and the singular privilege granted to him, reflecting his unique role in the life of Jesus.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The script discusses the importance of understanding the genealogy and the symbolic language used in Matthew's Gospel, which is deeply rooted in Hebrew tradition and Jewish expectations.
• 🙏 The script concludes with a call to devotion to St. Joseph, emphasizing his role in restoring authentic masculinity and fatherhood, and the importance of his intercession in spiritual life.

Q & A

Who is St. Thomas Aquinas and why is he significant in this Bible study?

St. Thomas Aquinas is a renowned theologian and philosopher of the Catholic Church, known as the Angelic Doctor and the Common Doctor. He is significant in this Bible study because the analysis of Matthew's gospel is being conducted through his lens, highlighting his profound influence and authority in theological interpretation.

What is the significance of the number 14 in the genealogy of Jesus as presented in Matthew's gospel?

The number 14 is significant because it is symbolic and emphasizes the importance of David in the lineage of Jesus. In Hebrew numerology, the letters corresponding to David's name add up to 14, which is a way of emphasizing 'David, David, David' in a superlative form, indicating the importance of Jesus as the fulfillment of the Davidic line.

Why did St. Thomas Aquinas' family initially want him to become a Benedict monk rather than a Dominican?

St. Thomas Aquinas' family initially wanted him to become a Benedict monk because the Benedictines had more influence and were well-established and respected at the time. The Dominicans, on the other hand, were newer and their practice of begging for alms was considered shameful for royalty.

What is the explanation given for the different genealogies of Joseph in Matthew and Luke's gospels?

The different genealogies are explained by the fact that Joseph was adopted. In Matthew, Joseph's father is listed as Jacob, while in Luke, it is Heli. This is because Joseph's legal father (Heli) died without an heir, and his brother (Jacob) adopted Joseph to carry on the family name.

Why did Joseph initially plan to put Mary away quietly instead of having her stoned according to Jewish law for adultery?

There are three theories presented: 1) Joseph suspected Mary of adultery but wanted to deal with it privately out of mercy. 2) Joseph was bewildered because he knew Mary was pure but was also pregnant and couldn't reconcile these facts. 3) Joseph, out of reverence and humility, did not consider himself worthy to be the spouse of the mother of the Messiah and planned to step aside.

What is the theological significance of Joseph naming Jesus?

The act of naming signifies authority. By naming Jesus, Joseph exercises a unique authority over him, which is a singular privilege granted by God. This act underscores Joseph's role as the earthly father of Jesus and his unique position in the divine plan.

How does the script address the claim that Mary was not a perpetual virgin?

The script refutes this claim by explaining that the word 'until' in the phrase 'he knew her not until she brought forth her firstborn son' does not necessarily imply a change in state after the appointed time. It emphasizes that the birth of Christ was not brought about by Joseph, without insinuating anything about Mary's virginity afterward.

What is the importance of St. Joseph in the current cultural context, especially regarding fatherhood?

St. Joseph is seen as a model for authentic masculinity and fatherhood. In a time of crisis for these roles, devotion to St. Joseph is encouraged as a way to restore and heal the understanding of what it means to be a man and a father.

What is the significance of the 'Holy Holy Holy' in the Catholic Mass?

The repetition of 'Holy' three times in the Mass is a reflection of the Hebrew practice of emphasizing the superlative by repeating a word three times, hearkening back to the church's Jewish roots and emphasizing the supreme holiness of God.

Why is the story of St. Thomas Aquinas chasing a prostitute with a burning brand significant?

The story illustrates St. Thomas Aquinas' commitment to chastity and his resistance to temptation. It is a testament to his sanctity and the virtue of perfect chastity, which is considered essential for the pursuit of wisdom and higher studies.