Women in Matthew’s Genealogy
Membership in a tribe was important back then, which is why people knew their genealogy. It didn’t have to be strictly biological (the main interest of genealogies today). The genealogy simply showed that a person had roots in a particular tribe and was accepted as a member.
Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus mentions five women, most unusual back when one’s lineage was traced solely through the father. The women are:
• Tamar: Judah, one of the sons of Jacob, married Tamar after she pretended that she was a prostitute.
• Rahab: She had been a prostitute in Jericho, and it was only through her help that Israel conquered that city.
• Ruth: Her marriage with Boaz started as an illicit relationship. Their son became the father of Jesse, who was the father of David…the beginning of the “House of David” from which the Messiah was to be born.
• Bathsheba: While her husband was away in battle, David commited adultery with her, and Solomon was born.
• Mary: She was found to be with child before her marriage to Joseph was finalized.
Feast of St. Andrew
Today is the feast of St. Andrew the apostle. He is regarded as the patron of Scotland and Russia.
Oops, #9 should have said: Tuesday.