View source for Investigate whether elements were omitted or adjusted in later Gospels to accommodate a Greek audience’s lack of Hebrew background (e.g., word formations, symbolic interpretations)

The Gospel writers tailored their accounts to resonate with diverse audiences, including those unfamiliar with Hebrew traditions. This cultural adaptation is evident in the way certain elements were adjusted or omitted to make the message of Jesus more accessible to Greek readers.

Translation and Language Adaptation

The Gospels were composed in Greek, the lingua franca of the Eastern Mediterranean, to reach a broad audience. This necessitated translating Hebrew and Aramaic terms into Greek, sometimes leading to the omission of culturally specific Hebrew idioms that might confuse non-Hebrew readers. For instance, Hebrew expressions deeply rooted in Jewish culture were often replaced with more universally understood Greek phrases to ensure clarity.

Explanation of Jewish Customs

To accommodate readers lacking a Hebrew background, the Gospel writers occasionally provided explanations for Jewish customs and terms. In the Gospel of Mark, for example, Jewish purification rituals are described in detail:

    "For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly, holding to the tradition of the elders." (Mark 7:3)

Such explanations were likely included to help Greek readers understand practices unfamiliar to them.

Genealogical Adjustments

The genealogies of Jesus presented in the Gospels also reflect sensitivity to the audience's background. Matthew traces Jesus' lineage to Abraham, emphasizing his Jewish heritage to appeal to a Jewish audience. In contrast, Luke extends the genealogy back to Adam, the progenitor of all humanity, underscoring the universal significance of Jesus and making the narrative more inclusive for Gentile readers.

Use of Septuagint Quotations

The Gospel writers frequently quoted the Septuagint, the Greek translation of Hebrew Scriptures, rather than the Hebrew texts. This choice made scriptural references more accessible to Greek-speaking audiences. However, nuances present in the original Hebrew were sometimes lost or altered in translation, which could lead to different interpretations.

Omission of Aramaic Terms

In some instances, Aramaic terms are included but immediately translated for the reader. For example, in Mark 5:41, Jesus' words are presented:

    "Taking her by the hand he said to her, 'Talitha cumi,' which means, 'Little girl, I say to you, arise.'"

This practice ensures that readers without knowledge of Aramaic can understand the narrative without confusion.

Emphasis on Universal Themes

The Gospel of Luke, in particular, emphasizes themes that would resonate with a Greek audience, such as the portrayal of Jesus as a philosopher-teacher and a focus on moral and ethical teachings. This approach made the message of Jesus more relatable to those familiar with Greek philosophical traditions.

Conclusion

The Gospel writers demonstrated cultural sensitivity by adjusting certain elements of their narratives to accommodate Greek audiences unfamiliar with Hebrew traditions. Through careful translation, explanation of customs, and emphasis on universal themes, they sought to convey the message of Jesus in a way that transcended cultural boundaries, ensuring its relevance and accessibility to a diverse readership.