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On Chickens, Eggs, and the Birthplace of Jesus

In: Journal for the Study of the Historical Jesus
Author:
Jonathan Rowlands St. Mellitus College, Nottingham, UK

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Online Publication Date:
25 Nov 2022
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Abstract

In this article, the author challenges the consensus surrounding Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. This consensus claims the Bethlehem birth was a fabrication posited as messianic fulfilment of Micah 5.2. First, the author summarises the majority position on the issue. Second, the author problematises the notion that there was an expectation regarding Bethlehem as messianic birthplace. Third, the author claims the available evidence might equally suggest Jesus was born in Bethlehem, with Micah 5.2 reinterpreted in light of this. As such, the author calls for renewed discussion about Jesus’ birthplace, and the nature of scholarly argumentation surrounding the issue.

Title:
On Chickens, Eggs, and the Birthplace of Jesus
Article Type:
Research Article
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1163/17455197-bja10012
Language:
English
Pages:
218–238
Keywords:
Bethlehem; birth narratives; Luke; Matthew; messianism; Micah
In:
Journal for the Study of the Historical Jesus
In:
Volume 20: Issue 3
Publisher:
Brill
E-ISSN:
1745-5197
Print ISSN:
1476-8690
Subjects:
New Testament & Early Christian Writings, Biblical Studies, Religion in Antiquity, Religious Studies, Ancient History, Classical Studies

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