Introduction

Understanding the language of Jesus is crucial for interpreting His teachings and the message of the New Testament. Jesus primarily spoke Aramaic, a Semitic language common among the Jewish people in Palestine during the first century. However, the New Testament was written in Greek, the lingua franca of the Eastern Mediterranean at the time. This entry explores the linguistic context of Jesus' ministry and the implications for biblical interpretation.

Aramaic: The Spoken Language of Jesus

Aramaic was the everyday language of the Jewish people in Judea and Galilee. It was the language Jesus used in His daily interactions and teachings. Several Aramaic phrases are preserved in the New Testament, providing a glimpse into His spoken words. For instance, in Mark 5:41, Jesus raises Jairus' daughter with the words, "Talitha koum," meaning "Little girl, I say to you, get up!" . Similarly, on the cross, Jesus cries out, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which translates to "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Mark 15:34).

Greek: The Language of the New Testament

While Jesus spoke Aramaic, the New Testament authors wrote in Greek to reach a broader audience. Greek was widely spoken across the Roman Empire, facilitating the spread of the Gospel. The use of Greek allowed the message of Jesus to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, reaching both Jews and Gentiles. The Greek text of the New Testament captures the essence of Jesus' teachings, even though it is a translation from His original Aramaic expressions.

Hebrew: The Liturgical Language

Hebrew was the language of Jewish religious texts and liturgy. Jesus, being a devout Jew, would have been familiar with Hebrew, especially in the context of synagogue readings and discussions. The Hebrew Scriptures, known as the Tanakh, were central to His teachings. Jesus often quoted from the Hebrew Scriptures, as seen in His use of Isaiah 61:1-2 in Luke 4:18-19 , where He declares the fulfillment of prophecy.

Implications for Interpretation

Understanding the linguistic context of Jesus' words is essential for accurate biblical interpretation. Recognizing the nuances of Aramaic expressions and their Greek translations can shed light on the meaning of His teachings. For example, the Aramaic term "Abba," used by Jesus in prayer (Mark 14:36), conveys a deep sense of intimacy and trust, often translated as "Father" but carrying the connotation of "Daddy" or "Papa."

Additionally, Jesus' use of parables and idiomatic expressions reflects the cultural and linguistic environment of first-century Palestine. Interpreters must consider these factors to grasp the full impact of His message. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), for instance, challenges cultural prejudices and emphasizes the universal call to love one's neighbor.

Conclusion

Understanding the language of Jesus involves recognizing the interplay between Aramaic, Greek, and Hebrew. This linguistic awareness enriches our comprehension of His teachings and the New Testament as a whole. By appreciating the original context and language, believers can gain deeper insights into the life and message of Jesus Christ.