Unveiling the Original Hebrew Matthew: A Journey Through Time and Truth

The Gospel of Matthew, a cornerstone of Christian belief, has a fascinating history that deserves a closer examination. Often read in Greek, many readers might be unaware that the original version was in Hebrew. This article delves into the importance of understanding Matthew's Gospel in its original language and highlights some of the essential insights one might glean from this rare perspective.

The Truth Behind the Translation

Many people are familiar with the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament, but few realize that it was originally written in Hebrew, not Greek. This fact is often overlooked in contemporary Christian practice. The Greek version, which is the one predominantly used today, presents different nuances and interpretations compared to the original Hebrew text. The reason behind this mistranslation could be attributed to the early church's desire to broaden its reach and spread the message to a wider audience beyond the Jewish community.

The Author's Identity and Language

The author of Matthew's Gospel is often thought to be Matthew, a disciple of Jesus who was originally named Matityahu (translated as Matthew in English). He was a Yahudi (Jew), not a Greek or English person. The language used in his original work was Aramaic, not Greek. This detail is often glossed over, as the Greek version has become the standard text. However, understanding the original language can provide deeper insights into the cultural and religious context of the time.

Early Church Fathers and the Apostolic Documents

Interestingly, many of the earliest Church Fathers insisted that Matthew first wrote his gospel in Hebrew. One notable figure is Papias, a bishop from the 1st and 2nd centuries. Papias mentioned that before any of the Gospels, there was a list of sayings of Jesus in Hebrew compiled by Matthew. According to Papias, this Hebrew List of sayings was then translated into various languages, including Greek and Latin. Careful scholars in the 19th century recognized that both Luke's Gospel and Matthew's Gospel used the same list of sayings, which they referred to as "Q."

It's important to note that Papias didn't say that Matthew first wrote his Gospel in Hebrew, but rather that he compiled a list of sayings. These sayings were then translated into other languages. Additionally, there are fragments from the lost Gospel of the Hebrews, which were used in the Diatessaron, a harmonized gospel compiled by Tatian, a 2nd-century Christian.

The Significance of the Original Hebrew Version

Reading Matthew's Gospel in its original Hebrew version can provide profound insights into its message and teachings. The figurative truths in the Old Testament are crucial for a full understanding of the New Testament. Without a complete grasp of the Old Testament's figurative meanings, one may miss key aspects of Christian doctrine.

The teachings in Matthew's Gospel are timeless, transcending the passing of time. They offer guidance and wisdom that is relevant to all believers, regardless of the era. Understanding these teachings through their original context can reveal the spiritual and cultural nuances that have been lost in subsequent translations.

Following the majority teachings without a deeper understanding can lead to a shallow faith that may not provide the depth and richness of spiritual growth. True knowledge and understanding of God and the truth can lead to a more meaningful and authentic faith.

Conclusion

Reconnecting with the original Hebrew version of Matthew's Gospel offers a valuable opportunity to deepen one's faith and understanding of Christian teachings. By embracing the language and context in which these texts were originally written, readers can gain a fresh perspective that enriches their spiritual journey. This journey through time and truth is essential for a fully developed Christian faith.