28. Jesus and the Jewish Community (Jewish History Lab)

[@ted356]

As a Christian I find your lectures very interesting and respectful. I have learned much about the Jewish perspective and great amounts of history. Thank you and keep up the good work!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Enjoy in good health!

[@Nderitu.G]

people this man is not the standard of historical truth this is his viewpoint, He doesn't have to agree with what you agree with. But remember facts will be facts. do not get angry Henry has every right to be wrong and so do you.

[@jackson76724]

A Christian listener also. Great historical analysis here. Irish Catholic background - but there is a family legend of a Spanish Jewess (Rebecca) marrying into the family and we have a very old photo of Great Uncle Josh wearing a skull cap. If you ever have a spare moment an episode on the Jewish community in Ireland would be interesting. Thanks again for your fantastic uploads.

[@GigiAbbi-cu9qn]

@@jackson76724 sounds fascinating would love to see that too

[@nickbrod3696]

Z

[@franciscorodriguez9714]

I'm a Christian and I appreciate these lectures. They are very interesting and present a perspective we do not usually get. Thank you for your work.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

I'm so glad that you enjoy the lectures!

[@janamills800]

As a Christian, I was brought up to always respect and love the Jewish people. Thank you for your interesting lectures and your respect to my faith. Much appreciated!

[@alfapaul5593]

Were also brought up to love Muslims ?

[@Generate4]

As an Orthodox Jew you have given a fair and balanced description of the topic at hand. Thank you.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you.

[@shemayisroelyeshuaahuvi654]

Baruch haShem

[@NoName-en3vl]

@stroncal We do know hes real everyone does. Jewish and Roman historians from Jesus time wrote about him. I would like to know what/who do you worship as a pagan and why? How/why did you become a pagan and do you know other pagans? Is there like a pagan temple? What do you do for worship as a pagan? Im very curious about that because i didnt realize people are out there like you. I know there are witches and warlocks is that what you mean when you say your pagan? Please explain.

[@thekriskokid]

@stroncal As an Orthodox student of truth, I'd recommend that you don't let the facts get in the way of your opinions!

[@MrJoeybabe25]

As a secular Jew here in Beit Shemesh Israel, I appreciate a really Jewish approach to this subject. I live in an orthodox community (Ramat Beit Shemesh [A]) where Jesus is never discussed or when the subject does arise he is dismissed out of hand. This Jew, who changed the world with his death, deserves better, and fairer scrutiny by orthodox scholars. Thank you.

[@mzstompyfeet8634]

I’m a Catholic, and I enjoy watching your videos. I have a great respect for the Jews, and you. Thank you for your videos, as I believe to get honest answers about the Judaism ✡️ beliefs.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you find them useful!

[@FelonyVideos]

I'm really glad to see the comments still open!

[@GrannyLinn]

I was raised Christian and had so many questions no one could answer. I’m so glad I found your page. Thank you for your work.

[@natanecohen8847]

Rabi Tovia singer

[@GrannyLinn]

@@natanecohen8847thanks

[@samuelmithran5586]

​@@natanecohen8847 lol... Mostly ignorant

[@dannybaseball2444]

I started scrolling through the comments as soon as Dr Abramson cautioned the viewer. Found, as I fully expected, appreciative and respectful Christians expressing gratitude for the content. Christians feel rooted friendship with Jews especially in times of crisis, as now with the Gaza Strip atrocities. God bless and protect Israel.

[@dr.janusztanas2956]

The depth of your knowledge, the easiness of sharing is highly respected. This should be compulsory not only for the religiously astute individuals but our global society in general. Thank you Professor Abramson.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Wow, thank you for your very kind words Dr. Tanas! I appreciate your feedback and I'm very glad that you enjoyed the class.

[@karennorris7880]

I'm a Roman Catholic woman who felt transformed when I prayed at the wailing wall in Jerusalem. It was one of the most powerful experiences of my life. I'm very happy to know there is so much serious Jewish scholarship regarding the person of Jesus. I'm very glad to know he's not dismissed out of hand. I ordered the Jewish Annotated New Testament published by the Oxford University Press that you recommended. I look forward to reading it. Thank you for the recommendation and your teaching.

[@jstdr4774]

As a Christian and with many Jewish friend I find your lectures honest and excellent. God bless you!

[@yugoreino457]

As a follower of Jesus and his teachings, I thank you for the lecture. I appreciated your candor and the clarity of your lecture! I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you!

[@norbertboukoro5588]

As a Christian, I find your exposition balanced and helpful, particularly while highlighting the issues. Well done!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you found it useful!

[@antochancyriac8096]

Sir. I'm a Catholic from Kerala, India. I was very eager to know about the Jewish people and their history,. going through the Old Testament.Watching your lectures on the history of Jewish people , Jesusand early Christianity is cent percent trustworthy and informative. Thanks for the valuable description .May the Almighty God bless you .

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Same to you! Thank you.

[@willemmyers217]

I’m currently in the process of converting to Judaism and your lectures always teach me so much about not only history, but also about Judaism today. Such an incredibly rich story. You make me excited to be Jewish.

[@Mahatmajenkins]

It's gonna be painful

[@guul4onlf]

​@Mahatmajenkins What you mean and how painful

[@CrypticCocktails]

Why convert? B'neh Noach is the way to go! You can still have bacon cheeseburgers and be connected to Ha'Shem haha

[@realdealdaveabramyk9005]

Dr. Abramson, as a Christian I appreciate that you do not ignore this part of history. I appreciate your perspective and I very much enjoy your content.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you find it useful!

[@realdealdaveabramyk9005]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD as well your absolutely right about the theology behind Christ’s crucifixion. It’s absolutely horrific what people have done to the Jews throughout history based on corrupting the Christian texts. An authentic Christian looks more like corrie ten boom.

[@greyhoundlovesme]

I am personally Messianic. I love your lectures. Thank you, sir. You are a gift. Baruch Ha Shem.

[@amyk6403]

Thank you, Lord, for insomnia. I have learned so much here tonight!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Any time!

[@jerrybaird2059]

Outstanding presentation! I am of Christian background and a fairly serious student of both Christianity and Judaism-at my age (79) it’s a good idea to get one’s thoughts in order. I’ve read Josephus and as much serious and scholarly commentary as I can find time for. Your contributions are most welcome!

[@Destruct-cf3zi]

Thank you. It's so refreshing to here this. I enjoy listening to Rabbi's explain the bible. There are times when I like to here Jewish perspectives on Christianity but it seems like sometimes it's too defensive or sometimes aggressive. You seem so pleasant and level headed. Just wanted to thank you

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

You are welcome. I'm not a Rabbi, just a regular guy.

[@TheJewishCatholic]

This was great. We need more Christian/Jewish dialogue.

[@michaelsaxton7966]

I'm an Atheist, and I find your lectures fascinating. I have been recently studying 2nd Temple Judaism up to Bar Kochba and, aside from the sage series books for the early Rabbi's, you are my go to source for Jewish History. I especially appreciate your ability to set bias aside and provide historical information. You are an amazing man and I wish you success and happiness.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Hey, thanks very much for these kind words! I wish you the same.

[@peterk.4266]

Dear Dr. Abramson, where's the opening joke? Keep up good work, and no matter what, please don't turn off those comments. Respectfully, Polish Catholic:)

[@petermaroussis5740]

jesus

[@alexanderhuzau6850]

Here I help Dr.Abramson with the opening joke: Moses comes down the mountain, the excited crowd ask him about the achievements. - I have two news, a good and a bad one - so Moses. - tell us the good one first! - negociated down to ten.. - and the bad one? - 'don't commit adultery' is still in...

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks, Peter K! Market research indicates the jokes work great on a live audience, not so much with the internet viewers. So, not so many jokes. Especially not in this lecture!

[@peterk.4266]

@@alexanderhuzau6850 lol

[@jeffczermanski2993]

I'm a fan of the jokes also. I get why they aren't in some videos. I like them mostly because Dr. Abramson seems to get a kick out of them.

[@kevinh3989]

You sir are so brilliant and correct . I would love to sit down and talk for a afternoon. You are so educated on your subjects and I know I could learn so much in sharing with you.

[@robertlipscomb3040]

From a Christian who is 28 videos deep in this series, thank you for your scholarship and this wonderful history series. Your videos have always been well done and even-handed. Anyone who crumbles in the face of a contray opinion should probably avoid all religious studies and just go somewhere to be indoctrinated.

[@boldfaith777]

As a Christian I’m so happy to find your videos. For a Christian the entire Bible points to Yeshua but I see many American Christians conveniently or mindlessly forgetting He is Jewish. In so many churches the Mosaic Law is negated; even Paul stated “the Law is holy...” (Romans 7:12) as an expression of G-d’s righteousness. It is refreshing and enlightening to hear you speak to the Law during His ministry. Truly appreciate your knowledge and wisdom.

[@lvgdeadgrl]

So good! Thank you Dr. Abramson. Shavua tov 😊

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@geoffrobinson7293]

You present this discussion very well. Thank you. I appreciate you tact and kindness in presenting history. My background is the Christian faith, but over the years of studying Torah, Tanach, Jewish history and Christian history, my perspective has changed. I hope there are Christians that will listen to your lecture with an open mind and realize that the standard concept of "Christian History"including interpretation of the Tanach and Judaism , is typically taught with an unfortunate biased perspective. It is important to look at multiple perspectives of history, realizing biases before choosing your own perspective.

[@EdHird]

As an Anglican pastor for forty years, I share your love of history as it relates to Israel and its offspring, Christianity. I admire your chutzpah in looking at Jesus/Yeshua in the context of the 1st century Jewish community. Thank you for clearly showing how the Jews are not to blame for Jesus' death. We all are responsible, and we all potentially benefit. Christians have not replaced Israel, but rather been grafted in. I look forward to more of your video postings.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you for the kind words; glad you enjoyed the video!

[@rogerlephoque3704]

Dr. Abramson, I have become an avid follower of your lectures and consider that you have done much to explain and promote a better understanding and mutual respect of the nexus that exists between all Abrahamic faiths and peoples, just as Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks of Blessed Memory did until his untimely passing.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Wow, what a comparison! I am flattered. Big fan of Rabbi Sacks זצ׳׳ל.

[@HouseofBread]

Love your lectures Dr. Abramson and your light shines through. Thank you for all that you do. Shalom!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you like them! You are also the first person I've ever encountered with the name חפצי-בה, how nice!

[@HouseofBread]

☺ Thank you Dr.@@HenryAbramsonPhD!

[@nathanbeard3561]

Thank you for your work! You did a fantastic job navigating the controversial topics within the larger conversation of Judaism/Christianity. As a disciple of Jesus I wanted to say I really appreciate all the work you do. It is extremely important for followers of Jesus to understand their place within the family of God. My wish is that through your work, as well as the work of other contemporary teachers/rabbis, historians, and theologians, we can begin to heal the rift caused by our ancestors that has led us to the point we are at now with this complete separation of the “church” and “synagogue”.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you found the lecture useful!

[@elkiness]

:-) I've been thanked so many times now for watching! My turn to gratefully thank you. This is a rough time in my life--personally (recently widowed) and a hard time in the world. (There must be relatives of mine in Ukraine, and here in Israel, we're very aware of what is happening; I hope we'll do a good and compassionate job of receiving any refugees here.) So--coming to your mini lectures (I usually see 2 or 3) is such a pleasure, and I look forward to the other courses and videos I see on your page.

[@janishart5128]

My sincere condolences on the loss of your dear husband, Elinore. May God bless and guide you as you continue the mourning process. .

[@elkiness]

@@janishart5128 Thank you so much. One thing I've learned during this time--I never expected the heartfelt sympathy from strangers, and help from neighbors I barely knew. A well of kindness exists. 🙂

[@janishart5128]

@@elkiness: Yes, kindness is out there, although in today's world, it's not as apparent as it used to be! Hang in there Elinore, and just take things one day at a time! 🤗

[@TheMJT515]

I appreciate your scholarship and professionalism in explaining something that is not typically looked upon kindly in Judaism.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you!

[@topcopy98]

Christianity is fine with Jews. We only have a problem when you try to convert us. That’s where we draw the line.

[@TheMJT515]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD You are welcome! I am loving your videos.

[@TheMJT515]

@@topcopy98 They don't actively try to convert anybody. In fact they wholly discourage people from converting.

[@topcopy98]

@@TheMJT515 That's idiotic. Or you don't understand English. Take your pick

[@KA4383T]

I love your lecture. I hope you continue good health, wealth and happiness.

[@papabreading7294]

So very excellent! I will listen to this again and again!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you!

[@peterkobs511]

Thank you, Dr. Abramson! As a Christian, I find your videos utterly fascinating and very instructive. Despite our often fraught history, your historical presentations demonstrate our COMMON yearning for the divine...and our ever-growing need for mutual understanding. Bravo from Northern Michigan!

[@TrekRoadbiker]

thank you sir, for your lectures. I just found your KZbin channel and look forward to watching the whole series.

[@jeffreysilverman3633]

Fascinating as always. I enjoy your talks very much.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Many thanks!

[@jeffokkonen3149]

A fascinating and informative discourse. I have enjoyed several of your presentations in this series. Your delivery balances a deep knowledge with an engaging style . I am looking forward to the publication of your new book series.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you very much!

[@historicalminds6812]

Never understood why the fact that Jesus was a Jew was such a problem for later Christianity.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

We will probably touch on this question next semester.

[@MrChi31]

@Betty damota you need help. Please see a professional.

[@shlomicohen2341]

The Gentiles wanted to steal our Messiah and regardless if one accepts His claim to Messiahship we Jews have to reclaim Him and place Him back in His Jewish cultural setting. After all, He is one of our own.

[@shlomicohen2341]

@Eli Parnez You can believe as you wish but I know He is our Messiah.

[@shlomicohen2341]

@Eli Parnez Sir, with all due respect, you are simply regurgitating out what others have said in your presence. Yeshua, Melech Mashiach, didn't fulfil Messianic prophecies according to modern Judaism. Tell me, what makes a prophercy Messianic in nature? The Lubavitch accept their Rebbe as Messiah but me and my people who come to faith in Yeshua we are scorned and rejected by our own. You don't accept Him there is nothing I can do about that but I do please don't project your anger and insecurity onto me.

[@a.t.6322]

One should not worry that Dr. Abramson will engage in polemics here. As a Christian I find him to be fair, balanced and respectful in his treatment of the life of Jesus of Nazareth.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you!

[@DS-ll5fn]

Thank You so much for this teachings. I like to listen to you! God bless you

[@alcoholfree6381]

I was raised Catholic, spent a couple decades in the Protestant world before returning to the Catholic Church. I was an Altar Boy until age 18. I consider myself a Christian and by that I mean I follow Jesus’s teachings. I basically follow the “two rules of Jesus”: Love the Lord, your God, with all you have and love your neighbor as yourself. I’m home bound due to health and don’t go to Church. I’ve watched most of your great videos. I actually looked up the following question after watching about ten hours of your teaching on Google: “Can I be both a Christian and a Jewish person?” It seems possible. I know little so I study a lot. Thanks for your teaching. “Today I see in a glass darkly” but one day, when I’m in Heaven with God, everything will be revealed! I support Israel 1,000% and support the Jewish people, the Chosen People of God. A friend of mine has been trying to antagonize me by presenting articles and videos supporting Hamas, the Palestinians, and the Moslems; I answer all of these silly assertions and say something like: I’m totally behind Jewish people and against all terrorists. God is blessing you!

[@PaulHewsonPhD]

So interesting, thank you. I've always read gospels in the light of the split of Jesus followers from Judaism. But one of the most profound ideas here was that given how much was happening in terms of religious camps and political movements, it makes so much sense that what look like "conflicts" are people trying to figure which camp / movement Jesus was in

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Interesting insight!

[@realdealdaveabramyk9005]

Yeah that reminds me of the divorce conversation in Mark 10 without knowing Hillel and his followers and their opposition it doesn’t make a lot of sense.

[@jujenho]

I am a Christian, but I enjoy your your lectures, although not necessarily agreeing with everything. Your effort of presenting both views is commendable. It helps ennormously in creating a tolerant society without anyone abbandoning their views. The negative comments you receive from radical Jews confirm that both sides have a lot to learn. My personal belief is that Jesus never intended to create a new religion, but to reform Judaism. The work of Paul distanced the new converts from traditional Judaism and the Roman Empire completed the task by forcing an unified Church very different from what Jesus intended.

[@Who_took_my_handle]

ladies and gentlemen let’s keep it civil

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Agreed

[@luiscecilio8807]

Dear Prof....if some commentary is rude? please do not take it personal. Your teachings are wonderful and very valuable.....keep on. Thank you.

[@carrabellefl]

As a Christian, I take great pleasure in watching and learning from your video lectures. I truly believe that Jesus, if not God come to mankind in human form, was the instrument of bringing the God of Abraham to the wider world.

[@ItachiAli1993]

There is no need for God to take human form (which is illogical to begin with) to make himself known. He can make himself known via Angels and Prophets - which He already done so

[@Hambone3773]

Certainly Christianity spread worship of a single creator God worldwide.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you enjoy the videos!

[@PawsomeFeeders]

Numbers 23:19, Hosea 11:9 say God is not a man. Ezekiel 28:2, Isaiah 14:12 sternly castigate men who claim to be God. Malachi 3:6 says God will never change. Devarim 4:15 states that he has no image, the representation of any form. Exodus 33:20 brings down that no one can see God and live. Isaiah 40: 18"And to whom do you compare God, and what likeness do you arrange for Him?" Ibid. 44:24 "I am the Lord Who makes everything, Who stretched forth the heavens ALONE, Who spread out the earth from My power." PSALM 146 3Do not trust in princes, in the son of man, who has no salvation.4His spirit leaves, he returns to his soil; on that day, his thoughts are lost.5Praiseworthy is he in whose help is the God of Jacob; his hope is in the Lord his God.6Who made heaven and earth, the sea and all that is in them, Who keeps truth forever.

[@Hambone3773]

@@PawsomeFeeders mankind is already God's image/likeness. One of the faces of the cherubim is a man because mankind represents godlikeness (the other faces being animals and their intrinsic qualities). Mankind is a "little lower" than the angels but God is mindful of us.

[@larrykimani6280]

I am a Kenyan Catholic who spent early childhood ( upto age of 11) in a small ‘pseudo Judaism’ messianic community in Central Kenya. I will from the onset confess my love for the People and the Land of Israel. I am here to dig deeper into the historical origins and perspective of the Christian faith. 27:33

[@Caroline-me6xt]

Thank you so much for a new and so interesting video (the same goes for all of your videos),on a subject that many jewish scholars would never talk about!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you!

[@sylviabendavid]

Thanks

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks for supporting the research!

[@terryferrell9168]

I love your lectures and thank you!!

[@johnwalz2832]

Thank you Dr. Abramson! These videos are a blessing and profoundly insightful. For me, this particular video made me think of Paul’s words from Romans 9 where he says he has heaviness and constant sorrow in his heart, and he would cut himself off from Christ for his kinsmen’s sake. I do not know how any one who claims to love God and reflects on Paul’s words, could not somehow share in Paul’s burden for the house of Jacob!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you for the kind words, Mr. Walz!

[@yourthought2333]

😊 well navigated captain!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks!

[@josethottumkal]

The best way to describe this discourse as there are so many hidden reefs. Navigating a topic in an objective way, with many insights worth pondering on. So much in so short a time, dwelling on the essentials. I would certainly like to watch the other videos.

[@stevenelson6120]

As a student of history and philosophy I find your lectures to be most interesting

[@carolinemccullough9838]

Hello Brother, I thank you for your interest and learned contribution. My take on this is firstly, to be a Christian, one needs thorough immersion in Jewish teaching. Secondly, Jesus was a Jew. Thirdly, my take is not that the gospels accuse Jews, but that the criticism is directed at a specific branch of the hierarchy. Much of Jesus teachings are reflected in the Talmud and even Kabbalah. As your first quote notes, he came to fulfill the ‘law’ as you say ‘the way’ - and he says he is ‘the way’. Belief aside, I think this is evidence that he considered himself a Jew and was not intent on denying tradition. Paul took things further, but Jesus himself to me appears to be in respect of his ancestors and teachings. I am in deep respect of both. Thank you again for your insights, it’s a great discussion to be had.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you found the video useful!

[@titicoqui]

the one completely verifiable claim that jesus made that any one can investigate : " A greater than Solomon is here, " When I read the proverbs of Solomon they blew me away but then when I read the words of Jesus even Solomon seemed human Solomon could never claim as Jesus did FOR THIS REASON I WAS BORN AND FOR THIS CAUSE I CAME INTO THE WORLD, TO TESTIFY TO THE TRUTH. EVERYONE WHO BELONGS TO THE TRUTH HEARS MY VOICE. But as for you I consider you the best Educator ever , piercing, probing intellect and a huge many splendored heart. You represent intellectual fire power and a heart utterly sincere,

[@robbielee2148]

With great respect I would like to point out something often overlooked. When discussing the split between the early Jewish sect of what latter came to be called Christianity and main body of Jews who were not of one group, but split into at least four main groups: The Jewish Revolt! To be sure the early Christians did not support the Revolt, this brought about ever more distrust between said parties and even hatred. Maybe the good Dr. Abramson was going to mention this in the next episode, if so I look forward to it. I must say this was the most respectful presentation I have ever seen by a Rabbi on this subject, thank you Dr. Abramson.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

My pleasure! And in fact this week's material will focus on the great revolt.

[@tomsuiteriii9742]

That’s a great point. The split between Jews and Jewish (and Gentile) Christians wasn’t merely theological in nature: it must be understood in the context of the tumultuous first and second centuries AD/CE. Perhaps more revolutionary-minded Jews saw Christians as a pacifistic Roman “fifth column” in Israel, who, by not fighting, were siding with the enemy.

[@robbielee2148]

@@tomsuiteriii9742 I find the 1st century fascinating. James deserves a lot of credit & the Ebonite community in Jerusalem needs more focus. The Gentiles were Paul’s territory yet leadership until the Great revolt, was still very much a Jewish group of elders, who were 100% Torah observant but with an adoptionist Christology. Most interesting is that the church fathers talk about the ebonite having a Gosple of Mathew in Hebrew!

[@robbielee2148]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD I must say the dialogue here could be an example of how respect & good will work towards a common goal of knowledge. Thx for making it possible, may peace be with you and yours dear sir.

[@tomsuiteriii9742]

@@robbielee2148 Agreed. Much of the history of the early Christian movement in the land of Israel and the greater Near East needs much more scholarly focus. I believe the second century is also a fascinating one, as that is when the church and synagogue truly parted ways, as well as the final Jewish uprising against Rome that devastated Jewish life in Judea--even more so than the destruction of Jerusalem. It's unfortunate that there was no Josephus alive in the second century to comprehensively record much of it.

[@andrewardenga3919]

Dear Dr. Abramson, just stumbled upon your teaching videos, and I really appreciate the way you teach, especially as a follower of the Jewish Rabbi Yeshua. Looking forward to learn more about aspects that will give deeper insight into the world, thinking and living of my 'ancestral faith family'. Shalom to you from Germany.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you find the videos useful!

[@thegeorges2384]

Watching from Melbourne 🇦🇺 Another brilliant lecture, thanks for tackling such a giant subject 👍 21:46 I’m a gentile, but I’ve always found the concept of Jews killing Jesus, ridiculous.Firstly because Jesus himself was Jewish, & had many Jewish followers, secondly because it was actually the Romans who did the deed & thirdly the point is, but for the grace of God go I. Had I been born in that era, I to would have crucified Jesus, unless God had opened my eyes. I’m a big fan of all things Jewish because Jesus is Jewish, love to all Jews everywhere 🇮🇱💕

[@espositogregory]

Such a shamefully sad situation where God's chosen people have come to be burdened by the undue charge of "Christ Killers," hoisted upon them. As a person raised catholic, I it is clear from an objective standpoint that writers of the NT oddly exonerate Rome while taking baffling efforts to condemn Judaism wholesale. Rome (and specifically governmental authority) is suspiciously favored by the writers of the NT. GREAT presentation with a fair and interesting approach to this divisive topic for Judaic History. Well done שלום!

[@CarlosMdz72]

I recommend the book “Jesus the Pharisee” by Rabbi Harvey Falk. It is an excellent reading from an Orthodox Rabbi who understood Jesus teaching as Pharisaic.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks for the reference!

[@jrutt2675]

No, that book is false teaching trying to lead astray. Paul was a Pharisee,but was an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin!

[@CarlosMdz72]

@@jrutt2675 it is the same thing, Jewish = Israelite.

[@jrutt2675]

@@CarlosMdz72 No. The Northerner tribes were never Jewish. They are Christian's today! Many of the Pharisees were the descendants of Edom, not Israel!

[@CarlosMdz72]

@@jrutt2675 I am in complete disagreement with you. What you are saying doesn’t have any historical background. It is just pure anti-semitism and I am sad that you come to say those things in a Jewish page.

[@jonathanbriones1151]

Dr. Abramson, at 21:50 you mentioned the way how Jesus's trial did not conform to Jewish law. Is there an article or reference or your personal understanding of the matter as to why that was? In the book of leviticus or deuteronomy I believe the crime of blasphemy was carried out by stoning.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Have a look at the Jewish Annotated NT (OUP) for lots of details.

[@SK-le1gm]

Brilliant video. Thank you 🙏🏽

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@martinfield9686]

Very good lecture, thank you. Such a sensitive topic that needs to be addressed in a non-emotive way.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

You're very welcome

[@SteveFirefly777]

I have learned so much Jewish history from you, and I can sense how difficult and sensitive this topic is for you. Jesus is probably the most misunderstood person in history. He has transformed countless lives, but he has also been extensively misappropriated by countless others.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Hope you found the video useful.

[@SteveFirefly777]

@Adam Jesus did not cause the deaths you are attributing to him. People who’ve misappropriated and misrepresented him are guilty, and they will get the judgement they deserve. This misappropriation started in the centuries following his death and hit a tragic milestone when Constantine misappropriated Christianity. That was when a faith that was symbolised by sheep took on the nature of the wolf. Christianity was always meant to be a persecuted faith, not a persecuting power.

[@Aj-zr8dz]

@Adam Jesus said if you live by the sword, you will die by the sword. Those who refused to listen to this simple message are the ones who literally cause the loss of life.

[@Aj-zr8dz]

@Adam We don't but that's what the early Jewish Christians believed, they were against a violent revolt against Rome knowing it would only bring annihilation and ruin.

[@Aj-zr8dz]

@Adam But then if you admit you don't know what he said, you can't be sure him being quiet would have prevented anything. Many early Christians did keep quiet when accused by Rome of blasphemy against the Roman gods and they were led to slaughter for it indeed. Then the Roman state co-opted the growing religious movement and turned it into a state tool of population control. I can't blame Jesus for the sins of others.

[@annabellebeckwith9283]

Thank you for another informative, thorough presentation. Thank you, too, for not disabling comments. Many potential viewers refuse to watch videos that disable comments.

[@mikeklein9923]

Seems like he was an OK jew who disagreed with the organized leadwrship.. Hmm...

[@ItachiAli1993]

He never taught that he was God or the son of God but he was amongst the Prophets of God from the Israelites

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Mike, that's your default setting, I think.

[@arulsammymankondar30]

@@ItachiAli1993 If that is true, why did the Jews had him killed?

[@arulsammymankondar30]

@S. Langan Speech of Stephen, the First Christian Martyr : Acts 7:51 "You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit!7:52Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him--7:53you who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it."7:54When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him."

[@RVJunke1]

Awesome content. Glad I found you, on my spiritual journey.

[@stevenmagasis4810]

Enlightening, insightful and informative. Thanks again.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@davidwillinger5865]

I am moved by the precision and strong intention to get at the truth of this lecture and all the others by Prof. Abramson that I've watched so far. What I have been struck by as one who was born Jewish but only started practicing 6 years ago, is how much (a huge amount) of Christian theology is embedded in our siddur (book of prayer). So much vocabulary, so many concepts, and so many practices that I think of as Christian, grow so obviously out of Judaism. I consider Jesus Christ a tsadek, a saint, a great Jewish practitioner and innovator, a figure whose philosophy, acts, and relationship with the almighty I can and do fold into my own practice. To quote from a beautiful Catholic song I heard and sang when I was young, "We are one in the spirit, we are one in the Lord...." And so we are. If only centuries of misunderstanding and mutual animosity could be overlooked and erased (I'd be happy to, personally) we could consider each other as branches of the same tree with much more that overlaps in our beautiful theologies than differs.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you found the video useful.

[@tonybuck1225]

The Messianic Claim that Jesus made, will always defeat your point of view.

[@Didisayhi]

Thanks I love your work!!! Keep them coming!!!!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you enjoy the lectures!

[@daryldaniels4860]

Excellent lecture. Can't wait for some more.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Many thanks!

[@Nota769]

So thankful I wasn’t around during that period it sounds so complicated and so corrupted and so much conflict and ulterior motives yet such compelling ideas. I would have felt so torn. I wonder what I would have decided

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

It was certainly complex.

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

15:48. So how would you read that story (of overturning the tables) instead ?

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Restate your question please.

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD "which is by the way, I widely misunderstood passage too". How do you think that the turning of the tables passage ought to be understood?

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD you hint at JANT likely covering the answer.

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD You also ad, "that would be much more of a kind of a zealotry thing to do". Yet the text itself states : Upon seeing Jesus’ actions in the temple, “His disciples remembered that it is written: ‘Zeal for your house will consume me’” (verse 17).

[@mikeainsworth9861]

Thank you for this insightful video. For those who would like to know more, I suggest the videos and, if you have time, the books of John Dominic Crossan, perhaps the most renowned living scholar on the historic Jesus. Crossan addresses some of the questions posed in the video, such as why the Romans killed Jesus and not his followers. He maintains that Jesus, a devout Jew who had no intention of creating a new religion, was.killed as a nonviolent insurrectionist against Roman authority. He indicates in such cases only the movement leader was executed, as opposed to violent insurrection where as many participants as could be captured were crucified.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you for the reference!

[@jackking2225]

Thanks for pointing this out. I always wondered why Peter wasn't killed or arrested because he attacked one of the guards arresting Jesus. He must have been scared our of his wits worrying that the Romans would do the same to thing to him. A neuroscientist at Stanford explained that the reason the apostles thought they saw Jesus after he died was that they were in such an extreme case of psychosis and emotional distress that the Romans actually went through with the crucifiction that they had "visions" of seeing Jesus still alive. I never really thought about it that way. People who went to see the Mel Gibson movie "The Passion of the Christ" would sometimes faint just watching a graphic movie about a man being executed this way. Seeing someone, especially their religious leader would have been extremely traumatic. Nowadays anyone in such a state would be hospitalized. Those appostles probably could have benefited from electro shock therapy. Just can imagine how stories would get around that Jesus was alive - the same kinds of things happen even today. It's incredible how people get worked up over fake news.

[@maureenlaburt2095]

I was raised in a strict Catholic family and all-Christian town and have always (at least from the age of 10) taken issue with the teachings of xtianity-especially problematic as my mother brother was a Catholic priest cum Monsignor and my own brother became and is a Catholic priest. I have always maintain that Jesus was by his claims an insurrection it’s and grave danger to all the Jews as The Romans were savage in their quest and took pleasure in slaughtering and brutalizing throughout the lands their seized, and Pontius Pilate was eventually removed as governor for being even too brutal even by Roman standards. So it was but for “divine grace” that not just the followers, but all weren’t slaughtered at that time. But as his followers continued and took his claims even further, the occupiers cracked down more and more until even the mainstream Jews had become unable to “just keep their heads down” and had to protest and just 40 or so years after Jesus, over 2 million were slaughtered In Jerusalem, Masada fell, and 2000 year of diasporas, pogroms and ultimately The Shoah ensued with the aid of the Reichkonkordat Treaty of The Vatican giving legitimacy to the nazis. The Vatican from the onset removed all things Jewish from the identity from the one they claimed to worship. With every question or challenge to the teachings and history I’ve raised throughout my life, it was always either answered with quotes from “the new testament” or not at all and resulted in my being expelled, to my contentment, from “church school/CCD.” Only in the past 8 years now, after abandoning religion altogether, have I pursued trying to learn following a six-month stay in a trauma ICU on life support, multiple resuscitations, a coma, etc. remembering my mother as a teacher who emphasized always going to the actual source documents and pursuing every question raised along the way, premises used, and telling me that when something stands out that seems odd or out of place, it is a sign that you are meant to pay attention and pursue it further. One such oddity was a top suggestion in my internet viewing that was a Lecture by an Israeli Rabbi that has led me along a path that has brought me here thus far. It had also led me to six-day bout of insomnia during which time I finally after decades finally put in writing (for my own and later possibly my daughter’s eyes) my objections, observations, opinions that were nagging and gnawing at me about the xtian church’s teachings, claims, etc. Obviously, brevity has never been my forte, feeling the need to explain bases, etc.! I’m commenting here as both messrs. Ainsworth’s and King’s comments inspired me further, and having (over)addressed the former, on Mr. King’s, the opinion of psychoses by the neuroscientist seems quite likely. Following the accident that put me in the ICU, I was, among other things, in traumatic shock, and as a result “saw” thing happening that at the time were so vivid and real to me that I suffered A-Fib, cardiac arrest, acute hypotension but was unable to speak or move, no less write of these terrors I was “seeing,” not to be confused with going into the light, death or NDEs-the terrors, once finally healed and given time were non-sensical and completely illogical. In the case of Shimon claimed that dead Jesus then declared his name to be “Peter” given the lead role to take his leader’s message on tour to play at the colosseum, heart of the nest of the occupying Romans, and all those not wanting to be left out of the chosen favored also said they were told to keep the “resurrection” to themselves. Way to follow the instruction of the one they claimed “messiah” and by some accounts claimed as G-d himself, but to do so was no in their own interests nor to their benefit. And “Peter” even defied James, the younger brother of Jesus himself who was steadfast that his brother did NOT and would not want his teachings, which were the teachings of The Torah and The Covenant between G-d and His Chosen People, the Jews, going outside of their Promised Land. The ultimate adoption of xtianity stripped of all the Jewish and very identity of Jesus as it was adopted ultimately over 3 centuries later was the very political tool needed by The Roman Empire that for centuries had struggled to maintain the submission of those conquered with the power of the One True G-d over the fealty of their conquered to the mere men who were chieftains and kings with promises of heavenly reward for those who submitted and suffered at their hands and much of what is attributed to Jesus as his teaching are actually his teaching and allegories of the Torah and, such as the story of “The Good Samaritan,” of the laws/commandments (mitzvot/mitzvos) and beliefs of Judaism. At least this is the way I have perceived it. And the translations of translations, exclusions and additions and editing as well as contradictions, claims of dreams no matter how vivid as “visions” or visits has made this no less incredulous to me as many xtians view Mormon or Islamic claims. And it has only been from what I’ve survived and experienced (since the accident I’ve since also had and will continue for life to go through cancer) as well as the lectures and learning from phenomenal Rabbis such as Rabbi Abramson (and the brilliant Grand Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, Z”L) that I can no longer deny the very existence of the ONE TRUE Creator and G-d after too long believing that since I believed xtianity fabricated hoax that any belief in Him, too, had to be as an extension. to borrow from what my daughter as a child believed to be a particular hymn’s lyrics, Oi vey, Maria! This is too long, but there it is, and now I have the great fortune of many more of Rabbi Abramson’s videos I need to watch for which I am incredibly thankful, may he be eternally blessed!

[@Dakota-23]

I am pretty much new to judaism and will be making a conversion soon because my ancestry is not a direct line and through my moms grandfather and yours along with rabbi Saks works are a big help for me. Hopefully, I will get a chance to meet you. תודה רבה for your work.

[@richardglady3009]

Thank for the very informative video. I even downloaded a sample of the “Jewish Annotated New Testament.”

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Enjoy in good health.

[@m.a.p.g.]

Thank you so much, been looking for this.

[@michael0.770]

Dr. Abramson-As someone who had both a Jewish and Christian parent, your balanced, erudite, and engaging style is most appreciated. And yes, even the humor!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you so much!

[@ttchamma]

Thank you so much for your wonderful lectures

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you like them!

[@Bobbyj438]

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 This one was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and apart from him not one thing came into being that has come into being. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of humanity. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. John 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ” 16 And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.--- If this is true then it changes the whole conversation. Thank you Henry for your work.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Hope you found the video useful.

[@PawsomeFeeders]

Devarim 29 28The hidden things belong to the Lord, our God, but the revealed things apply to us and to our children FOREVER: that we must fulfill all the words of this Torah. Yeshayahu 44 24So said the Lord, your Redeemer, and the One Who formed you from the womb, "I am the Lord Who makes everything, Who stretched forth the heavens ALONE, Who spread out the earth from My power.24So said the Lord, your Redeemer, and the One Who formed you from the womb, "I am the Lord Who makes everything, Who stretched forth the heavens ALONE, Who spread out the earth from My power. Devarim 11 1[Therefore] you shall love the Lord, your God, keep His charge, His statutes, His ordinances, and His commandments, ALL THE DAYS [Forever] Malachi 3 22Keep in remembrance the TORAH of Moses, My servant-the laws and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel

[@Bobbyj438]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD your scholarship is enriching. The neutrality that you show in your presentation Allows room to approach this sensitive topic.Your work and courage is very much appreciated.

[@tonybuck1225]

@@PawsomeFeeders The Torah - of which Jesus is the Fulfilment.

[@AnthonyOzimic]

Many thanks Dr Abramson. I think your Jewish History Lab series is great. As a Catholic, naturally I respectfully disagree on a few points but I think you presented the material with objectivity, respect, style, and humour.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

That's very kind of you!

[@Annabelarhin]

Great video.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks!

[@jessicahijarunguru4117]

As a follower of Jesus, its so refreshing and interesting to learn about him from his roots, about him as a human being, a Jew in his native land and his relationship to his traditions and customs.. I would want more, Thank you.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@JoeCiliberto]

Thank you again Dr. Abramson. The various books (writings) were over time considered and either included or excluded into the more common versions of today's Bible. How were the writings used in Judaism such as the Talmud incorporated or established? Were there Rabbinical councils and such as we (Christians) had in Nicaea? Second question - Why do you believe that in both Judaism and Christianity, newer works, or newer writings have not been added? I believe these writings are the word of God and He inspired the authors to write them. I wonder why the inspiration is no longer required and is their historical evidence to prove this point. If you have already covered these topics I apologize for missing them. Happy New Year!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

I plan to discuss some of these questions in the text version of these lectures.

[@otnana3164]

Thank You, Dr Abramson. Great

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@michellelugo705]

Thank you!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

You're welcome!

[@abi_h.]

If you look at Leviticus 16, it could potentially provide another way to interpret the Matthew 27 passage.

[@Livingmydreammm]

Thank you so much! Good luck to you❤️. Hope to see you in heaven. Keep praying for widsom❤️❤️. GOD BLESS❤️

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thank you so much!

[@CongressmanCollins]

A lecture on the connection between Jewish and Christian Gnostics would be fascinating. Thank you 🙏

[@maximilianUTU]

How fascinating: this video comes exactly on Yalda-night (aramaeic and persia), the astronomic date when daylight is becoming longer and nights start to become shorter. This was in popular mythology the fiesta of Light's victory over Darkness (see Gnosticism and Mandaeans) on which Chanukka and Christmas are based. In my personal thinking, this man Jehoshuah ben Joseph (you can call him RaJbaJ ;-) ) was not a pagan half-god and world-ruler, but an interesting jewish Rabbi. This poor boy is absolutely not responsible for what his followers and hellenistic jews and the romans and all later theologians made out of him. This was their fiction, not his fact. Greetings and Best Wishes !

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Interesting observation!

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

Just to keep my comment short and less critical and controversial: please consider that if you look at the evangelical accounts, Yehoshua's birth likely occurred at the time of sukkot and thus not during the winter solstice. Therefore you are justified to be skeptical of what the hellenistic jews and others present you as a "poor boy" Jesus. You might want to look into whatever else has been glued into this picture, because of the customs of around the darkest days.

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

@Nate Jones please note that the gospels actually date his birth around sukkot. So what you postulate would not work.

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

@Eli Parnez im sorry but you're being ignorant. One knows that there's 6 months between the births of John the Baptist and Jesus. It's more complicated but after turning pages and calculating, the conclusion is that he was born in a sukkah and the manger was just provisions. Look it up.

[@Hambone3773]

Killed by politics. The one thing you can always rely on.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

And taxes.

[@claywithers523]

@@HenryAbramsonPhD "Render unto Caesar....."

[@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456]

@@claywithers523 taxes are stereotypically relyble. He's not saying it had anything to do with his death.

[@claywithers523]

@@bluellamaslearnbeyondthele2456 It didn't. "And unto G-d the things that are G-d's". You know why he died. Pilate found no fault in him. According to witness statements. It was by the will the crowd, a Roman public vote between 2 defendants.

[@claywithers523]

There's a story about Pilate persistently washing his hands afer this , whether it is true or not, is another matter.....

[@georgemargaritis2392]

So much better than hearing a Rabbi talking about the same matter. They simply can't stay on the matter without insulting the other faith, just like a Christian priest really Love your vids Greetings from Greece 🇬🇷

[@georgemargaritis2392]

@Ubiquitary I meant in contrast with all the rabbis that are not historians or that they put their profession as a historian on a lower level

[@gregcollins7602]

Oh boy this is good stuff. I cannot get enough. I sure would like to buy you a cup of coffee sometime.

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Thanks

[@davidmelander7618]

Thanks for your thoughtful work!

[@thekriskokid]

Thanks! As always, a very informative and enlightening lecture. I just received my new copy of the Jewish Annotated New Testament from Amazon. Great recommendation!

[@HenryAbramsonPhD]

Enjoy in good health!

[@LorenHoltzer8thRgt3SPD1stLRS]

Still relevant and thank you for the perspective indeed!

[@honeysucklecat]

I would love to learn more about the similarities between Jesus and Hillel.