Jesus The Rabbi

Jesus the Rabbi offers a compelling and scholarly exploration of Jesus of Nazareth as a Jewish Rabbi deeply rooted in the vibrant world of first-century Second Temple Judaism. Reclaiming Jesus from later Christian theological lenses, this book situates him within the cultural, religious, and political landscape of Judea, where he taught in synagogues, engaged in Torah debates, and navigated Roman occupation. Drawing on historical-critical methods, primary sources like the Gospels, Mishnah, and Dead Sea Scrolls, and contemporary scholarship, Elior J. Cohen presents Jesus as a teacher whose parables and ethical teachings-emphasizing love, compassion, and justice-echoed Jewish traditions while sparking transformative conversations.
Structured in three parts, the book first immerses readers in the diverse Jewish context, from Pharisees to Zealots. It then traces Jesus' life, from his Galilean upbringing to his ministry, highlighting his nuanced engagement with Jewish law on issues like Sabbath and purity. Finally, it reflects on his legacy as a bridge between Judaism and early Christianity, fostering interfaith dialogue today. With appendices including a timeline, glossary of Hebrew terms, and ethical comparisons, this book is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and readers seeking a historically grounded understanding of Jesus.
Accessible yet rigorous, Jesus the Rabbi invites readers to rediscover Jesus as a Jewish figure whose teachings continue to resonate across traditions, inspiring shared values of righteousness and reconciliation. Perfect for religious studies courses, interfaith initiatives, or anyone curious about the historical Jesus and his enduring impact.