The enduring yod: an examination of Torah observance in the prophetic ministry and teaching of Jesus

This dissertation examines whether the Synoptic Jesus upheld the importance of Torah observance in his life and message, especially pertaining to his reputation as a miracle prophet. After surveying various viewpoints from prominent scholars, this study challenges broad trends that position Jesus in discontinuity with the Mosaic covenant and emphasize the Hellenization of Galilee. It begins with an analysis of Jesus’ Jewish context, both his devout socio-religious setting and his conservative upbringing presented by Matthew and Luke. This study then highlights indicators of Torah praxis in Jesus’ life and the significance of Jesus’ role as a prophet, restoring Israel back to covenantal fidelity. It then examines Jesus’ most explicit endorsement of the Hebrew Scriptures and the ethical injunctions of the Sermon on the Mount, and Jesus is presented as one expounding and elucidating the will of God as revealed in the Law and Prophets. Using three major controversy stories recorded in Mark, this study determines whether Jesus abolishes or disregards Torah observance related to Sabbath, food and purity, and the Temple cult. The result is that the Synoptic Jesus does not abrogate or devalue such covenantal adherences, but emerges as a conservative and passionate advocate of obedience to every yod, or smallest letter, of Hebrew Holy Writ.