Orthodox rabbis see Matthew 5:17 as a problematic text

 

Orthodox rabbis see Matthew 5:17 as a problematic text, as they believe Jesus is misinterpreting the Jewish law and his role in relation to it. Rabbis argue that the Hebrew word "telos" (translated as "fulfill") means "to complete" or "to perfect", not "to abolish". They believe Jesus is claiming to perfect the law, not replace it.

Rabbis also point out that the law is eternal and unchangeable, and that Jesus' teachings often contradict or relax Jewish commandments. They argue that Jesus' statement is a clear example of his departure from traditional Jewish teaching and practice.

In contrast, Christians see Matthew 5:17 as a central text that establishes Jesus' relationship to the Old Testament law. They interpret "fulfill" as "to bring to completion" or "to satisfy", believing Jesus is saying he has come to perfectly obey and satisfy the requirements of the law.

Christian interpreters often see Jesus' statement as a contrast between the old covenant (the law) and the new covenant (grace through faith in Jesus). They argue that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the law, and that his teachings and death have made the law obsolete.

Orthodox rabbis, however, reject this Christian interpretation, arguing that it is a misreading of Jewish scripture and tradition. They emphasize that the law is still binding and relevant, and that Jesus' teachings often contradict Jewish values and practices.

In conclusion, Orthodox rabbis and Christians have fundamentally different interpretations of Matthew 5:17. While rabbis see Jesus as misinterpreting the law, Christians see him as fulfilling and perfecting it. These differing interpretations reflect deeper theological and hermeneutical differences between Judaism and Christianity.