Orthodox Christian priests delve into the meaning of 'Son of Man' in the Old and New Testaments, exploring linguistic nuances and ancient Jewish beliefs. They discuss the divine human figure in Daniel 7, the portrayal of God the Father in icons, and the significance of martyrdom. The podcast covers interpretations of the 'Son of Man', connections to Christ, and the evolution of beliefs in Second Temple Judaism and early Christian communities.
The term 'Son of Man' appears frequently in the Old Testament and has significance in the Gospels, sparking debates on its meaning and relation to Jesus.
The vision of the Son of Man in Daniel 7 serves as a foundation for discussions on divine figures in Jewish sources, emphasizing the two powers in heaven concept.
The Son of Man vision extends beyond Daniel 7, connecting to other divine figures like the angel of the Lord and prompting theological reflections on ancient Jewish texts.
The implications of the Son of Man vision shed light on the complexity of divine beings and powers in the ancient Jewish context, highlighting their roles in the heavenly realm.
The Son of Man, depicted as a divine figure in Second Temple Judaism, plays a crucial role in judgment, salvation, and righteousness, influencing beliefs and developments in Christian theology.
Deep dives
The Vision of the Son of Man
The podcast episode delves into the vision of the Son of Man as depicted in Daniel 7, focusing on the divine and human elements of this figure. It discusses how the Son of Man receives dominion and glory, with the holy ones sharing in the kingdom's victory.
Interpretation in Second Temple Judaism
The Son of Man vision in Daniel 7 emerges as a central theme in Second Temple Judaism, sparking discussions on the two powers in heaven concept. The episode highlights how the vision serves as a foundation for elaborating on divine figures within Jewish sources.
Expanding Theological Discussions
The podcast explores how the Son of Man vision prompts discussions on divine figures beyond Daniel 7, connecting to other passages about the angel of the Lord and the word of the Lord. It indicates a broader theological reflection on the nature of divine figures in ancient Jewish texts.
Implications for Understanding Divine Beings
The episode concludes with a discussion on the implications of the Son of Man vision for understanding divine beings and powers in the ancient Jewish context, shedding light on the complexity of divine figures and their roles in the heavenly realm.
Overview of the Son of Man Concept in the Podcast
The concept of the 'Son of Man' is extensively discussed, covering its origins, interpretations in Second Temple Judaism, and its prominence in the New Testament. Various perspectives on the Son of Man are explored, including how it relates to divine figures, its role in judgment, and its representation in different texts.
The Significance of the Son of Man in Second Temple Jewish Literature
In Second Temple Jewish literature, the Son of Man is depicted as a divine figure with preeminence and authority, existing before creation, and heralding righteousness. Referenced texts from Enoch emphasize the Son of Man's role in judgment, salvation, and his eternal nature, shedding light on beliefs prevalent in this period.
The Locus of the Son of Man in Enochian Texts and Early Christian Interpretations
Enochian texts portray the Son of Man as a timeless, righteous figure associated with divine judgment and the redemption of the righteous. Early Christians, such as St. Augustine, St. Nickophoros, and others, grappled with interpreting the Son of Man concept, acknowledging its influence on New Testament writings and the developments within Christian theology.
Christ's Identity as the Son of Man in Mark 14:61-64
During Christ's trial before the high priest in Mark 14:61-64, He unequivocally declares Himself as the Son of Man seated at the right hand of power and coming with the clouds of heaven. This declaration stirs unrest as the high priest tears his garments, accusing Jesus of blasphemy. While being the Messiah was not considered blasphemous by Jewish standards, claiming to be the divine figure, the Son of Man, provoked a unanimous judgment of deserving death, as seen in this pivotal interaction.
The Evolution of Two Powers in Heaven to Monism in Rabbinic Judaism
In the second century, a significant shift occurs within Judaism where beliefs in two powers in heaven, like the Son of Man next to God, are condemned and erased. Christian expulsion from synagogues marks the label of holding such beliefs as heretical, leading to a deliberate purge of texts and a moratorium on new writings. Efforts to consolidate faith into monism are pronounced in Talmudic tractates like Haggiga and Sanhedrin, portraying correction of figures like Akiva to enforce the singular nature of divine power and disavow belief in multiple heavenly powers.
The phrase “son of man” appears over 100 times in the Old Testament, and most of them are in the book of the Prophet Ezekiel. It shows up again, dozens of times, in the Gospels and then gets used elsewhere in the New Testament. What does it mean? Does this refer to Jesus? Every time? Join Fr. Stephen De Young and Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick for part 3 of their 4-part series on the Christology of the Old Testament.
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