A Note on Genealogy (TOLEDOTH)

 

Archaeology has revealed that more than 3,000 years prior to the establishment of Israel, the ancient Near East civilizations maintained their institutions and solidified their identity through the practice of recording names. For instance, scribes would compile lists of kings who ruled over a particular kingdom, including the duration of each king's reign. It is worth noting that some of these recorded reigns are exceedingly long, with one king even purportedly reigning for 43,200 years! This extensive duration of rule puts into perspective the biblical figure Methuselah (mentioned in Genesis 5:27), who is known as the oldest person in the Bible, having lived for 969 years. In light of the recorded reigns in ancient Near East civilizations, Methuselah's lifespan appears comparatively modest.

 It is not surprising that the Bible contains approximately 27 genealogies, with two of them found in the New Testament, specifically in the books of Matthew and Luke. Among these genealogies, the longest one is recorded in 1 Chronicles chapters 1-9, spanning from Adam to the descendants of Saul. Scholars believe that the authors of Matthew and Luke drew inspiration from the genealogical structure found in Chronicles when presenting the genealogy of Jesus.

 In the Old Testament, genealogies (Hebrew “toledoth”) serve two primary purposes. First, on a literary level, a genealogy marks the transition from one generation to the next, signifying the end of one story and the beginning of a new one. Second, on a theological level, genealogies were used to establish legitimacy and define membership, determining who belonged and who did not belong to the chosen people of Israel.

 Literary Purpose

On a literary level, genealogies play a significant role in the Bible. For example, we encounter the genealogy (referred to as "toledoth”) of the heavens and the earth in Genesis 2:4, which marks the beginning of the second creation story. Prior to the flood, we also find the genealogy of Noah in Genesis 6:9 and the genealogy of Noah's sons in Genesis 10:1, highlighting the transition and continuity of generations.

 This literary understanding sheds light on Matthew's presentation of Jesus' genealogy, which is divided into three distinct periods (consisting of 14 generations each). By structuring the genealogy in this way, the evangelist aims to portray the arrival of Jesus as a fresh beginning in the narrative and history of Israel. It is an indication that Jesus represents hope for the chosen people, particularly in light of the challenges and shortcomings faced during the monarchy.

 Furthermore, the symbolism of placing the genealogy of Jesus as the first passage in the New Testament, immediately following the conclusion of the Old Testament, carries significance. It underscores the notion that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promises and expectations found in the Hebrew Scriptures, offering a new chapter and renewed hope for the people of Israel.

Theological Purpose

On a theological level, genealogies serve the purpose of determining one's identity as an Israelite. They provide answers to the question of who belongs to the chosen people. For instance, we encounter the genealogy of Shem in Genesis 11:10, which leads to the emergence of the descendants of Abraham. Additionally, the genealogy of Terah, Abraham's father, is mentioned in Genesis 11:27. Isaac, too, has his own genealogy in Genesis 25:19, connecting him to Abraham and Jacob, all of whom are heirs to the promises made by the Lord.

Conversely, genealogies are also present for individuals such as Ishmael (Genesis 25:12) and Esau (Genesis 36:1). However, these genealogies serve to distinguish them from belongingness to the chosen people, marking them as separate from the line of promise. It is important to note, however, that despite their distinct genealogies, Ishmael and Esau still receive blessings from God.

In light of these theological considerations, Matthew's decision to begin his gospel with the genealogy of Jesus is significant. It clearly portrays Jesus as a "true Israelite," an heir to the promises and the faith of Israel's ancestors. By tracing Jesus' lineage back to Abraham and emphasizing his connection to the chosen people, Matthew establishes Jesus' rightful place as the fulfillment of the divine promises and the embodiment of Israel's hope.

author: Fr. Randy Flores, SVD

I have also discussed genealogy on my YouTube channel. You can watch it here.