What Happens When a Christian Reads the Torah

The Torah, comprising the first five books of the Old Testament, is an essential text for both Jews and Christians. It holds significant religious and cultural importance, serving as a foundational document in the understanding of the Old Testament. While it might seem daunting or even alarming for a Christian to read the Torah, the experience can be enlightening and enriching. This article explores the implications and benefits of such an endeavor for a Christian reader.

The Torah as Part of the Bible

The Torah is a vital component of the Jewish and Christian Bibles, being the first five books of the Old Testament. The Torah is also part of the broader Talmud, which provides context and interpretation for Israel's sacred texts. For Christians, reading the Torah can be seen as fulfilling a mitzvah (commandment) to understand and embrace the Word of God.

Benefits for Christian Readers

Reading the Torah can significantly enhance a Christian's understanding of their own faith. Here are some specific benefits:

Enhanced Knowledge of the Jewish Religion: By reading the first five books of the Old Testament, Christians gain deeper insight into the Jewish faith and understanding of God. Contextual Insight into the New Testament: Jesus was a Jew, and much of the New Testament is rooted in the Jewish context and traditions. Understanding the Torah helps Christians grasp the context in which Jesus lived and taught. Appreciation of Passover and the Crucifixion: Christian readers can better understand religious holidays like Passover and why they are significant. This knowledge aids in comprehending the importance of the crucifixion of Jesus and its place within the larger scheme of salvation history.

Challenges and Considerations

While reading the Torah can be beneficial, it's important to approach the text with a biblical and theological lens. Christians who are familiar with the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible) may notice differences in translations and understandings. Here are some key areas to consider:

Differences in Translation: The Septuagint often contains slight variations from the original Hebrew text, which can affect the meaning and interpretation of certain passages. Familiarizing oneself with these differences can provide a more nuanced understanding. New Testament Context: Many quotations from the Septuagint appear in the New Testament, but they are sometimes simplified or truncated. This can lead to a loss of the original meaning. For example, the Greek word malakos (my messenger) in the Septuagint is understood as mal'akh (my angel) in the Tanakh, which affects the interpretation in the New Testament. Theological Implications: Reading the Torah can challenge or reinforce certain theological beliefs. It's important to approach the text with an open mind, considering both the historical and religious context.

Examples

A good example of how understanding the original context is crucial can be seen in Mark's use of the term "malakos." In the Septuagint, malakos is translated as "my messenger," leading Mark to interpret John the Baptist as a prophesied figure. However, a closer look at the Tanakh reveals that malakos should be understood as "my angel," which suggests a different interpretation.

Conclusion

Reading the Torah is not only possible but can also be a valuable experience for a Christian. It provides a deeper understanding of religious and cultural foundations, enhances theological studies, and deepens one's appreciation of the scriptures. By approaching the text with knowledge and reverence, Christians can gain significant insights into their faith and the broader context of religious traditions.