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Determining the Original Reading of Matthew 13:55

The passage of Matthew 13:55 presents a notable textual variant that has been a subject of scholarly debate. The verse in question reads, “Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas?” The name “Joseph” in this context has three primary textual variants: Ἰωσὴφ (Ioseph, “Joseph”), Ἰωσῆς (Ioses, “Joses”), and Ἰωάννης (Ioannes, “John”).

The Reading Culture of Early Christianity

Textual Witnesses and Variants

The most prominent manuscript evidence supports the reading “Joseph” (Ἰωσὴφ), which is found in key Alexandrian manuscripts, including Codex Vaticanus (B, dated to 300-330 C.E.), Codex Sinaiticus (א2, dated to 330-360 C.E.), and Codex Ephraemi Rescriptus (C). This reading is also supported by other important witnesses such as Θ, the Syriac tradition, and the f^33 family of manuscripts.

The second variant, “Joses” (Ἰωσῆς), appears in a range of manuscripts, including the early papyrus 𝔓103 (circa 200 C.E.), Codex Washingtonianus (W), Codex Koridethi (Θ), and others like L, Δ, and some Old Latin manuscripts. This variant is significant because of its early attestation in 𝔓103, suggesting that it was a recognized reading in some early Christian communities.

The third variant, “John” (Ἰωάννης), is less widely attested, found primarily in Codex Bezae (D) and a few other manuscripts. This reading is generally considered secondary, likely arising from scribal error or intentional alteration, perhaps influenced by the frequent pairing of “James and John” in the Gospel narratives.

Internal Evidence and Linguistic Considerations

Analyzing the internal evidence, one must consider the context and linguistic factors. The name “Joseph” (Ἰωσὴφ) aligns well with the Hebrew and Aramaic tradition, where “Joseph” (יוֹסֵף) was a common name. “Joses” (Ἰωσῆς), on the other hand, is considered by some scholars, like Bruce Metzger, to be a Galilean pronunciation of “Joseph,” suggesting a local adaptation of the name. This might explain its presence in some manuscripts but does not necessarily indicate originality.

The variant “John” (Ἰωάννης) appears to be a less plausible original reading due to its limited manuscript support and the potential for scribal assimilation to the well-known pair “James and John.” Additionally, considering the theological and doctrinal motivations of some scribes, the presence of “Joses” in certain manuscripts might reflect an attempt to harmonize the text with Mark 6:3, where “Joses” is also mentioned as a brother of Jesus.

Doctrinal and Theological Influences

The textual variations in Matthew 13:55 might also reflect early Christian doctrinal developments. Some scribes, particularly those influenced by the doctrine of Mary’s perpetual virginity, may have been uncomfortable with the idea of Jesus having a brother named “Joseph,” as it might imply a biological connection through Joseph and Mary. This doctrinal sensitivity could have motivated scribes to prefer “Joses” or “John” to avoid any perceived theological inconsistency.

Conclusion on the Original Reading

Considering the weight of the documentary evidence and internal linguistic factors, the reading “Joseph” (Ἰωσὴφ) in Matthew 13:55 appears to be the most plausible original text. This reading is supported by the earliest and most reliable Alexandrian manuscripts, which are generally considered to preserve a more accurate text. The presence of “Joseph” aligns with the broader textual tradition and does not require secondary explanations like doctrinal harmonization or local pronunciation variations.

The variant “Joses,” while early and notable, is likely a regional adaptation or a harmonization effort with Mark 6:3. The “John” variant is best understood as a scribal addition influenced by other Gospel narratives. Thus, after a thorough examination of the manuscript evidence and internal considerations, the original reading of Matthew 13:55 should be affirmed as “Joseph.”

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).