Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary
by Brant Pitre
For many inquirers, especially from Protestant churches, Mary is the steepest hill to climb. Where does all this come from? Brant Pitre's answer is the Bible, and specifically the Old Testament read with first-century Jewish eyes.
Step by step, from Genesis to Revelation, Pitre traces how Scripture presents Mary. She is the new Eve. She is the new Ark of the Covenant, carrying God's presence. She is the Queen Mother of the Davidic kingdom, and the Mother of God. He also takes on her perpetual virginity and the “brothers of Jesus,” her Assumption and her role in salvation. Every point rests on biblical patterns that an ancient Jewish reader would have recognized.
It suits inquirers for whom Marian doctrine is a stumbling block, Catholics who want to explain Mary from Scripture, and catechists teaching on Mary. Pitre is clear, careful and enthusiastic, and he invites skeptical readers to check every step against the text.
Key Takeaways
- Mary as the new Eve.
- Mary as the new Ark of the Covenant.
- The Queen Mother in the Davidic kingdom.
- Biblical reasoning behind Marian doctrines.
It grounds Marian doctrine in Scripture, which helps inquirers for whom Mary is a hurdle.
