Was Joseph 90 when he married Mary? This question has intrigued scholars and theologians for centuries, as it delves into the mysteries of the New Testament and the lives of Jesus Christ’s parents. The Bible does not explicitly state Joseph’s age at the time of his marriage to Mary, leaving room for speculation and interpretation. This article explores the various theories and historical context surrounding this enigmatic topic.
Joseph, a descendant of King David, was a righteous and devout man according to the New Testament. He was chosen by God to be the earthly father of Jesus Christ, and his life is documented in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. The exact age of Joseph at his marriage to Mary, however, remains a subject of debate.
Some scholars argue that Joseph was indeed 90 years old when he married Mary. This theory is based on the fact that Joseph is described as a “just man” and “of age” in the Bible. They believe that “of age” could imply that Joseph was of a certain age, possibly 90, at the time of his marriage. Furthermore, they point to the Old Testament practice of men marrying late in life, as a sign of respect and wisdom.
On the other hand, there are those who believe that Joseph was much younger when he married Mary. This perspective is supported by the fact that Joseph is described as a “carpenter” in the New Testament, which suggests that he was of a working age. Additionally, some scholars argue that the mention of Joseph’s age in the Bible is an attempt to downplay his importance and to emphasize the virgin birth of Jesus.
The historical context of the time also plays a role in understanding Joseph’s age at marriage. In first-century Judea, it was common for young girls to marry at a young age, often between 12 and 14 years old. If Mary was a virgin at the age of 14 when she conceived Jesus, as many scholars believe, it would be reasonable to assume that Joseph was also young when they married.
In conclusion, the question of whether Joseph was 90 when he married Mary remains a topic of debate among scholars. While some argue for the older age based on biblical and historical evidence, others believe that Joseph was younger, in line with the cultural norms of the time. Ultimately, the true age of Joseph at his marriage to Mary may never be known, but the mystery adds to the intrigue and significance of the lives of Jesus Christ’s parents.
