Matthew 1:19
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτήν
her
G846
αὐτήν
her
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 16
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
δίκαιος
a just
G1342
δίκαιος
a just
Strong's:
G1342
Word #:
6 of 16
equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)
καὶ
man and
G2532
καὶ
man and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
9 of 16
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
θέλων
willing
G2309
θέλων
willing
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
10 of 16
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
αὐτήν
her
G846
αὐτήν
her
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
11 of 16
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
παραδειγματίσαι,
a publick example
G3856
παραδειγματίσαι,
a publick example
Strong's:
G3856
Word #:
12 of 16
to show alongside (the public), i.e., expose to infamy
Cross References
Mark 6:20For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.Genesis 38:24And it came to pass about three months after, that it was told Judah, saying, Tamar thy daughter in law hath played the harlot; and also, behold, she is with child by whoredom. And Judah said, Bring her forth, and let her be burnt.Luke 2:25And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.Leviticus 20:10And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.
Historical Context
In first-century Judaism, betrothal was legally binding and could only be dissolved through divorce. Adultery during betrothal was punishable by stoning under Mosaic law, though Roman occupation may have limited this practice.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Joseph's response demonstrate that true righteousness includes both justice and mercy?
- What does this teach about protecting the reputation and dignity of others, even when they appear guilty?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Joseph's righteousness is seen in his desire to protect Mary from public shame rather than making a spectacle of her perceived adultery. The phrase 'not willing to make her a public example' reveals covenant love (hesed) and mercy. His righteousness was not cold legalism but grace-filled obedience, foreshadowing the gospel principle that true righteousness flows from a transformed heart.