From the foregoing remarks it is clear that blasphemy among the ancient
Hebrews was subject to a twofold classification: (1) A verbal
renunciation and profane speaking of the name of Jehovah. To this kind
of blasphemy the provision in Leviticus xxiv. 15-20 was applicable. This
was blasphemy in its generally accepted but narrower and more restricted
sense. This kind of blasphemy indicated a most depraved and malignant
state of mind, and to secure a conviction it was necessary to show that
the word "Jehovah" or "Adonai" had been pronounced. (2) "Every word or
act, directly in derogation of the sovereignty of Jehovah, such as
speaking in the name of another god, or omitting, on any occasion that
required it, to give to Jehovah the honor due to His own name."[209]
This form of blasphemy was nearly the same as treason under modern
governments, and included all offenses that threatened the usurpation of
the throne of Jehovah, the destruction of His institutions, and that
withheld from Him due acknowledgment of His authority and authorship in
all matters of miracle and prophecy.
Returning to the trial in the palace of Caiaphas, let us again consider
the question: Was Jesus guilty of blasphemy under any of the definitions
above given? Had He ever cursed the name of Jehovah and thereby brought
Himself within the condemnation of the law, as laid down in Leviticus
xxiv. 15-20? Certainly not. Every word uttered by Him at the trial, as
well as every other expression elsewhere uttered at any time or place,
was said with reverence and awe and love in praise and glorification of
the name and person of Jehovah. Rabbi Wise ridicules the notion that
Jesus was ever tried upon the charge of blasphemy, because it is not
recorded anywhere that He ever used any but tender and affectionate
language in speaking of the Heavenly Father.
Had Jesus blasphemed, in the sense of "despising Judaism," and thereby
brought Himself within the purview of the rule as exemplified in II Sam.
xii. 14? Certainly not. There is no record anywhere that He despised
Judaism. Jesus revered both the Law and the Prophets. He claimed that He
came to fulfill, not to destroy them.[210] He frequently denounced
Pharisaic formalism and hypocrisy, but at the same time He was a most
loyal Jew and a devoted son of Israel.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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