Abstract

Abstract:

It is not altogether clear why Mary travels to Elizabeth’s residence after her encounter with the angel. Related, scholars often decipher Mary’s (in)actions as it relates to her pregnancy and the socio-religious repercussions thereof. This article contends that Luke crafted the first chapter of his Gospel with the laws concerning rape in Deuteronomy 22 in mind. Taking into account issues of gender, social status, the Law, and topography, it is argued that Luke pens the account of Mary’s journey in such a way that there is ambiguity and tension, disguise and manipulation to exploit a loophole in the rape laws of Deuteronomy 22*. Employing synchronic exegesis and diachronic interpretation, the impetus and nature of Mary’s journey becomes palpable through the interpretive lens of Deuteronomy 22*. Indeed, Luke has masterfully woven the tale of how Mary comes safely to full-term—against all odds—to deliver her baby: Jesus, the Messiah.

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