Changes

125:0.1 No [[incident]] in all [[Jesus]]' eventful [[earth]] [[career]] was more [[engaging]], more [[humanly]] thrilling, than this, his first remembered [[visit]] to [[Jerusalem]]. He was especially [[stimulated]] by the [[experience]] of attending the [[temple]] [[discussions]] by himself, and it long stood out in his [[memory]] as the great [[event]] of his later [[childhood]] and early [[youth]]. This was his first [[opportunity]] to enjoy a few days of [[independent]] living, the exhilaration of going and coming without [[restraint]] and restrictions. This brief period of undirected living, during the week following the [[Passover]], was the first complete [[freedom]] from [[responsibility]] he had ever [[enjoyed]]. And it was many years subsequent to this before he again had a like period of [[freedom]] from all sense of [[responsibility]], even for a short time.

125:0.1 No [[incident]] in all [[Jesus]]' eventful [[earth]] [[career]] was more [[engaging]], more [[humanly]] thrilling, than this, his first remembered [[visit]] to [[Jerusalem]]. He was especially [[stimulated]] by the [[experience]] of attending the [[temple]] [[discussions]] by himself, and it long stood out in his [[memory]] as the great [[event]] of his later [[childhood]] and early [[youth]]. This was his first [[opportunity]] to enjoy a few days of [[independent]] living, the exhilaration of going and coming without [[restraint]] and restrictions. This brief period of undirected living, during the week following the [[Passover]], was the first complete [[freedom]] from [[responsibility]] he had ever [[enjoyed]]. And it was many years subsequent to this before he again had a like period of [[freedom]] from all sense of [[responsibility]], even for a short time.

125:0.2 [[Women]] seldom went to the [[Passover]] feast at [[Jerusalem]]; they were not required to be present. [[Jesus]], however, [[virtually]] refused to go unless his [[mother]] would accompany them. And when his mother decided to go, many other [[Nazareth]] women were led to make the [[journey]], so that the [[Passover]] company contained the largest number of [[women]], in [[proportion]] to men, ever to go up to the [[Passover]] from [[Nazareth]]. Ever and anon, on the way to [[Jerusalem]], they chanted the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_130 one hundred and thirtieth Psalm].

125:0.2 [[Women]] seldom went to the [[Passover]] feast at [[Jerusalem]]; they were not required to be present. [[Jesus]], however, [[virtually]] refused to go unless his [[mother]] would accompany them. And when his mother decided to go, many other [[Nazareth]] women were led to make the [[journey]], so that the [[Passover]] company contained the largest number of [[women]], in [[proportion]] to men, ever to go up to the [[Passover]] from [[Nazareth]]. Ever and anon, on the way to [[Jerusalem]], they chanted the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_130 one hundred and thirtieth Psalm].

125:0.3 From the time they left [[Nazareth]] until they reached the [[summit]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives], [[Jesus]] [[experienced]] one long [[stress]] of [[expectant]] [[anticipation]]. All through a [[joyful]] [[childhood]] he had [[reverently]] heard of [[Jerusalem]] and its [[temple]]; now he was soon to behold them in [[reality]]. From the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives] and from the outside, on closer [[inspection]], the [[temple]] had been all and more than [[Jesus]] had expected; but when he once entered its [[sacred]] [[portals]], the great [[disillusionment]] began.

125:0.3 From the time they left [[Nazareth]] until they reached the [[summit]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives], [[Jesus]] [[experienced]] one long [[stress]] of [[expectant]] [[anticipation]]. All through a [[joyful]] [[childhood]] he had [[reverently]] heard of [[Jerusalem]] and its [[temple]]; now he was soon to behold them in [[reality]]. From the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives] and from the outside, on closer [[inspection]], the [[temple]] had been all and more than [[Jesus]] had expected; but when he once entered its [[sacred]] [[portals]], the great [[disillusionment]] began.

125:0.4 In company with his [[parents]] [[Jesus]] passed through the [[temple]] precincts on his way to join that [[group]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah new sons of the law] who were about to be [[consecrated]] as [[citizens]] of [[Israel]]. He was a little disappointed by the general [[demeanor]] of the temple throngs, but the first great [[shock]] of the day came when his [[mother]] took leave of them on her way to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechitza women's gallery]. It had never occurred to [[Jesus]] that his [[mother]] was not to accompany him to the [[consecration]] [[ceremonies]], and he was thoroughly [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=2007-03-27-Self-Righteousness_and_Righteous_Indignation indignant] that she was made to [[suffer]] from such unjust [[discrimination]]. While he strongly resented this, aside from a few remarks of [[protest]] to his [[father]], he said nothing. But he [[thought]], and thought deeply, as his questions to the [[scribes]] and [[teachers]] a week later disclosed.

125:0.4 In company with his [[parents]] [[Jesus]] passed through the [[temple]] precincts on his way to join that [[group]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah new sons of the law] who were about to be [[consecrated]] as [[citizens]] of [[Israel]]. He was a little disappointed by the general [[demeanor]] of the temple throngs, but the first great [[shock]] of the day came when his [[mother]] took leave of them on her way to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechitza women's gallery]. It had never occurred to [[Jesus]] that his [[mother]] was not to accompany him to the [[consecration]] [[ceremonies]], and he was thoroughly [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=2007-03-27-Self-Righteousness_and_Righteous_Indignation indignant] that she was made to [[suffer]] from such unjust [[discrimination]]. While he strongly resented this, aside from a few remarks of [[protest]] to his [[father]], he said nothing. But he [[thought]], and thought deeply, as his questions to the [[scribes]] and [[teachers]] a week later disclosed.

125:0.5 He passed through the [[consecration]] [[rituals]] but was [[disappointed]] by their perfunctory and [[routine]] natures. He missed that [[personal]] interest which characterized the [[ceremonies]] of the [[synagogue]] at [[Nazareth]]. He then returned to greet his [[mother]] and prepared to accompany his [[father]] on his first trip about the [[temple]] and its various [[courts]], [[galleries]], and corridors. The [[temple]] precincts could accommodate over two hundred thousand [[worshipers]] at one time, and while the vastness of these buildings—in comparison with any he had ever seen—greatly impressed his [[mind]], he was more [[intrigued]] by the [[contemplation]] of the [[spiritual]] significance of the [[temple]] [[ceremonies]] and their associated [[worship]].

125:0.5 He passed through the [[consecration]] [[rituals]] but was [[disappointed]] by their perfunctory and [[routine]] natures. He missed that [[personal]] interest which characterized the [[ceremonies]] of the [[synagogue]] at [[Nazareth]]. He then returned to greet his [[mother]] and prepared to accompany his [[father]] on his first trip about the [[temple]] and its various [[courts]], [[galleries]], and corridors. The [[temple]] precincts could accommodate over two hundred thousand [[worshipers]] at one time, and while the vastness of these buildings—in comparison with any he had ever seen—greatly impressed his [[mind]], he was more [[intrigued]] by the [[contemplation]] of the [[spiritual]] significance of the [[temple]] [[ceremonies]] and their associated [[worship]].

125:0.6 Though many of the [[temple]] [[rituals]] very touchingly impressed his sense of the [[beautiful]] and the [[symbolic]], he was always disappointed by the [[explanation]] of the real [[meanings]] of these [[ceremonies]] which his [[parents]] would offer in answer to his many searching [[inquiries]]. [[Jesus]] simply would not accept [[explanations]] of [[worship]] and religious [[devotion]] which involved [[belief]] in the [[wrath]] of [[God]] or the anger of [[the Almighty]]. In further [[discussion]] of these questions, after the conclusion of the [[temple]] visit, when his [[father]] became mildly insistent that he acknowledge [[acceptance]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthodox_Judaism orthodox Jewish beliefs], [[Jesus]] turned suddenly upon his [[parents]] and, looking appealingly into the eyes of his father, said: " [[Universal Father|My father]], it cannot be true—[[the Father]] in [[heaven]] cannot so regard his erring [[children]] on [[earth]]. The heavenly Father cannot [[love]] his [[children]] less than you [[love]] me. And I well know, no matter what unwise thing I might do, you would never pour out wrath upon me nor vent [[anger]] against me. If you, my earthly father, [[possess]] such [[human]] [[reflections]] of the [[Divine]], how much more must the [[heavenly Father]] be filled with [[goodness]] and overflowing with [[mercy]]. I refuse to believe that [[Universal Father|my Father]] in heaven [[loves]] me less than my [[father]] on [[earth]]. "

125:0.6 Though many of the [[temple]] [[rituals]] very touchingly impressed his sense of the [[beautiful]] and the [[symbolic]], he was always disappointed by the [[explanation]] of the real [[meanings]] of these [[ceremonies]] which his [[parents]] would offer in answer to his many searching [[inquiries]]. [[Jesus]] simply would not accept [[explanations]] of [[worship]] and religious [[devotion]] which involved [[belief]] in the [[wrath]] of [[God]] or the anger of [[the Almighty]]. In further [[discussion]] of these questions, after the conclusion of the [[temple]] visit, when his [[father]] became mildly insistent that he acknowledge [[acceptance]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthodox_Judaism orthodox Jewish beliefs], [[Jesus]] turned suddenly upon his [[parents]] and, looking appealingly into the eyes of his father, said: " [[Universal Father|My father]], it cannot be true—[[the Father]] in [[heaven]] cannot so regard his erring [[children]] on [[earth]]. The heavenly Father cannot [[love]] his [[children]] less than you [[love]] me. And I well know, no matter what unwise thing I might do, you would never pour out wrath upon me nor vent [[anger]] against me. If you, my earthly father, [[possess]] such [[human]] [[reflections]] of the [[Divine]], how much more must the [[heavenly Father]] be filled with [[goodness]] and overflowing with [[mercy]]. I refuse to believe that [[Universal Father|my Father]] in heaven [[loves]] me less than my [[father]] on [[earth]]. "

125:0.7 When [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] heard these [[words]] of their first-born son, they held their [[peace]]. And never again did they seek to [[change]] his [[mind]] about the [[love]] of [[God]] and the [[mercifulness]] of [[the Father]] in [[heaven]].

125:0.7 When [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] heard these [[words]] of their first-born son, they held their [[peace]]. And never again did they seek to [[change]] his [[mind]] about the [[love]] of [[God]] and the [[mercifulness]] of [[the Father]] in [[heaven]].

==125:1. JESUS VIEWS THE TEMPLE==

==125:1. JESUS VIEWS THE TEMPLE==

125:1.1 Everywhere [[Jesus]] went throughout the [[temple]] [[courts]], he was [[shocked]] and sickened by the [[spirit]] of irreverence which he [[observed]]. He deemed the [[conduct]] of the temple throngs to be inconsistent with their [[presence]] in " his Father's house. "[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_2] But he received the [[shock]] of his [[young life]] when his [[father]] escorted him into the [[court]] of the [[gentiles]] with its noisy [[jargon]], loud talking and cursing, mingled indiscriminately with the bleating of sheep and the babble of [[noises]] which betrayed the [[presence]] of the [[money]]-changers and the vendors of [[sacrificial]] animals and sundry other [[commercial]] [[commodities]].

125:1.1 Everywhere [[Jesus]] went throughout the [[temple]] [[courts]], he was [[shocked]] and sickened by the [[spirit]] of irreverence which he [[observed]]. He deemed the [[conduct]] of the temple throngs to be inconsistent with their [[presence]] in " his Father's house. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_john#Chapter_2] But he received the [[shock]] of his [[young life]] when his [[father]] escorted him into the [[court]] of the [[gentiles]] with its noisy [[jargon]], loud talking and cursing, mingled indiscriminately with the bleating of sheep and the babble of [[noises]] which betrayed the [[presence]] of the [[money]]-changers and the vendors of [[sacrificial]] animals and sundry other [[commercial]] [[commodities]].

125:1.2 But most of all was his sense of [[propriety]] outraged by the [[sight]] of the frivolous [[courtesans]] parading about within this precinct of the [[temple]], just such painted [[women]] as he had so recently seen when on a visit to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris]. This [[profanation]] of the [[temple]] fully aroused all his [[youthful]] [[indignation]], and he did not hesitate to [[express]] himself freely to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph].

125:1.2 But most of all was his sense of [[propriety]] outraged by the [[sight]] of the frivolous [[courtesans]] parading about within this precinct of the [[temple]], just such painted [[women]] as he had so recently seen when on a visit to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris]. This [[profanation]] of the [[temple]] fully aroused all his [[youthful]] [[indignation]], and he did not hesitate to [[express]] himself freely to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph].

125:1.3 [[Jesus]] admired the sentiment and [[service]] of the [[temple]], but he was [[shocked]] by the [[spiritual]] ugliness which he beheld on the faces of so many of the unthinking [[worshipers]].

125:1.3 [[Jesus]] admired the sentiment and [[service]] of the [[temple]], but he was [[shocked]] by the [[spiritual]] ugliness which he beheld on the faces of so many of the unthinking [[worshipers]].

125:1.4 They now passed down to the [[priests]]' [[court]] beneath the rock ledge in front of the [[temple]], where the [[altar]] stood, to [[observe]] the killing of the droves of [[animals]] and the washing away of the [[blood]] from the hands of the officiating slaughter [[priests]] at the bronze fountain. The bloodstained pavement, the gory hands of the [[priests]], and the sounds of the dying [[animals]] were more than this [[nature]]-loving lad could stand. The terrible [[sight]] sickened this boy of [[Nazareth]]; he clutched his father's arm and begged to be taken away. They walked back through the [[court]] of the [[gentiles]], and even the coarse [[laughter]] and [[profane]] jesting which he there heard were a relief from the sights he had just beheld.

125:1.4 They now passed down to the [[priests]]' [[court]] beneath the rock ledge in front of the [[temple]], where the [[altar]] stood, to [[observe]] the killing of the droves of [[animals]] and the washing away of the [[blood]] from the hands of the officiating slaughter [[priests]] at the bronze fountain. The bloodstained pavement, the gory hands of the [[priests]], and the sounds of the dying [[animals]] were more than this [[nature]]-loving lad could stand. The terrible [[sight]] sickened this boy of [[Nazareth]]; he clutched his father's arm and begged to be taken away. They walked back through the [[court]] of the [[gentiles]], and even the coarse [[laughter]] and [[profane]] jesting which he there heard were a relief from the sights he had just beheld.

125:1.5 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] saw how his son had sickened at the [[sight]] of the [[temple]] [[rites]] and wisely led him around to view the " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Gate_(Jerusalem) gate beautiful], " the artistic gate made of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corinthian_bronze Corinthian bronze]. But [[Jesus]] had had enough for his first visit at the [[temple]]. They returned to the upper court for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] and walked about in the open air and away from the crowds for an hour, viewing the [http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Archaeology/jericho.html Asmonean palace], the stately [[home]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Archelaus Herod], and the tower of the Roman guards. During this stroll [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] [[explained]] to [[Jesus]] that only the [[inhabitants]] of [[Jerusalem]] were [[permitted]] to [[witness]] the daily [[sacrifices]] in the [[temple]], and that the dwellers in [[Galilee]] came up only three times a year to [[participate]] in the [[temple]] [[worship]]: at the [[Passover]], at the feast of [http://jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=177&letter=P&search=Pentecost Pentecost] (seven weeks after Passover), and at the [http://jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=4&letter=T&search=feast%20of%20the%20tabernacles feast of tabernacles] in October. These feasts were [[established]] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses]. They then discussed the two later [[established]] feasts of the [[dedication]] and of [http://jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=613&letter=P&search=purim Purim]. Afterward they went to their lodgings and made ready for the [[celebration]] of the [[Passover]].

125:1.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] saw how his son had sickened at the [[sight]] of the [[temple]] [[rites]] and wisely led him around to view the " [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Gate_(Jerusalem) gate beautiful], " the artistic gate made of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corinthian_bronze Corinthian bronze]. But [[Jesus]] had had enough for his first visit at the [[temple]]. They returned to the upper court for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] and walked about in the open air and away from the crowds for an hour, viewing the [https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Archaeology/jericho.html Asmonean palace], the stately [[home]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Archelaus Herod], and the tower of the Roman guards. During this stroll [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] [[explained]] to [[Jesus]] that only the [[inhabitants]] of [[Jerusalem]] were [[permitted]] to [[witness]] the daily [[sacrifices]] in the [[temple]], and that the dwellers in [[Galilee]] came up only three times a year to [[participate]] in the [[temple]] [[worship]]: at the [[Passover]], at the feast of [https://jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=177&letter=P&search=Pentecost Pentecost] (seven weeks after Passover), and at the [https://jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=4&letter=T&search=feast%20of%20the%20tabernacles feast of tabernacles] in October. These feasts were [[established]] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses]. They then discussed the two later [[established]] feasts of the [[dedication]] and of [https://jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=613&letter=P&search=purim Purim]. Afterward they went to their lodgings and made ready for the [[celebration]] of the [[Passover]].

==125:2. JESUS AND THE PASSOVER==

==125:2. JESUS AND THE PASSOVER==

125:2.1 Five [[Nazareth]] [[families]] were guests of, or [[associates]] with, the family of Simon of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(biblical_village) Bethany] in the celebration of the [[Passover]], Simon having purchased the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban_Pesach paschal lamb] for the company. It was the slaughter of these lambs in such enormous numbers that had so affected [[Jesus]] on his [[temple]] visit. It had been the [[plan]] to eat the [[Passover]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s relatives, but [[Jesus]] [[persuaded]] his parents to [[accept]] the [[invitation]] to go to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(biblical_village) Bethany].

125:2.1 Five [[Nazareth]] [[families]] were guests of, or [[associates]] with, the family of Simon of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(biblical_village) Bethany] in the celebration of the [[Passover]], Simon having purchased the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban_Pesach paschal lamb] for the company. It was the slaughter of these lambs in such enormous numbers that had so affected [[Jesus]] on his [[temple]] visit. It had been the [[plan]] to eat the [[Passover]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s relatives, but [[Jesus]] [[persuaded]] his parents to [[accept]] the [[invitation]] to go to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(biblical_village) Bethany].

125:2.2 That night they assembled for the [[Passover]] [[rites]], eating the roasted flesh with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. [[Jesus]], being a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah new son] of the [[covenant]], was asked to recount the [[origin]] of the [[Passover]], and this he well did, but he somewhat disconcerted his [[parents]] by the inclusion of numerous remarks mildly [[reflecting]] the impressions made on his [[youthful]] but thoughtful [[mind]] by the things which he had so recently seen and heard. This was the beginning of the [[seven]]-day [[ceremonies]] of the feast of the [[Passover]].

125:2.2 That night they assembled for the [[Passover]] [[rites]], eating the roasted flesh with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. [[Jesus]], being a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah new son] of the [[covenant]], was asked to recount the [[origin]] of the [[Passover]], and this he well did, but he somewhat disconcerted his [[parents]] by the inclusion of numerous remarks mildly [[reflecting]] the impressions made on his [[youthful]] but thoughtful [[mind]] by the things which he had so recently seen and heard. This was the beginning of the [[seven]]-day [[ceremonies]] of the feast of the [[Passover]].

125:2.3 Even at this early date, though he said nothing about such matters to his [[parents]], Jesus had begun to turn over in his [[mind]] the propriety of celebrating the [[Passover]] [[Vegan|without the slaughtered lamb]]. He felt [[assured]] in his own [[mind]] that [[the Father]] in heaven was not pleased with this [[spectacle]] of [[sacrificial]] offerings, and as the years passed, he became increasingly [[determined]] someday to [[establish]] the [[celebration]] of a [[Vegan|bloodless]] [[Passover]].

125:2.3 Even at this early date, though he said nothing about such matters to his [[parents]], Jesus had begun to turn over in his [[mind]] the propriety of celebrating the [[Passover]] [[Vegan|without the slaughtered lamb]]. He felt [[assured]] in his own [[mind]] that [[the Father]] in heaven was not pleased with this [[spectacle]] of [[sacrificial]] offerings, and as the years passed, he became increasingly [[determined]] someday to [[establish]] the [[celebration]] of a [[Vegan|bloodless]] [[Passover]].

125:2.4 [[Jesus]] slept very little that night. His rest was greatly disturbed by revolting [[dreams]] of slaughter and suffering. His [[mind]] was distraught and his [[heart]] torn by the inconsistencies and [[absurdities]] of the [[theology]] of the whole [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban Jewish ceremonial system]. His [[parents]] likewise [[slept]] little. They were greatly disconcerted by the [[events]] of the day just ended. They were completely upset in their own [[hearts]] by the lad's, to them, [[strange]] and [[determined]] [[attitude]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] became nervously [[agitated]] during the fore part of the night, but [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] remained calm, though he was equally [[puzzled]]. Both of them [[feared]] to talk frankly with the lad about these [[problems]], though [[Jesus]] would gladly have talked with his [[parents]] if they had [[dared]] to [[encourage]] him.

125:2.4 [[Jesus]] slept very little that night. His rest was greatly disturbed by revolting [[dreams]] of slaughter and suffering. His [[mind]] was distraught and his [[heart]] torn by the inconsistencies and [[absurdities]] of the [[theology]] of the whole [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korban Jewish ceremonial system]. His [[parents]] likewise [[slept]] little. They were greatly disconcerted by the [[events]] of the day just ended. They were completely upset in their own [[hearts]] by the lad's, to them, [[strange]] and [[determined]] [[attitude]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] became nervously [[agitated]] during the fore part of the night, but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] remained calm, though he was equally [[puzzled]]. Both of them [[feared]] to talk frankly with the lad about these [[problems]], though [[Jesus]] would gladly have talked with his [[parents]] if they had [[dared]] to [[encourage]] him.

125:2.5 The next day's services at the [[temple]] were more [[acceptable]] to [[Jesus]] and did much to relieve the unpleasant [[memories]] of the previous day. The following morning young [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] took [[Jesus]] in hand, and they began a [[systematic]] [[exploration]] of [[Jerusalem]] and its environs. Before the day was over, [[Jesus]] discovered the various places about [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Temple the temple] where [[teaching]] and question conferences were in [[progress]]; and aside from a few visits to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kadosh_Hakadashim holy of holies] to gaze in [[wonder]] as to what really was behind the veil of separation, he spent most of his time about the [[temple]] at these teaching conferences.

125:2.5 The next day's services at the [[temple]] were more [[acceptable]] to [[Jesus]] and did much to relieve the unpleasant [[memories]] of the previous day. The following morning young [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] took [[Jesus]] in hand, and they began a [[systematic]] [[exploration]] of [[Jerusalem]] and its environs. Before the day was over, [[Jesus]] discovered the various places about [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Temple the temple] where [[teaching]] and question conferences were in [[progress]]; and aside from a few visits to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kadosh_Hakadashim holy of holies] to gaze in [[wonder]] as to what really was behind the veil of separation, he spent most of his time about the [[temple]] at these teaching conferences.

125:2.6 Throughout the [[Passover]] week, [[Jesus]] kept his place among the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah new sons of the commandment], and this meant that he must seat himself outside the rail which [[segregated]] all persons who were not full [[citizens]] of [[Israel]]. Being thus made [[conscious]] of his [[youth]], he refrained from asking the many questions which surged back and forth in his [[mind]]; at least he refrained until the [[Passover]] celebration had ended and these restrictions on the newly [[consecrated]] [[youths]] were lifted.

125:2.6 Throughout the [[Passover]] week, [[Jesus]] kept his place among the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah new sons of the commandment], and this meant that he must seat himself outside the rail which [[segregated]] all persons who were not full [[citizens]] of [[Israel]]. Being thus made [[conscious]] of his [[youth]], he refrained from asking the many questions which surged back and forth in his [[mind]]; at least he refrained until the [[Passover]] celebration had ended and these restrictions on the newly [[consecrated]] [[youths]] were lifted.

125:2.7 On Wednesday of the [[Passover]] week, Jesus was [[permitted]] to go [[home]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] to spend the night at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(Biblical_village) Bethany]. This evening, Lazarus, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] heard [[Jesus]] [[discuss]] things [[temporal]] and [[eternal]], [[human]] and [[divine]], and from that night on they all three [[loved]] him as if he had been their own [[brother]].

125:2.7 On Wednesday of the [[Passover]] week, Jesus was [[permitted]] to go [[home]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] to spend the night at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(Biblical_village) Bethany]. This evening, Lazarus, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Bethany Mary] heard [[Jesus]] [[discuss]] things [[temporal]] and [[eternal]], [[human]] and [[divine]], and from that night on they all three [[loved]] him as if he had been their own [[brother]].

125:2.8 By the end of the week, [[Jesus]] saw less of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] since he was not eligible for admission to even the outer circle of the [[temple]] [[discussions]], though he attended some of the [[public]] talks delivered in the outer [[courts]]. Lazarus was the same age as Jesus, but in [[Jerusalem]] [[youths]] were seldom admitted to the [[consecration]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah sons of the law] until they were a full thirteen years of age.

125:2.8 By the end of the week, [[Jesus]] saw less of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus] since he was not eligible for admission to even the outer circle of the [[temple]] [[discussions]], though he attended some of the [[public]] talks delivered in the outer [[courts]]. Lazarus was the same age as Jesus, but in [[Jerusalem]] [[youths]] were seldom admitted to the [[consecration]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah sons of the law] until they were a full thirteen years of age.

125:2.9 Again and again, during the [[Passover]] week, his [[parents]] would find [[Jesus]] sitting off by himself with his [[youthful]] head in his hands, [[profoundly]] [[thinking]]. They had never seen him behave like this, and not knowing how much he was [[confused]] in [[mind]] and troubled in [[spirit]] by the [[experience]] through which he was passing, they were sorely [[perplexed]]; they did not know what to do. They welcomed the passing of the days of the [[Passover]] week and longed to have their strangely acting son safely back in [[Nazareth]].

125:2.9 Again and again, during the [[Passover]] week, his [[parents]] would find [[Jesus]] sitting off by himself with his [[youthful]] head in his hands, [[profoundly]] [[thinking]]. They had never seen him behave like this, and not knowing how much he was [[confused]] in [[mind]] and troubled in [[spirit]] by the [[experience]] through which he was passing, they were sorely [[perplexed]]; they did not know what to do. They welcomed the passing of the days of the [[Passover]] week and longed to have their strangely acting son safely back in [[Nazareth]].

125:2.10 Day by day [[Jesus]] was [[thinking]] through his [[problems]]. By the end of the week he had made many [[adjustments]]; but when the time came to return to [[Nazareth]], his [[youthful]] [[mind]] was still swarming with [[perplexities]] and beset by a host of unanswered questions and unsolved problems.

125:2.10 Day by day [[Jesus]] was [[thinking]] through his [[problems]]. By the end of the week he had made many [[adjustments]]; but when the time came to return to [[Nazareth]], his [[youthful]] [[mind]] was still swarming with [[perplexities]] and beset by a host of unanswered questions and unsolved problems.

125:2.11 Before [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] left [[Jerusalem]], in company with [[Jesus]]' [[Nazareth]] teacher they made definite arrangements for Jesus to return when he reached the age of fifteen to begin his long [[course]] of [[study]] in one of the best-known [[academies]] of the [[rabbis]]. [[Jesus]] accompanied his [[parents]] and teacher on their visits to the [[school]], but they were all distressed to [[observe]] how indifferent he seemed to all they said and did. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] was deeply pained at his [[reactions]] to the [[Jerusalem]] visit, and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was [[profoundly]] [[perplexed]] at the lad's strange remarks and unusual [[conduct]].

125:2.11 Before [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] left [[Jerusalem]], in company with [[Jesus]]' [[Nazareth]] teacher they made definite arrangements for Jesus to return when he reached the age of fifteen to begin his long [[course]] of [[study]] in one of the best-known [[academies]] of the [[rabbis]]. [[Jesus]] accompanied his [[parents]] and teacher on their visits to the [[school]], but they were all distressed to [[observe]] how indifferent he seemed to all they said and did. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] was deeply pained at his [[reactions]] to the [[Jerusalem]] visit, and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was [[profoundly]] [[perplexed]] at the lad's strange remarks and unusual [[conduct]].

125:2.12 After all, [[Passover]] week had been a great [[event]] in [[Jesus]]' life. He had enjoyed the [[opportunity]] of meeting scores of boys about his own age, fellow [[candidates]] for the [[consecration]], and he utilized such [[contacts]] as a means of learning how people lived in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesopotamia Mesopotamia], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkestan Turkestan], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parthia Parthia], as well as in the Far-Western provinces of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Rome]. He was already fairly conversant with the way in which the [[youth]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egypt Egypt] and other regions near [[Palestine]] grew up. There were thousands of young people in [[Jerusalem]] at this time, and the [[Nazareth]] lad personally met, and more or less extensively interviewed, more than one hundred and fifty. He was particularly interested in those who hailed from the [[Orient|Far-Eastern]] and the remote [[Occident|Western countries]]. As a result of these [[contacts]] the lad began to entertain a [[desire]] to [[travel]] about the world for the [[purpose]] of learning how the various [[groups]] of his fellow men toiled for their [[livelihood]].

125:2.12 After all, [[Passover]] week had been a great [[event]] in [[Jesus]]' life. He had enjoyed the [[opportunity]] of meeting scores of boys about his own age, fellow [[candidates]] for the [[consecration]], and he utilized such [[contacts]] as a means of learning how people lived in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesopotamia Mesopotamia], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkestan Turkestan], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parthia Parthia], as well as in the Far-Western provinces of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Rome]. He was already fairly conversant with the way in which the [[youth]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egypt Egypt] and other regions near [[Palestine]] grew up. There were thousands of young people in [[Jerusalem]] at this time, and the [[Nazareth]] lad personally met, and more or less extensively interviewed, more than one hundred and fifty. He was particularly interested in those who hailed from the [[Orient|Far-Eastern]] and the remote [[Occident|Western countries]]. As a result of these [[contacts]] the lad began to entertain a [[desire]] to [[travel]] about the world for the [[purpose]] of learning how the various [[groups]] of his fellow men toiled for their [[livelihood]].

==125:3. DEPARTURE OF JOSEPH AND MARY==

==125:3. DEPARTURE OF JOSEPH AND MARY==

125:3.1 It had been arranged that the [[Nazareth]] party should gather in the region of the [[temple]] at midforenoon on the first day of the week after the [[Passover]] festival had ended. This they did and started out on the return [[journey]] to [[Nazareth]]. [[Jesus]] had gone into the [[temple]] to listen to the [[discussions]] while his [[parents]] awaited the assembly of their fellow [[travelers]]. Presently the company prepared to depart, the [[men]] going in one [[group]] and the [[women]] in another as was their [[custom]] in journeying to and from the [[Jerusalem]] festivals. [[Jesus]] had gone up to [[Jerusalem]] in company with his [[mother]] and the [[women]]. Being now a young man of the [[consecration]], he was supposed to [[journey]] back to [[Nazareth]] in company with his [[father]] and the [[men]]. But as the [[Nazareth]] party moved on toward [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(Biblical_village) Bethany], [[Jesus]] was completely absorbed in the [[discussion]] of [[angels]], in the [[temple]], being wholly unmindful of the passing of the time for the departure of his [[parents]]. And he did not [[realize]] that he had been left behind until the noontime adjournment of the [[temple]] conferences.

125:3.1 It had been arranged that the [[Nazareth]] party should gather in the region of the [[temple]] at midforenoon on the first day of the week after the [[Passover]] festival had ended. This they did and started out on the return [[journey]] to [[Nazareth]]. [[Jesus]] had gone into the [[temple]] to listen to the [[discussions]] while his [[parents]] awaited the assembly of their fellow [[travelers]]. Presently the company prepared to depart, the [[men]] going in one [[group]] and the [[women]] in another as was their [[custom]] in journeying to and from the [[Jerusalem]] festivals. [[Jesus]] had gone up to [[Jerusalem]] in company with his [[mother]] and the [[women]]. Being now a young man of the [[consecration]], he was supposed to [[journey]] back to [[Nazareth]] in company with his [[father]] and the [[men]]. But as the [[Nazareth]] party moved on toward [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(Biblical_village) Bethany], [[Jesus]] was completely absorbed in the [[discussion]] of [[angels]], in the [[temple]], being wholly unmindful of the passing of the time for the departure of his [[parents]]. And he did not [[realize]] that he had been left behind until the noontime adjournment of the [[temple]] conferences.

125:3.2 The [[Nazareth]] travelers did not miss [[Jesus]] because [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] surmised he [[journeyed]] with the [[men]], while [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] thought he [[traveled]] with the [[women]] since he had gone up to [[Jerusalem]] with the [[women]], leading [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s donkey. They did not [[discover]] his [[absence]] until they reached [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] and prepared to tarry for the night. After making [[inquiry]] of the last of the party to reach Jericho and learning that none of them had seen their son, they spent a sleepless night, turning over in their [[minds]] what might have happened to him, recounting many of his unusual [[reactions]] to the [[events]] of [[Passover]] week, and mildly chiding each other for not seeing to it that he was in the [[group]] before they left [[Jerusalem]].

125:3.2 The [[Nazareth]] travelers did not miss [[Jesus]] because [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] surmised he [[journeyed]] with the [[men]], while [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] thought he [[traveled]] with the [[women]] since he had gone up to [[Jerusalem]] with the [[women]], leading [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s donkey. They did not [[discover]] his [[absence]] until they reached [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] and prepared to tarry for the night. After making [[inquiry]] of the last of the party to reach Jericho and learning that none of them had seen their son, they spent a sleepless night, turning over in their [[minds]] what might have happened to him, recounting many of his unusual [[reactions]] to the [[events]] of [[Passover]] week, and mildly chiding each other for not seeing to it that he was in the [[group]] before they left [[Jerusalem]].

==125:4. FIRST AND SECOND DAYS IN THE TEMPLE==

==125:4. FIRST AND SECOND DAYS IN THE TEMPLE==

125:4.1 In the meantime, [[Jesus]] had remained in the [[temple]] throughout the afternoon, listening to the [[discussions]] and enjoying the more [[quiet]] and decorous [[atmosphere]], the great crowds of [[Passover]] week having about disappeared. At the conclusion of the afternoon [[discussions]], in none of which [[Jesus]] participated, he betook himself to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(Biblical_village) Bethany], arriving just as Simon's [[family]] made ready to partake of their evening meal. The three youngsters were overjoyed to greet [[Jesus]], and he remained in Simon's house for the night. He visited very little during the evening, spending much of the time [[alone]] in the [[garden]] [[meditating]].

125:4.1 In the meantime, [[Jesus]] had remained in the [[temple]] throughout the afternoon, listening to the [[discussions]] and enjoying the more [[quiet]] and decorous [[atmosphere]], the great crowds of [[Passover]] week having about disappeared. At the conclusion of the afternoon [[discussions]], in none of which [[Jesus]] participated, he betook himself to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_(Biblical_village) Bethany], arriving just as Simon's [[family]] made ready to partake of their evening meal. The three youngsters were overjoyed to greet [[Jesus]], and he remained in Simon's house for the night. He visited very little during the evening, spending much of the time [[alone]] in the [[garden]] [[meditating]].

125:4.2 Early next day [[Jesus]] was up and on his way to the [[temple]]. On the brow of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet Olivet] he paused and wept over the [[sight]] his eyes beheld—a [[spiritually]] [[impoverished]] people, [[tradition]] bound and living under the [[surveillance]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Legion Roman legions]. Early forenoon found him in the [[temple]] with his [[mind]] made up to take part in the [[discussions]]. Meanwhile, [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] also had arisen with the early dawn with the [[intention]] of retracing their steps to [[Jerusalem]]. First, they hastened to the house of their [[relatives]], where they had lodged as a [[family]] during the [[Passover]] week, but [[inquiry]] elicited the fact that no one had seen [[Jesus]]. After searching all day and finding no trace of him, they returned to their [[relatives]] for the night.

125:4.2 Early next day [[Jesus]] was up and on his way to the [[temple]]. On the brow of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet Olivet] he paused and wept over the [[sight]] his eyes beheld—a [[spiritually]] [[impoverished]] people, [[tradition]] bound and living under the [[surveillance]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Legion Roman legions]. Early forenoon found him in the [[temple]] with his [[mind]] made up to take part in the [[discussions]]. Meanwhile, [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] also had arisen with the early dawn with the [[intention]] of retracing their steps to [[Jerusalem]]. First, they hastened to the house of their [[relatives]], where they had lodged as a [[family]] during the [[Passover]] week, but [[inquiry]] elicited the fact that no one had seen [[Jesus]]. After searching all day and finding no trace of him, they returned to their [[relatives]] for the night.

125:4.3 At the second conference [[Jesus]] had made bold to ask questions, and in a very [[amazing]] way he [[participated]] in the [[temple]] [[discussions]] but always in a [[manner]] consistent with his [[youth]]. Sometimes his pointed questions were somewhat [[embarrassing]] to the learned [[teachers]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Law Jewish law], but he evinced such a [[spirit]] of candid [[fairness]], coupled with an evident [[hunger]] for [[knowledge]], that the [[majority]] of the temple [[teachers]] were disposed to treat him with every [[consideration]]. But when he presumed to question the [[justice]] of putting to [[death]] a drunken [[gentile]] who had wandered outside the [[court]] of the [[gentiles]] and unwittingly entered the forbidden and reputedly [[sacred]] precincts of the [[temple]], one of the more intolerant teachers grew impatient with the lad's implied [[criticisms]] and, glowering down upon him, asked how old he was. Jesus replied, " thirteen years lacking a trifle more than four months. " " Then, " rejoined the now irate teacher, " why are you here, since you are not of age as a son of the law? " And when [[Jesus]] explained that he had received [[consecration]] during the [[Passover]], and that he was a finished student of the [[Nazareth]] [[schools]], the teachers with one accord derisively replied, " We might have known; he is from [[Nazareth]]. " But the [[leader]] insisted that [[Jesus]] was not to be blamed if the rulers of the [[synagogue]] at [[Nazareth]] had graduated him, technically, when he was twelve instead of thirteen; and notwithstanding that several of his detractors got up and left, it was ruled that the lad might continue undisturbed as a [[pupil]] of the [[temple]] [[discussions]].

125:4.3 At the second conference [[Jesus]] had made bold to ask questions, and in a very [[amazing]] way he [[participated]] in the [[temple]] [[discussions]] but always in a [[manner]] consistent with his [[youth]]. Sometimes his pointed questions were somewhat [[embarrassing]] to the learned [[teachers]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Law Jewish law], but he evinced such a [[spirit]] of candid [[fairness]], coupled with an evident [[hunger]] for [[knowledge]], that the [[majority]] of the temple [[teachers]] were disposed to treat him with every [[consideration]]. But when he presumed to question the [[justice]] of putting to [[death]] a drunken [[gentile]] who had wandered outside the [[court]] of the [[gentiles]] and unwittingly entered the forbidden and reputedly [[sacred]] precincts of the [[temple]], one of the more intolerant teachers grew impatient with the lad's implied [[criticisms]] and, glowering down upon him, asked how old he was. Jesus replied, " thirteen years lacking a trifle more than four months. " " Then, " rejoined the now irate teacher, " why are you here, since you are not of age as a son of the law? " And when [[Jesus]] explained that he had received [[consecration]] during the [[Passover]], and that he was a finished student of the [[Nazareth]] [[schools]], the teachers with one accord derisively replied, " We might have known; he is from [[Nazareth]]. " But the [[leader]] insisted that [[Jesus]] was not to be blamed if the rulers of the [[synagogue]] at [[Nazareth]] had graduated him, technically, when he was twelve instead of thirteen; and notwithstanding that several of his detractors got up and left, it was ruled that the lad might continue undisturbed as a [[pupil]] of the [[temple]] [[discussions]].

125:4.4 When this, his second day in the [[temple]], was finished, again he went to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/_(Biblical_village) Bethany] for the night. And again he went out in the [[garden]] to [[meditate]] and [[pray]]. It was apparent that his [[mind]] was concerned with the [[contemplation]] of weighty [[problems]].

125:4.4 When this, his second day in the [[temple]], was finished, again he went to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/_(Biblical_village) Bethany] for the night. And again he went out in the [[garden]] to [[meditate]] and [[pray]]. It was apparent that his [[mind]] was concerned with the [[contemplation]] of weighty [[problems]].

==125:5. THE THIRD DAY IN THE TEMPLE==

==125:5. THE THIRD DAY IN THE TEMPLE==

125:5.1 [[Jesus]]' third day with the [[scribes]] and [[teachers]] in the temple witnessed the gathering of many [[spectators]] who, having heard of this [[youth]] from [[Galilee]], came to enjoy the [[experience]] of seeing a lad [[confuse]] the [[wise]] men of the [[law]]. Simon also came down from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_Biblical_village) Bethany] to see what the boy was up to. Throughout this day [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] continued their [[anxious]] search for [[Jesus]], even going several times into the [[temple]] but never thinking to scrutinize the several [[discussion]] [[groups]], although they once came almost within hearing distance of his fascinating [[voice]].

125:5.1 [[Jesus]]' third day with the [[scribes]] and [[teachers]] in the temple witnessed the gathering of many [[spectators]] who, having heard of this [[youth]] from [[Galilee]], came to enjoy the [[experience]] of seeing a lad [[confuse]] the [[wise]] men of the [[law]]. Simon also came down from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_Biblical_village) Bethany] to see what the boy was up to. Throughout this day [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] continued their [[anxious]] search for [[Jesus]], even going several times into the [[temple]] but never thinking to scrutinize the several [[discussion]] [[groups]], although they once came almost within hearing distance of his fascinating [[voice]].

125:5.2 Before the day had ended, the entire [[attention]] of the chief [[discussion]] [[group]] of the [[temple]] had become [[focused]] upon the questions being asked by [[Jesus]]. Among his many questions were:

125:5.2 Before the day had ended, the entire [[attention]] of the chief [[discussion]] [[group]] of the [[temple]] had become [[focused]] upon the questions being asked by [[Jesus]]. Among his many questions were:

*1. 125:5.3 What really exists in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_of_holies holy of holies], behind the veil?

*1. 125:5.3 What really exists in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_of_holies holy of holies], behind the veil?

*2. 125:5.4 Why should [[mothers]] in [[Israel]] be [[segregated]] from the [[male]] [[temple]] [[worship]]ers?

*2. 125:5.4 Why should [[mothers]] in [[Israel]] be [[segregated]] from the [[male]] [[temple]] [[worship]]ers?

*3. 125:5.5 If [[God]] is a [[father]] who [[loves]] his [[children]], why all this [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_slaughter slaughter] of animals to gain [[divine]] [[favor]]—has the teaching of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] been misunderstood?

*3. 125:5.5 If [[God]] is a [[father]] who [[loves]] his [[children]], why all this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_slaughter slaughter] of animals to gain [[divine]] [[favor]]—has the teaching of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] been misunderstood?

*4. 125:5.6 Since the [[temple]] is [[dedicated]] to the [[worship]] of [[the Father]] in heaven, is it [[consistent]] to [[permit]] the [[presence]] of those who [[engage]] in [[secular]] barter and [[trade]]?

*4. 125:5.6 Since the [[temple]] is [[dedicated]] to the [[worship]] of [[the Father]] in heaven, is it [[consistent]] to [[permit]] the [[presence]] of those who [[engage]] in [[secular]] barter and [[trade]]?

*5. 125:5.7 Is the expected [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism Messiah] to become a temporal prince to sit on the throne of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David], or is he to [[function]] as the [[light]] of life in the [[establishment]] of a [[spiritual]] kingdom?

*5. 125:5.7 Is the expected [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_messianism Messiah] to become a temporal prince to sit on the throne of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David], or is he to [[function]] as the [[light]] of life in the [[establishment]] of a [[spiritual]] kingdom?

125:5.8 And all the day through, those who listened [[marveled]] at these questions, and none was more astonished than Simon. For more than four hours this [[Nazareth]] [[youth]] plied these [[Jewish]] [[teachers]] with [[thought]]-provoking and [[heart]]-searching questions. He made few comments on the remarks of his [[elders]]. He conveyed his teaching by the questions he would ask. By the deft and [[subtle]] phrasing of a question he would at one and the same time [[challenge]] their teaching and suggest his own. In the [[manner]] of his asking a question there was an appealing combination of [[sagacity]] and [[humor]] which endeared him even to those who more or less resented his youthfulness. He was always eminently [[fair]] and considerate in the asking of these penetrating questions. On this eventful afternoon in the [[temple]] he exhibited that same reluctance to take unfair [[advantage]] of an [[opponent]] which characterized his entire subsequent [[public]] [[ministry]]. As a [[youth]], and later on as a man, he seemed to be utterly free from all [[egoistic]] [[desire]] to win an [[argument]] merely to [[experience]] [[logical]] triumph over his fellows, being interested [[supremely]] in just one thing: to [[proclaim]] everlasting [[truth]] and thus [[effect]] a fuller [[revelation]] of the [[eternal]] [[God]].

125:5.8 And all the day through, those who listened [[marveled]] at these questions, and none was more astonished than Simon. For more than four hours this [[Nazareth]] [[youth]] plied these [[Jewish]] [[teachers]] with [[thought]]-provoking and [[heart]]-searching questions. He made few comments on the remarks of his [[elders]]. He conveyed his teaching by the questions he would ask. By the deft and [[subtle]] phrasing of a question he would at one and the same time [[challenge]] their teaching and suggest his own. In the [[manner]] of his asking a question there was an appealing combination of [[sagacity]] and [[humor]] which endeared him even to those who more or less resented his youthfulness. He was always eminently [[fair]] and considerate in the asking of these penetrating questions. On this eventful afternoon in the [[temple]] he exhibited that same reluctance to take unfair [[advantage]] of an [[opponent]] which characterized his entire subsequent [[public]] [[ministry]]. As a [[youth]], and later on as a man, he seemed to be utterly free from all [[egoistic]] [[desire]] to win an [[argument]] merely to [[experience]] [[logical]] triumph over his fellows, being interested [[supremely]] in just one thing: to [[proclaim]] everlasting [[truth]] and thus [[effect]] a fuller [[revelation]] of the [[eternal]] [[God]].

125:5.9 When the day was over, Simon and [[Jesus]] wended their way back to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_Biblical_village) Bethany]. For most of the distance both the man and the boy were [[silent]]. Again [[Jesus]] paused on the brow of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet Olivet], but as he viewed the [[city]] and its [[temple]], he did not weep; he only bowed his head in [[silent]] [[devotion]].

125:5.9 When the day was over, Simon and [[Jesus]] wended their way back to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_Biblical_village) Bethany]. For most of the distance both the man and the boy were [[silent]]. Again [[Jesus]] paused on the brow of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet Olivet], but as he viewed the [[city]] and its [[temple]], he did not weep; he only bowed his head in [[silent]] [[devotion]].

125:5.10 After the evening meal at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_Biblical_village) Bethany] he again declined to join the merry circle but instead went to the [[garden]], where he lingered long into the night, vainly endeavoring to [[think]] out some definite [[plan]] of approach to the [[problem]] of his lifework and to [[decide]] how best he might [[labor]] to [[reveal]] to his spiritually blinded countrymen a more [[beautiful]] [[concept]] of the [[heavenly Father]] and so set them [[free]] from their terrible [[bondage]] to [[law]], [[ritual]], ceremonial, and musty [[tradition]]. But the clear [[light]] did not come to the [[truth]]-seeking lad.

125:5.10 After the evening meal at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany_Biblical_village) Bethany] he again declined to join the merry circle but instead went to the [[garden]], where he lingered long into the night, vainly endeavoring to [[think]] out some definite [[plan]] of approach to the [[problem]] of his lifework and to [[decide]] how best he might [[labor]] to [[reveal]] to his spiritually blinded countrymen a more [[beautiful]] [[concept]] of the [[heavenly Father]] and so set them [[free]] from their terrible [[bondage]] to [[law]], [[ritual]], ceremonial, and musty [[tradition]]. But the clear [[light]] did not come to the [[truth]]-seeking lad.

==125:6. THE FOURTH DAY IN THE TEMPLE==

==125:6. THE FOURTH DAY IN THE TEMPLE==

125:6.1 Jesus was strangely unmindful of his earthly parents; even at breakfast, when Lazarus's mother remarked that his parents must be about home by that time, Jesus did not seem to comprehend that they would be somewhat worried about his having lingered behind.

125:6.1 [[Jesus]] was strangely unmindful of his [[earth]]ly [[parents]]; even at breakfast, when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]'s [[mother]] remarked that his [[parents]] must be about [[home]] by that time, [[Jesus]] did not seem to [[comprehend]] that they would be somewhat worried about his having lingered behind.

125:6.2 Again he journeyed to the temple, but he did not pause to meditate at the brow of Olivet. In the course of the morning's discussions much time was devoted to the law and the prophets, and the teachers were astonished that Jesus was so familiar with the Scriptures, in Hebrew as well as Greek. But they were amazed not so much by his knowledge of truth as by his youth.

125:6.2 Again he [[journeyed]] to the [[temple]], but he did not pause to [[meditate]] at the brow of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olivet Olivet]. In the [[course]] of the morning's [[discussions]] much time was [[devoted]] to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nevi%27im the prophets], and the [[teachers]] were astonished that [[Jesus]] was so familiar with the [[Scriptures]], in [[Hebrew]] as well as [[Greek]]. But they were [[amazed]] not so much by his [[knowledge]] of [[truth]] as by his [[youth]].

125:6.3 At the afternoon conference they had hardly begun to answer his question relating to the purpose of prayer when the leader invited the lad to come forward and, sitting beside him, bade him state his own views regarding prayer and worship.

125:6.3 At the afternoon conference they had hardly begun to answer his question relating to the [[purpose]] of [[prayer]] when the [[leader]] invited the lad to come forward and, sitting beside him, bade him state his own [[views]] regarding [[prayer]] and [[worship]].

125:6.4 The evening before, Jesus' parents had heard about this strange youth who so deftly sparred with the expounders of the law, but it had not occurred to them that this lad was their son. They had about decided to journey out to the home of Zacharias as they thought Jesus might have gone thither to see Elizabeth and John. Thinking Zacharias might perhaps be at the temple, they stopped there on their way to the City of Judah. As they strolled through the courts of the temple, imagine their surprise and amazement when they recognized the voice of the missing lad and beheld him seated among the temple teachers.

125:6.4 The evening before, [[Jesus]]' parents had heard about this strange [[youth]] who so deftly sparred with the expounders of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torah the law], but it had not occurred to them that this lad was their son. They had about [[decided]] to [[journey]] out to the [[home]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zechariah_(priest) Zacharias] as they thought [[Jesus]] might have gone thither to see [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_(Biblical_person) Elizabeth] and [[John the Baptist|John]]. Thinking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zechariah_(priest) Zacharias] might perhaps be at the [[temple]], they stopped there on their way to the [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_of_Judah City of Judah]. As they strolled through the [[courts]] of the [[temple]], imagine their [[surprise]] and [[amazement]] when they recognized the [[voice]] of the missing lad and beheld him seated among the [[temple]] [[teachers]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_2]

125:6.5 Joseph was speechless, but Mary gave vent to her long-pent-up fear and anxiety when, rushing up to the lad, now standing to greet his astonished parents, she said: " My child, why have you treated us like this? It is now more than three days that your father and I have searched for you sorrowing. Whatever possessed you to desert us? " It was a tense moment. All eyes were turned on Jesus to hear what he would say. His father looked reprovingly at him but said nothing.

125:6.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was speechless, but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] gave vent to her long-pent-up [[fear]] and [[anxiety]] when, rushing up to the lad, now standing to greet his astonished [[parents]], she said: " My child, why have you treated us like this? It is now more than three days that your [[father]] and I have searched for you sorrowing. Whatever possessed you to desert us? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_2] It was a tense [[moment]]. All eyes were turned on [[Jesus]] to hear what he would say. His [[father]] looked reprovingly at him but said nothing.

125:6.6 It should be remembered that Jesus was supposed to be a young man. He had finished the regular schooling of a child, had been recognized as a son of the law, and had received consecration as a citizen of Israel. And yet his mother more than mildly upbraided him before all the people assembled, right in the midst of the most serious and sublime effort of his young life, thus bringing to an inglorious termination one of the greatest opportunities ever to be granted him to function as a teacher of truth, a preacher of righteousness, a revealer of the loving character of his Father in heaven.

125:6.6 It should be remembered that [[Jesus]] was supposed to be a [[young man]]. He had finished the regular schooling of a [[child]], had been recognized as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah son of the law], and had received [[consecration]] as a [[citizen]] of [[Israel]]. And yet his mother more than mildly upbraided him before all the people assembled, right in the midst of the most serious and [[sublime]] [[effort]] of his [[young life]], thus bringing to an inglorious termination one of the greatest [[opportunities]] ever to be granted him to [[function]] as a [[teacher]] of [[truth]], a preacher of righteousness, a revealer of the loving [[character]] of [[Universal Father|his Father]] in heaven.

125:6.7 But the lad was equal to the occasion. When you take into fair consideration all the factors which combined to make up this situation, you will be better prepared to fathom the wisdom of the boy's reply to his mother's unintended rebuke. After a moment's thought, Jesus answered his mother, saying: " Why is it that you have so long sought me? Would you not expect to find me in my Father's house since the time has come when I should be about my Father's business? "

125:6.7 But the lad was [[equal]] to the occasion. When you take into fair [[consideration]] all the [[factors]] which combined to make up this situation, you will be better [[prepared]] to fathom the [[wisdom]] of the boy's reply to his [[mother]]'s unintended rebuke. After a [[moment]]'s [[thought]], [[Jesus]] answered his [[mother]], saying: " Why is it that you have so long sought me? Would you not expect to find me in [[my Father]]'s house since the [[time]] has come when I should be about my Father's business? "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_2]

125:6.8 Everyone was astonished at the lad's manner of speaking. Silently they all withdrew and left him standing alone with his parents. Presently the young man relieved the embarrassment of all three when he quietly said: " Come, my parents, none has done aught but that which he thought best. Our Father in heaven has ordained these things; let us depart for home. "

125:6.8 Everyone was astonished at the lad's [[manner]] of [[speaking]]. [[Silently]] they all withdrew and left him standing [[alone]] with his [[parents]]. Presently the [[young man]] relieved the [[embarrassment]] of all [[three]] when he quietly said: " Come, my [[parents]], none has done aught but that which he thought best. [[Our Father]] in heaven has [[ordained]] these things; let us depart for [[home]]. "

125:6.9 In silence they started out, arriving at Jericho for the night. Only once did they pause, and that on the brow of Olivet, when the lad raised his staff aloft and, quivering from head to foot under the surging of intense emotion, said: " O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, and the people thereof, what slaves you are—subservient to the Roman yoke and victims of your own traditions—but I will return to cleanse yonder temple and deliver my people from this bondage! "

125:6.9 In [[silence]] they started out, arriving at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho] for the night. Only once did they pause, and that on the brow of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Olivet], when the lad raised his staff aloft and, quivering from head to foot under the surging of [[intense]] [[emotion]], said: " O [[Jerusalem]], Jerusalem, and the people thereof, what [[slaves]] you are—subservient to the [[Roman]] yoke and [[victims]] of your own [[traditions]]—but I will return to cleanse yonder [[temple]] and deliver my people from this [[bondage]]! "

125:6.10 On the three days' journey to Nazareth Jesus said little; neither did his parents say much in his presence. They were truly at a loss to understand the conduct of their first-born son, but they did treasure in their hearts his sayings, even though they could not fully comprehend their meanings.

125:6.10 On the three days' [[journey]] to [[Nazareth]] [[Jesus]] said little; neither did his [[parents]] say much in his [[presence]]. They were truly at a loss to [[understand]] the [[conduct]] of their first-born son, but they did [[treasure]] in their [[hearts]] his sayings, even though they could not fully [[comprehend]] their [[meanings]].

125:6.11 Upon reaching home, Jesus made a brief statement to his parents, assuring them of his affection and implying that they need not fear he would again give any occasion for their suffering anxiety because of his conduct. He concluded this momentous statement by saying: " While I must do the will of my Father in heaven, I will also be obedient to my father on earth. I will await my hour. "

125:6.11 Upon reaching [[home]], [[Jesus]] made a brief [[statement]] to his [[parents]], [[assuring]] them of his [[affection]] and implying that they need not [[fear]] he would again give any occasion for their [[suffering]] [[anxiety]] because of his [[conduct]]. He concluded this momentous [[statement]] by saying: " While I must [[Doing the will of God|do the will of my Father in [[heaven]]]], I will also be [[obedient]] to my father on earth. I will await my hour. "

125:6.12 Though Jesus, in his mind, would many times refuse to consent to the well-intentioned but misguided efforts of his parents to dictate the course of his thinking or to establish the plan of his work on earth, still, in every manner consistent with his dedication to the doing of his Paradise Father's will, he did most gracefully conform to the desires of his earthly father and to the usages of his family in the flesh. Even when he could not consent, he would do everything possible to conform. He was an artist in the matter of adjusting his dedication to duty to his obligations of family loyalty and social service.

125:6.12 Though [[Jesus]], in his mind, would many times refuse to [[consent]] to the well-[[intentioned]] but misguided [[efforts]] of his [[parents]] to [[Control|dictate]] the [[course]] of his [[thinking]] or to establish the [[plan]] of his [[work]] on [[earth]], still, in every [[manner]] [[consistent]] with his [[dedication]] to the [[Doing the will of God|doing of his Paradise Father's will]], he did most [[gracefully]] [[conform]] to the [[desires]] of his earthly [[father]] and to the [[Practice|usages]] of his [[family]] in the [[flesh]]. Even when he could not [[consent]], he would do everything possible to [[conform]]. He was an artist in the matter of [[adjusting]] his [[dedication]] to [[duty]] to his [[obligations]] of [[family]] [[loyalty]] and [[social]] [[service]].

125:6.13 Joseph was puzzled, but Mary, as she reflected on these experiences, gained comfort, eventually viewing his utterance on Olivet as prophetic of the Messianic mission of her son as Israel's deliverer. She set to work with renewed energy to mold his thoughts into patriotic and nationalistic channels and enlisted the efforts of her brother, Jesus' favorite uncle; and in every other way did the mother of Jesus address herself to the task of preparing her first-born son to assume the leadership of those who would restore the throne of David and forever cast off the gentile yoke of political bondage.

125:6.13 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was puzzled, but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary], as she [[reflected]] on these [[experiences]], gained [[comfort]], eventually viewing his utterance on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Olivet] as [[prophetic]] of the [[Messianic]] [[mission]] of her son as [[Israel]]'s deliverer. She set to [[work]] with renewed [[energy]] to mold his [[thoughts]] into [[patriotic]] and [[nationalistic]] [[channels]] and enlisted the [[efforts]] of her brother, Jesus' favorite uncle; and in every other way did the [[mother]] of [[Jesus]] address herself to the task of [[preparing]] her first-born son to [[assume]] the [[leadership]] of those who would restore the throne of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David David] and forever cast off the [[gentile]] yoke of [[political]] [[bondage]].

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[[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]

[[Category: PART IV: The Life and Teachings of Jesus]]