Changes

==PAPER 124: THE LATER CHILDHOOD OF JESUS==

==PAPER 124: THE LATER CHILDHOOD OF JESUS==

124:0.1 Although [[Jesus]] might have enjoyed a better [[opportunity]] for [[schooling]] at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria] than in [[Galilee]], he could not have had such a splendid [[environment]] for working out his own life [[problems]] with a minimum of [[educational]] [[guidance]], at the same time enjoying the great [[advantage]] of constantly contacting with such a large [[number]] of all [[classes]] of [[men]] and [[women]] hailing from every part of the civilized world. Had he remained at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria], his [[education]] would have been directed by [[Jews]] and along exclusively Jewish lines. At [[Nazareth]] he secured an [[education]] and received a [[training]] which more acceptably [[prepared]] him to [[understand]] the [[gentiles]], and which gave him a better and more [[balanced]] [[idea]] of the [[relative]] [[merits]] of the Eastern, or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylonia Babylonian], and the [[Western]], or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenism Hellenic], views of [[Hebrew]] [[theology]].

124:0.1 Although [[Jesus]] might have enjoyed a better [[opportunity]] for [[schooling]] at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria] than in [[Galilee]], he could not have had such a splendid [[environment]] for working out his own life [[problems]] with a minimum of [[educational]] [[guidance]], at the same time enjoying the great [[advantage]] of constantly contacting with such a large [[number]] of all [[classes]] of [[men]] and [[women]] hailing from every part of the civilized world. Had he remained at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria Alexandria], his [[education]] would have been directed by [[Jews]] and along exclusively Jewish lines. At [[Nazareth]] he secured an [[education]] and received a [[training]] which more acceptably [[prepared]] him to [[understand]] the [[gentiles]], and which gave him a better and more [[balanced]] [[idea]] of the [[relative]] [[merits]] of the Eastern, or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylonia Babylonian], and the [[Western]], or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellenism Hellenic], views of [[Hebrew]] [[theology]].

==124:1. JESUS' NINTH YEAR (A.D. 3)==

==124:1. JESUS' NINTH YEAR (A.D. 3)==

124:1.1 Though it could hardly be said that [[Jesus]] was ever seriously [[ill]], he did have some of the minor ailments of [[childhood]] this year, along with his [[brothers]] and baby sister.

124:1.1 Though it could hardly be said that [[Jesus]] was ever seriously [[ill]], he did have some of the minor ailments of [[childhood]] this year, along with his [[brothers]] and baby sister.

124:1.2 School went on and he was still a [[favored]] [[pupil]], having one week each month at [[liberty]], and he continued to divide his time about equally between [[trips]] to [[neighboring]] [[cities]] with his [[father]], sojourns on his uncle's [[farm]] south of [[Nazareth]], and fishing excursions out from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdala Magdala].

124:1.2 School went on and he was still a [[favored]] [[pupil]], having one week each month at [[liberty]], and he continued to divide his time about equally between [[trips]] to [[neighboring]] [[cities]] with his [[father]], sojourns on his uncle's [[farm]] south of [[Nazareth]], and fishing excursions out from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdala Magdala].

124:1.3 The most serious [[trouble]] as yet to come up at [[school]] occurred in late [[winter]] when [[Jesus]] dared to challenge the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazan chazan] regarding the [[teaching]] that all [[images]], pictures, and [[drawings]] were [[idolatrous]] in [[nature]]. [[Jesus]] delighted in [[drawing]] [[landscapes]] as well as in modeling a great variety of objects in potter's [[clay]]. Everything of that sort was strictly forbidden by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law Jewish law], but up to this time he had managed to disarm his [[parents]]' objection to such an extent that they had permitted him to continue in these [[activities]].

124:1.3 The most serious [[trouble]] as yet to come up at [[school]] occurred in late [[winter]] when [[Jesus]] dared to challenge the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazan chazan] regarding the [[teaching]] that all [[images]], pictures, and [[drawings]] were [[idolatrous]] in [[nature]]. [[Jesus]] delighted in [[drawing]] [[landscapes]] as well as in modeling a great variety of objects in potter's [[clay]]. Everything of that sort was strictly forbidden by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_law Jewish law], but up to this time he had managed to disarm his [[parents]]' objection to such an extent that they had permitted him to continue in these [[activities]].

124:1.4 But [[trouble]] was again stirred up at [[school]] when one of the more backward [[pupils]] [[discovered]] [[Jesus]] drawing a charcoal picture of the [[teacher]] on the floor of the schoolroom. There it was, plain as day, and many of the [[elders]] had viewed it before the committee went to call on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] to demand that something be done to suppress the lawlessness of his eldest son. And though this was not the first time complaints had come to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] about the doings of their [[versatile]] and [[aggressive]] child, this was the most serious of all the [[accusations]] which had thus far been lodged against him. [[Jesus]] listened to the [[indictment]] of his artistic [[efforts]] for some time, being seated on a large stone just outside the back door. He resented their blaming his [[father]] for his alleged misdeeds; so in he marched, fearlessly [[confronting]] his accusers. The [[elders]] were thrown into [[confusion]]. Some were inclined to view the [[episode]] [[humorously]], while one or two seemed to [[think]] the boy was [[sacrilegious]] if not [[blasphemous]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was nonplused, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] indignant, but [[Jesus]] insisted on being heard. He had his say, [[courageously]] defended his [[viewpoint]], and with consummate [[self-control]] announced that he would abide by the [[decision]] of his [[father]] in this as in all other matters [[controversial]]. And the committee of elders departed in [[silence]].

124:1.4 But [[trouble]] was again stirred up at [[school]] when one of the more backward [[pupils]] [[discovered]] [[Jesus]] drawing a charcoal picture of the [[teacher]] on the floor of the schoolroom. There it was, plain as day, and many of the [[elders]] had viewed it before the committee went to call on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] to demand that something be done to suppress the lawlessness of his eldest son. And though this was not the first time complaints had come to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] about the doings of their [[versatile]] and [[aggressive]] child, this was the most serious of all the [[accusations]] which had thus far been lodged against him. [[Jesus]] listened to the [[indictment]] of his artistic [[efforts]] for some time, being seated on a large stone just outside the back door. He resented their blaming his [[father]] for his alleged misdeeds; so in he marched, fearlessly [[confronting]] his accusers. The [[elders]] were thrown into [[confusion]]. Some were inclined to view the [[episode]] [[humorously]], while one or two seemed to [[think]] the boy was [[sacrilegious]] if not [[blasphemous]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was nonplused, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] indignant, but [[Jesus]] insisted on being heard. He had his say, [[courageously]] defended his [[viewpoint]], and with consummate [[self-control]] announced that he would abide by the [[decision]] of his [[father]] in this as in all other matters [[controversial]]. And the committee of elders departed in [[silence]].

124:1.5 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] endeavored to [[influence]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] to permit [[Jesus]] to model in clay at [[home]], provided he promised not to carry on any of these questionable [[activities]] at [[school]], but [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] felt impelled to rule that the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbinic_Judaism rabbinical] [[interpretation]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_commandments#Division_according_to_different_religions second commandment] should prevail. And so [[Jesus]] no more drew or modeled the likeness of anything from that day as long as he lived in his [[father]]'s house. But he was unconvinced of the wrong of what he had done, and to give up such a [[favorite]] pastime constituted one of the great [[trials]] of his [[young life]].

124:1.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] endeavored to [[influence]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] to permit [[Jesus]] to model in clay at [[home]], provided he promised not to carry on any of these questionable [[activities]] at [[school]], but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] felt impelled to rule that the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbinic_Judaism rabbinical] [[interpretation]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_commandments#Division_according_to_different_religions second commandment] should prevail. And so [[Jesus]] no more drew or modeled the likeness of anything from that day as long as he lived in his [[father]]'s house. But he was unconvinced of the wrong of what he had done, and to give up such a [[favorite]] pastime constituted one of the great [[trials]] of his [[young life]].

124:1.6 In the latter part of June, [[Jesus]], in company with his [[father]], first climbed to the [[summit]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Tabor Mount Tabor]. It was a clear day and the view was [[superb]]. It seemed to this nine-year-old lad that he had really gazed upon the entire world excepting [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_India India], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa Africa], and [[Rome]].

124:1.6 In the latter part of June, [[Jesus]], in company with his [[father]], first climbed to the [[summit]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Tabor Mount Tabor]. It was a clear day and the view was [[superb]]. It seemed to this nine-year-old lad that he had really gazed upon the entire world excepting [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_India India], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa Africa], and [[Rome]].

124:1.7 [[Jesus]]' second sister, Martha, was born Thursday night, September 13. Three weeks after the coming of Martha, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph], who was [[home]] for awhile, started the building of an addition to their [[house]], a combined workshop and bedroom. A small workbench was built for [[Jesus]], and for the first time he possessed [[tools]] of his own. At odd times for many years he worked at this bench and became highly expert in the making of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoke yokes].

124:1.7 [[Jesus]]' second sister, Martha, was born Thursday night, September 13. Three weeks after the coming of Martha, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph], who was [[home]] for awhile, started the building of an addition to their [[house]], a combined workshop and bedroom. A small workbench was built for [[Jesus]], and for the first time he possessed [[tools]] of his own. At odd times for many years he worked at this bench and became highly expert in the making of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoke yokes].

124:1.8 This [[winter]] and the next were the coldest in [[Nazareth]] for many decades. [[Jesus]] had seen [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snow snow] on the [[mountains]], and several times it had fallen in [[Nazareth]], remaining on the ground only a short time; but not until this [[winter]] had he seen [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice ice]. The [[fact]] that [[water]] could be had as a [[solid]], a [[liquid]], and a [[vapor]]—he had long [[pondered]] over the escaping [[steam]] from the [[boiling]] pots—caused the lad to [[think]] a great deal about the [[physical]] world and its [[constitution]]; and yet the [[personality]] [[embodied]] in this growing [[youth]] was all this while the [[actual]] [[creator]] and [[organizer]] of all these [[things]] throughout a far-flung [[universe]].

124:1.8 This [[winter]] and the next were the coldest in [[Nazareth]] for many decades. [[Jesus]] had seen [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snow snow] on the [[mountains]], and several times it had fallen in [[Nazareth]], remaining on the ground only a short time; but not until this [[winter]] had he seen [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice ice]. The [[fact]] that [[water]] could be had as a [[solid]], a [[liquid]], and a [[vapor]]—he had long [[pondered]] over the escaping [[steam]] from the [[boiling]] pots—caused the lad to [[think]] a great deal about the [[physical]] world and its [[constitution]]; and yet the [[personality]] [[embodied]] in this growing [[youth]] was all this while the [[actual]] [[creator]] and [[organizer]] of all these [[things]] throughout a far-flung [[universe]].

124:1.9 The [[climate]] of [[Nazareth]] was not severe. January was the coldest month, the [[temperature]] averaging around 50° F. During July and August, the hottest months, the temperature would vary from 75° to 90° F. From the [[mountains]] to the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valle_(Middle_East) Jordan] and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_sea#Geography Dead Sea valley] the climate of [[Palestine]] ranged from the frigid to the torrid. And so, in a way, the [[Jews]] were [[prepared]] to live in about any and all of the world's varying [[climates]].

124:1.9 The [[climate]] of [[Nazareth]] was not severe. January was the coldest month, the [[temperature]] averaging around 50° F. During July and August, the hottest months, the temperature would vary from 75° to 90° F. From the [[mountains]] to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valle_(Middle_East) Jordan] and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_sea#Geography Dead Sea valley] the climate of [[Palestine]] ranged from the frigid to the torrid. And so, in a way, the [[Jews]] were [[prepared]] to live in about any and all of the world's varying [[climates]].

124:1.10 Even during the warmest [[summer]] months a cool [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_breeze sea breeze] usually blew from the west from 10:00 A.M. until about 10:00 P.M. But every now and then terrific hot [[winds]] from the eastern [[desert]] would blow across all [[Palestine]]. These hot blasts usually came in February and March, near the end of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wet_season rainy season]. In those days the rain fell in refreshing showers from November to April, but it did not rain steadily. There were only two [[seasons]] in [[Palestine]], [[summer]] and [[winter]], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_season dry] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wet_season rainy seasons]. In January the flowers began to bloom, and by the end of April the whole land was one vast flower [[garden]].

124:1.10 Even during the warmest [[summer]] months a cool [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_breeze sea breeze] usually blew from the west from 10:00 A.M. until about 10:00 P.M. But every now and then terrific hot [[winds]] from the eastern [[desert]] would blow across all [[Palestine]]. These hot blasts usually came in February and March, near the end of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wet_season rainy season]. In those days the rain fell in refreshing showers from November to April, but it did not rain steadily. There were only two [[seasons]] in [[Palestine]], [[summer]] and [[winter]], the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_season dry] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wet_season rainy seasons]. In January the flowers began to bloom, and by the end of April the whole land was one vast flower [[garden]].

124:1.11 In May of this year, on his uncle's [[farm]], [[Jesus]] for the first time helped with the [[harvest]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grain grain]. Before he was thirteen, he had managed to find out something about practically [[everything]] that [[men]] and [[women]] worked at around [[Nazareth]] except [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metallurgy metal working], and he spent several months in a smith's shop when older, after the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_126#126:2._THE_DEATH_OF_JOSEPH death] of his [[father]].

124:1.11 In May of this year, on his uncle's [[farm]], [[Jesus]] for the first time helped with the [[harvest]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grain grain]. Before he was thirteen, he had managed to find out something about practically [[everything]] that [[men]] and [[women]] worked at around [[Nazareth]] except [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metallurgy metal working], and he spent several months in a smith's shop when older, after the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_126#126:2._THE_DEATH_OF_JOSEPH death] of his [[father]].

124:1.12 When [[work]] and [[caravan]] [[travel]] were slack, [[Jesus]] made many trips with his [[father]] on [[pleasure]] or [[business]] to nearby [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cana Cana], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endor_(village) Endor], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nain,_Israel Nain]. Even as a lad he frequently visited [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris], only a little over three miles from [[Nazareth]] to the northwest, and from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4_BC 4 B.C.] to about [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/25_AD A.D. 25] the capital of [[Galilee]] and one of the residences of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod Antipas].

124:1.12 When [[work]] and [[caravan]] [[travel]] were slack, [[Jesus]] made many trips with his [[father]] on [[pleasure]] or [[business]] to nearby [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cana Cana], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endor_(village) Endor], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nain,_Israel Nain]. Even as a lad he frequently visited [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris], only a little over three miles from [[Nazareth]] to the northwest, and from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4_BC 4 B.C.] to about [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/25_AD A.D. 25] the capital of [[Galilee]] and one of the residences of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Antipas Herod Antipas].

124:1.13 [[Jesus]] continued to grow [[physically]], [[intellectually]], [[socially]], and [[spiritually]]. His trips away from [[home]] did much to give him a better and more [[generous]] [[understanding]] of his own [[family]], and by this time even his [[parents]] were beginning to [[learn]] from him as well as to [[teach]] him. [[Jesus]] was an [[original]] [[thinker]] and a [[skillful]] [[teacher]], even in his [[youth]]. He was in constant [[collision]] with the so-called " [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oral_law oral law], " but he always sought to [[adapt]] himself to the [[practices]] of his [[family]]. He got along fairly well with the [[children]] of his age, but he often grew discouraged with their slow-acting [[minds]]. Before he was ten years old, he had become the [[leader]] of a group of [[seven]] lads who formed themselves into a [[society]] for promoting the acquirements of manhood—[[physical]], [[intellectual]], and [[religious]]. Among these boys [[Jesus]] succeeded in introducing many new [[games]] and various improved [[methods]] of [[physical]] [[recreation]].

124:1.13 [[Jesus]] continued to grow [[physically]], [[intellectually]], [[socially]], and [[spiritually]]. His trips away from [[home]] did much to give him a better and more [[generous]] [[understanding]] of his own [[family]], and by this time even his [[parents]] were beginning to [[learn]] from him as well as to [[teach]] him. [[Jesus]] was an [[original]] [[thinker]] and a [[skillful]] [[teacher]], even in his [[youth]]. He was in constant [[collision]] with the so-called " [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oral_law oral law], " but he always sought to [[adapt]] himself to the [[practices]] of his [[family]]. He got along fairly well with the [[children]] of his age, but he often grew discouraged with their slow-acting [[minds]]. Before he was ten years old, he had become the [[leader]] of a group of [[seven]] lads who formed themselves into a [[society]] for promoting the acquirements of manhood—[[physical]], [[intellectual]], and [[religious]]. Among these boys [[Jesus]] succeeded in introducing many new [[games]] and various improved [[methods]] of [[physical]] [[recreation]].

==124:2. THE TENTH YEAR (A.D. 4)==

==124:2. THE TENTH YEAR (A.D. 4)==

124:2.1 It was the fifth of July, the first [[Sabbath]] of the month, when [[Jesus]], while strolling through the [[countryside]] with his [[father]], first gave [[expression]] to [[feelings]] and [[ideas]] which indicated that he was becoming [[self-conscious]] of the [[unusual]] [[nature]] of his life mission. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] [[listened]] [[attentively]] to the momentous [[words]] of his son but made few comments; he [[volunteered]] no [[information]]. The next day [[Jesus]] had a similar but longer talk with his [[mother]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] likewise [[listened]] to the pronouncements of the lad, but neither did she [[volunteer]] any [[information]]. It was almost two years before [[Jesus]] again spoke to his [[parents]] concerning this increasing [[revelation]] within his own [[consciousness]] regarding the [[nature]] of his [[personality]] and the [[character]] of his [[mission]] on [[earth]].

124:2.1 It was the fifth of July, the first [[Sabbath]] of the month, when [[Jesus]], while strolling through the [[countryside]] with his [[father]], first gave [[expression]] to [[feelings]] and [[ideas]] which indicated that he was becoming [[self-conscious]] of the [[unusual]] [[nature]] of his life mission. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] [[listened]] [[attentively]] to the momentous [[words]] of his son but made few comments; he [[volunteered]] no [[information]]. The next day [[Jesus]] had a similar but longer talk with his [[mother]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] likewise [[listened]] to the pronouncements of the lad, but neither did she [[volunteer]] any [[information]]. It was almost two years before [[Jesus]] again spoke to his [[parents]] concerning this increasing [[revelation]] within his own [[consciousness]] regarding the [[nature]] of his [[personality]] and the [[character]] of his [[mission]] on [[earth]].

124:2.2 He entered the advanced [[school]] of the [[synagogue]] in August. At school he was constantly [[creating]] [[trouble]] by the questions he [[persisted]] in asking. Increasingly he kept all [[Nazareth]] in more or less of a hubbub. His [[parents]] were loath to forbid his asking these disquieting questions, and his chief [[teacher]] was greatly [[intrigued]] by the lad's [[curiosity]], [[insight]], and [[hunger]] for [[knowledge]].

124:2.2 He entered the advanced [[school]] of the [[synagogue]] in August. At school he was constantly [[creating]] [[trouble]] by the questions he [[persisted]] in asking. Increasingly he kept all [[Nazareth]] in more or less of a hubbub. His [[parents]] were loath to forbid his asking these disquieting questions, and his chief [[teacher]] was greatly [[intrigued]] by the lad's [[curiosity]], [[insight]], and [[hunger]] for [[knowledge]].

124:2.3 [[Jesus]]' playmates saw nothing [[supernatural]] in his [[conduct]]; in most ways he was altogether like themselves. His interest in [[study]] was somewhat above the [[average]] but not wholly unusual. He did ask more [[questions]] at [[school]] than others in his [[class]].

124:2.3 [[Jesus]]' playmates saw nothing [[supernatural]] in his [[conduct]]; in most ways he was altogether like themselves. His interest in [[study]] was somewhat above the [[average]] but not wholly unusual. He did ask more [[questions]] at [[school]] than others in his [[class]].

124:2.4 Perhaps his most [[unusual]] and outstanding [[trait]] was his unwillingness to fight for his [[rights]]. Since he was such a well-[[developed]] lad for his age, it seemed [[strange]] to his playfellows that he was disinclined to [[defend]] himself even from injustice or when subjected to [[personal]] [[abuse]]. As it happened, he did not suffer much on account of this [[trait]] because of the [[friendship]] of Jacob, a [[neighbor]] boy, who was one year older. He was the son of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_mason stone mason], a [[business]] associate of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph]. Jacob was a great [[admirer]] of [[Jesus]] and made it his business to see that no one was [[permitted]] to impose upon [[Jesus]] because of his [[aversion]] to [[physical]] [[combat]]. Several times older and uncouth [[youths]] attacked [[Jesus]], relying upon his reputed docility, but they always [[suffered]] swift and certain [[retribution]] at the hands of his self-appointed [[champion]] and ever-ready defender, Jacob the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_mason stone mason]'s son.

124:2.4 Perhaps his most [[unusual]] and outstanding [[trait]] was his unwillingness to fight for his [[rights]]. Since he was such a well-[[developed]] lad for his age, it seemed [[strange]] to his playfellows that he was disinclined to [[defend]] himself even from injustice or when subjected to [[personal]] [[abuse]]. As it happened, he did not suffer much on account of this [[trait]] because of the [[friendship]] of Jacob, a [[neighbor]] boy, who was one year older. He was the son of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_mason stone mason], a [[business]] associate of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph]. Jacob was a great [[admirer]] of [[Jesus]] and made it his business to see that no one was [[permitted]] to impose upon [[Jesus]] because of his [[aversion]] to [[physical]] [[combat]]. Several times older and uncouth [[youths]] attacked [[Jesus]], relying upon his reputed docility, but they always [[suffered]] swift and certain [[retribution]] at the hands of his self-appointed [[champion]] and ever-ready defender, Jacob the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_mason stone mason]'s son.

124:2.5 [[Jesus]] was the generally [[accepted]] [[leader]] of the [[Nazareth]] lads who stood for the higher [[ideals]] of their day and [[generation]]. He was really loved by his [[youth]]ful [[associates]], not only because he was [[fair]], but also because he [[possessed]] a rare and [[understanding]] [[sympathy]] that betokened [[love]] and bordered on [[discreet]] [[compassion]].

124:2.5 [[Jesus]] was the generally [[accepted]] [[leader]] of the [[Nazareth]] lads who stood for the higher [[ideals]] of their day and [[generation]]. He was really loved by his [[youth]]ful [[associates]], not only because he was [[fair]], but also because he [[possessed]] a rare and [[understanding]] [[sympathy]] that betokened [[love]] and bordered on [[discreet]] [[compassion]].

124:2.6 This year he began to show a marked [[preference]] for the company of [[Elder|older]] persons. He delighted in talking over things [[cultural]], [[educational]], [[social]], [[economic]], [[political]], and [[religious]] with older [[minds]], and his depth of [[reasoning]] and keenness of [[observation]] so [[charmed]] his [[adult]] associates that they were always more than willing to [[visit]] with him. Until he became [[responsible]] for the [[support]] of the [[home]], his [[parents]] were constantly seeking to [[influence]] him to associate with those of his [[Peers|own age]], or more nearly his age, rather than with older and better-informed [[individuals]] for whom he evinced such a [[preference]].

124:2.6 This year he began to show a marked [[preference]] for the company of [[Elder|older]] persons. He delighted in talking over things [[cultural]], [[educational]], [[social]], [[economic]], [[political]], and [[religious]] with older [[minds]], and his depth of [[reasoning]] and keenness of [[observation]] so [[charmed]] his [[adult]] associates that they were always more than willing to [[visit]] with him. Until he became [[responsible]] for the [[support]] of the [[home]], his [[parents]] were constantly seeking to [[influence]] him to associate with those of his [[Peers|own age]], or more nearly his age, rather than with older and better-informed [[individuals]] for whom he evinced such a [[preference]].

124:2.7 Late this year he had a [[fishing]] [[experience]] of two months with his uncle on the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_of_Galilee Sea of Galilee], and he was very successful. Before [[attaining]] manhood, he had become an [[expert]] fisherman.

124:2.7 Late this year he had a [[fishing]] [[experience]] of two months with his uncle on the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_of_Galilee Sea of Galilee], and he was very successful. Before [[attaining]] manhood, he had become an [[expert]] fisherman.

124:2.8 His [[physical]] [[development]] continued; he was an advanced and [[privileged]] [[pupil]] at school; he got along fairly well at [[home]] with his younger brothers and sisters, having the [[advantage]] of being three and one-half years older than the oldest of the other [[children]]. He was well [[thought]] of in [[Nazareth]] except by the parents of some of the duller children, who often spoke of [[Jesus]] as being too pert, as lacking in proper [[humility]] and youthful reserve. He [[manifested]] a growing tendency to direct the [[play]] [[activities]] of his youthful associates into more serious and thoughtful [[channels]]. He was a born [[teacher]] and simply could not refrain from so [[functioning]], even when supposedly engaged in [[play]].

124:2.8 His [[physical]] [[development]] continued; he was an advanced and [[privileged]] [[pupil]] at school; he got along fairly well at [[home]] with his younger brothers and sisters, having the [[advantage]] of being three and one-half years older than the oldest of the other [[children]]. He was well [[thought]] of in [[Nazareth]] except by the parents of some of the duller children, who often spoke of [[Jesus]] as being too pert, as lacking in proper [[humility]] and youthful reserve. He [[manifested]] a growing tendency to direct the [[play]] [[activities]] of his youthful associates into more serious and thoughtful [[channels]]. He was a born [[teacher]] and simply could not refrain from so [[functioning]], even when supposedly engaged in [[play]].

124:2.9 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] early began to instruct [[Jesus]] in the [[diverse]] means of gaining a [[livelihood]], [[explaining]] the [[advantages]] of [[agriculture]] over [[industry]] and [[trade]]. [[Galilee]] was a more [[beautiful]] and prosperous district than [[Judea]], and it cost only about one fourth as much to live there as in [[Jerusalem]] and [[Judea]]. It was a province of [[agricultural]] villages and thriving [[industrial]] [[cities]], containing more than two hundred towns of over five thousand [[population]] and thirty of over fifteen thousand.

124:2.9 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] early began to instruct [[Jesus]] in the [[diverse]] means of gaining a [[livelihood]], [[explaining]] the [[advantages]] of [[agriculture]] over [[industry]] and [[trade]]. [[Galilee]] was a more [[beautiful]] and prosperous district than [[Judea]], and it cost only about one fourth as much to live there as in [[Jerusalem]] and [[Judea]]. It was a province of [[agricultural]] villages and thriving [[industrial]] [[cities]], containing more than two hundred towns of over five thousand [[population]] and thirty of over fifteen thousand.

124:2.10 When on his first [[trip]] with his [[father]] to [[observe]] the [[fishing]] [[industry]] on the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_of_Galilee lake of Galilee], [[Jesus]] had just about made up his [[mind]] to become a fisherman; but close [[association]] with his [[father]]'s [[vocation]] later on [[influenced]] him to become a [[carpenter]], while still later a combination of [[influences]] led him to the final [[choice]] of becoming a [[religious]] [[teacher]] of a new order.

124:2.10 When on his first [[trip]] with his [[father]] to [[observe]] the [[fishing]] [[industry]] on the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_of_Galilee lake of Galilee], [[Jesus]] had just about made up his [[mind]] to become a fisherman; but close [[association]] with his [[father]]'s [[vocation]] later on [[influenced]] him to become a [[carpenter]], while still later a combination of [[influences]] led him to the final [[choice]] of becoming a [[religious]] [[teacher]] of a new order.

==124:3. THE ELEVENTH YEAR (A.D. 5)==

==124:3. THE ELEVENTH YEAR (A.D. 5)==

124:3.1 Throughout this year the lad continued to make [[trips]] away from [[home]] with his [[father]], but he also frequently visited his uncle's [[farm]] and occasionally went over to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdala Magdala] to [[engage]] in [[fishing]] with the uncle who made his [[headquarters]] near that [[city]].

124:3.1 Throughout this year the lad continued to make [[trips]] away from [[home]] with his [[father]], but he also frequently visited his uncle's [[farm]] and occasionally went over to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magdala Magdala] to [[engage]] in [[fishing]] with the uncle who made his [[headquarters]] near that [[city]].

124:3.2 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] were often [[tempted]] to show some special [[favoritism]] for [[Jesus]] or otherwise to betray their [[knowledge]] that he was a [[child]] of [[promise]], a son of [[destiny]]. But both of his [[parents]] were extraordinarily [[wise]] and sagacious in all these matters. The few times they did in any [[manner]] [[exhibit]] any preference for him, even in the slightest [[degree]], the lad was quick to refuse all such special [[consideration]].

124:3.2 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] were often [[tempted]] to show some special [[favoritism]] for [[Jesus]] or otherwise to betray their [[knowledge]] that he was a [[child]] of [[promise]], a son of [[destiny]]. But both of his [[parents]] were extraordinarily [[wise]] and sagacious in all these matters. The few times they did in any [[manner]] [[exhibit]] any preference for him, even in the slightest [[degree]], the lad was quick to refuse all such special [[consideration]].

124:3.3 [[Jesus]] spent considerable [[time]] at the [[caravan]] supply shop, and by [[conversing]] with the [[travelers]] from all parts of the world, he acquired a store of [[information]] about [[international]] affairs that was [[amazing]], considering his age. This was the last year in which he enjoyed much [[free]] [[play]] and youthful joyousness. From this time on [[difficulties]] and [[responsibilities]] rapidly multiplied in the life of this [[youth]].

124:3.3 [[Jesus]] spent considerable [[time]] at the [[caravan]] supply shop, and by [[conversing]] with the [[travelers]] from all parts of the world, he acquired a store of [[information]] about [[international]] affairs that was [[amazing]], considering his age. This was the last year in which he enjoyed much [[free]] [[play]] and youthful joyousness. From this time on [[difficulties]] and [[responsibilities]] rapidly multiplied in the life of this [[youth]].

124:3.4 On Wednesday evening, June 24, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5_AD A.D. 5], Jude was born. Complications attended the [[birth]] of this, the seventh child. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] was so very ill for several weeks that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] remained at [[home]]. Jesus was very much occupied with errands for his [[father]] and with many [[duties]] occasioned by his [[mother]]'s serious illness. Never again did this [[youth]] find it possible to return to the childlike [[attitude]] of his earlier years. From the time of his [[mother]]'s illness—just before he was eleven years old—he was compelled to [[assume]] the [[responsibilities]] of the first-born son and to do all this one or two full years before these burdens should [[normally]] have fallen on his shoulders.

124:3.4 On Wednesday evening, June 24, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5_AD A.D. 5], Jude was born. Complications attended the [[birth]] of this, the seventh child. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] was so very ill for several weeks that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] remained at [[home]]. Jesus was very much occupied with errands for his [[father]] and with many [[duties]] occasioned by his [[mother]]'s serious illness. Never again did this [[youth]] find it possible to return to the childlike [[attitude]] of his earlier years. From the time of his [[mother]]'s illness—just before he was eleven years old—he was compelled to [[assume]] the [[responsibilities]] of the first-born son and to do all this one or two full years before these burdens should [[normally]] have fallen on his shoulders.

124:3.5 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazan chazan] spent one evening each week with [[Jesus]], helping him to master the [[Hebrew scriptures]]. He was greatly interested in the [[progress]] of his promising [[pupil]]; therefore was he willing to assist him in many ways. This [[Jewish]] [[pedagogue]] exerted a great [[influence]] upon this growing [[mind]], but he was never able to [[comprehend]] why [[Jesus]] was so indifferent to all his suggestions regarding the prospects of going to [[Jerusalem]] to continue his [[education]] under the [[learned]] [[rabbis]].

124:3.5 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazan chazan] spent one evening each week with [[Jesus]], helping him to master the [[Hebrew scriptures]]. He was greatly interested in the [[progress]] of his promising [[pupil]]; therefore was he willing to assist him in many ways. This [[Jewish]] [[pedagogue]] exerted a great [[influence]] upon this growing [[mind]], but he was never able to [[comprehend]] why [[Jesus]] was so indifferent to all his suggestions regarding the prospects of going to [[Jerusalem]] to continue his [[education]] under the [[learned]] [[rabbis]].

124:3.6 About the middle of May the lad accompanied his [[father]] on a [[business]] trip to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis], the chief [[Greek]] [[city]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis], the ancient [[Hebrew]] [[city]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethshean Beth-shean]. On the way [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] recounted much of the olden history of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saul King Saul], the [[Philistines]], and the subsequent [[events]] of [[Israel]]'s [[turbulent]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_ancient_Israel_and_Judah history]. [[Jesus]] was tremendously impressed with the clean [[appearance]] and well-ordered arrangement of this so-called [[heathen]] city. He [[marveled]] at the open-air [[theater]] and admired the [[beautiful]] marble [[temple]] dedicated to the [[worship]] of the " heathen " gods. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was much perturbed by the lad's [[enthusiasm]] and sought to counteract these [[favorable]] impressions by extolling the [[beauty]] and grandeur of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_temples Jewish temple] at [[Jerusalem]]. [[Jesus]] had often gazed [[curiously]] upon this magnificent [[Greek]] [[city]] from the hill of [[Nazareth]] and had many times inquired about its extensive [[public]] works and ornate buildings, but his [[father]] had always sought to avoid answering these questions. Now they were face to face with the [[beauties]] of this [[gentile]] city, and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] could not gracefully ignore [[Jesus]]' [[inquiries]].

124:3.6 About the middle of May the lad accompanied his [[father]] on a [[business]] trip to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis], the chief [[Greek]] [[city]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis], the ancient [[Hebrew]] [[city]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethshean Beth-shean]. On the way [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] recounted much of the olden history of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saul King Saul], the [[Philistines]], and the subsequent [[events]] of [[Israel]]'s [[turbulent]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_ancient_Israel_and_Judah history]. [[Jesus]] was tremendously impressed with the clean [[appearance]] and well-ordered arrangement of this so-called [[heathen]] city. He [[marveled]] at the open-air [[theater]] and admired the [[beautiful]] marble [[temple]] dedicated to the [[worship]] of the " heathen " gods. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was much perturbed by the lad's [[enthusiasm]] and sought to counteract these [[favorable]] impressions by extolling the [[beauty]] and grandeur of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_temples Jewish temple] at [[Jerusalem]]. [[Jesus]] had often gazed [[curiously]] upon this magnificent [[Greek]] [[city]] from the hill of [[Nazareth]] and had many times inquired about its extensive [[public]] works and ornate buildings, but his [[father]] had always sought to avoid answering these questions. Now they were face to face with the [[beauties]] of this [[gentile]] city, and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] could not gracefully ignore [[Jesus]]' [[inquiries]].

124:3.7 It so happened that just at this time the annual [[competitive]] [[games]] and [[public]] [[demonstrations]] of [[physical]] prowess between the [[Greek]] cities of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis] were in [[progress]] at the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis] amphitheater, and [[Jesus]] was insistent that his [[father]] take him to see the [[games]], and he was so insistent that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] hesitated to deny him. The boy was thrilled with the [[games]] and entered most heartily into the [[spirit]] of the [[demonstrations]] of [[physical]] [[development]] and [[athletic]] [[skill]]. Joseph was inexpressibly [[shocked]] to [[observe]] his son's [[enthusiasm]] as he beheld these exhibitions of " [[heathen]] " vaingloriousness. After the [[games]] were finished, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] received the [[surprise]] of his life when he heard [[Jesus]] express his [[approval]] of them and suggest that it would be [[good]] for the [[young men]] of [[Nazareth]] if they could be thus benefited by wholesome outdoor [[physical]] [[activities]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] talked [[earnestly]] and long with [[Jesus]] concerning the [[evil]] [[nature]] of such [[practices]], but he well knew that the lad was unconvinced.

124:3.7 It so happened that just at this time the annual [[competitive]] [[games]] and [[public]] [[demonstrations]] of [[physical]] prowess between the [[Greek]] cities of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decapolis Decapolis] were in [[progress]] at the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis] amphitheater, and [[Jesus]] was insistent that his [[father]] take him to see the [[games]], and he was so insistent that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] hesitated to deny him. The boy was thrilled with the [[games]] and entered most heartily into the [[spirit]] of the [[demonstrations]] of [[physical]] [[development]] and [[athletic]] [[skill]]. Joseph was inexpressibly [[shocked]] to [[observe]] his son's [[enthusiasm]] as he beheld these exhibitions of " [[heathen]] " vaingloriousness. After the [[games]] were finished, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] received the [[surprise]] of his life when he heard [[Jesus]] express his [[approval]] of them and suggest that it would be [[good]] for the [[young men]] of [[Nazareth]] if they could be thus benefited by wholesome outdoor [[physical]] [[activities]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] talked [[earnestly]] and long with [[Jesus]] concerning the [[evil]] [[nature]] of such [[practices]], but he well knew that the lad was unconvinced.

124:3.8 The only time [[Jesus]] ever saw his [[father]] [[angry]] with him was that night in their room at the inn when, in the [[course]] of their [[discussions]], the boy so far forgot the [[trends]] of [[Jewish]] [[thought]] as to suggest that they go back [[home]] and [[work]] for the building of an [[amphitheater]] at [[Nazareth]]. When [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] heard his first-born son [[express]] such un-Jewish sentiments, he forgot his usual [[calm]] demeanor and, seizing [[Jesus]] by the shoulder, angrily exclaimed, " My son, never again let me hear you give [[utterance]] to such an [[evil]] [[thought]] as long as you live. " [[Jesus]] was startled by his [[father]]'s display of [[emotion]]; he had never before been made to [[feel]] the [[personal]] sting of his father's indignation and was astonished and [[shocked]] beyond [[expression]]. He only replied, " Very well, my [[father]], it shall be so. " And never again did the boy even in the slightest [[manner]] allude to the [[games]] and other [[athletic]] [[activities]] of the [[Greeks]] as long as his [[father]] lived.

124:3.8 The only time [[Jesus]] ever saw his [[father]] [[angry]] with him was that night in their room at the inn when, in the [[course]] of their [[discussions]], the boy so far forgot the [[trends]] of [[Jewish]] [[thought]] as to suggest that they go back [[home]] and [[work]] for the building of an [[amphitheater]] at [[Nazareth]]. When [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] heard his first-born son [[express]] such un-Jewish sentiments, he forgot his usual [[calm]] demeanor and, seizing [[Jesus]] by the shoulder, angrily exclaimed, " My son, never again let me hear you give [[utterance]] to such an [[evil]] [[thought]] as long as you live. " [[Jesus]] was startled by his [[father]]'s display of [[emotion]]; he had never before been made to [[feel]] the [[personal]] sting of his father's indignation and was astonished and [[shocked]] beyond [[expression]]. He only replied, " Very well, my [[father]], it shall be so. " And never again did the boy even in the slightest [[manner]] allude to the [[games]] and other [[athletic]] [[activities]] of the [[Greeks]] as long as his [[father]] lived.

124:3.9 Later on, [[Jesus]] saw the [[Greek]] [[amphitheater]] at [[Jerusalem]] and learned how [[hate]]ful such [[things]] were from the [[Jewish]] [[point of view]]. Nevertheless, throughout his life he endeavored to introduce the [[idea]] of wholesome [[recreation]] into his [[personal]] [[plans]] and, as far as [[Jewish]] [[practice]] would [[permit]], into the later program of regular [[activities]] for his [[twelve apostles]].

124:3.9 Later on, [[Jesus]] saw the [[Greek]] [[amphitheater]] at [[Jerusalem]] and learned how [[hate]]ful such [[things]] were from the [[Jewish]] [[point of view]]. Nevertheless, throughout his life he endeavored to introduce the [[idea]] of wholesome [[recreation]] into his [[personal]] [[plans]] and, as far as [[Jewish]] [[practice]] would [[permit]], into the later program of regular [[activities]] for his [[twelve apostles]].

124:3.10 At the end of this eleventh year [[Jesus]] was a [[vigorous]], well-[[developed]], moderately [[humorous]], and fairly lighthearted [[youth]], but from this year on he was more and more given to peculiar [[seasons]] of [[profound]] [[meditation]] and serious [[contemplation]]. He was much given to [[thinking]] about how he was to carry out his [[obligations]] to his [[family]] and at the same time be [[obedient]] to [[the call]] of his [[mission]] to the world; already he had conceived that his [[ministry]] was not to be limited to the betterment of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jewish people].

124:3.10 At the end of this eleventh year [[Jesus]] was a [[vigorous]], well-[[developed]], moderately [[humorous]], and fairly lighthearted [[youth]], but from this year on he was more and more given to peculiar [[seasons]] of [[profound]] [[meditation]] and serious [[contemplation]]. He was much given to [[thinking]] about how he was to carry out his [[obligations]] to his [[family]] and at the same time be [[obedient]] to [[the call]] of his [[mission]] to the world; already he had conceived that his [[ministry]] was not to be limited to the betterment of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews Jewish people].

==124:4. THE TWELFTH YEAR (A.D. 6)==

==124:4. THE TWELFTH YEAR (A.D. 6)==

124:4.4 It was a trying [[experience]] for [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] to undertake the rearing of this unprecedented combination of [[divinity]] and [[humanity]], and they deserve great credit for so [[faithfully]] and successfully discharging their [[parental]] [[responsibilities]]. Increasingly [[Jesus]]' [[parents]] realized that there was something [[superhuman]] resident within this eldest son, but they never even faintly [[dreamed]] that this son of promise was indeed and in [[truth]] the [[actual]] [[creator]] of this [[local universe]] of [[things]] and [[beings]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] lived and died without ever [[learning]] that their son [[Jesus]] really was the Universe [[Creator]] [[incarnate]] in [[mortal]] [[flesh]].

124:4.4 It was a trying [[experience]] for [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] to undertake the rearing of this unprecedented combination of [[divinity]] and [[humanity]], and they deserve great credit for so [[faithfully]] and successfully discharging their [[parental]] [[responsibilities]]. Increasingly [[Jesus]]' [[parents]] realized that there was something [[superhuman]] resident within this eldest son, but they never even faintly [[dreamed]] that this son of promise was indeed and in [[truth]] the [[actual]] [[creator]] of this [[local universe]] of [[things]] and [[beings]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] lived and died without ever [[learning]] that their son [[Jesus]] really was the Universe [[Creator]] [[incarnate]] in [[mortal]] [[flesh]].

124:4.5 This year [[Jesus]] paid more [[attention]] than ever to [[music]], and he continued to [[teach]] the [[home]] [[school]] for his brothers and sisters. It was at about this time that the lad became keenly [[conscious]] of the [[difference]] between the [[viewpoints]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] regarding the [[nature]] of his mission. He pondered much over his [[parents]]' differing [[opinions]], often hearing their [[discussions]] when they [[thought]] he was sound [[asleep]]. More and more he inclined to the view of his [[father]], so that his [[mother]] was destined to be hurt by the [[realization]] that her son was [[gradually]] [[rejecting]] her [[guidance]] in matters having to do with his life [[career]]. And, as the years passed, this breach of [[understanding]] widened. Less and less did [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] [[comprehend]] the significance of [[Jesus]]' [[mission]], and increasingly was this good [[mother]] hurt by the failure of her [[favorite]] son to fulfill her fond [[expectations]].

124:4.5 This year [[Jesus]] paid more [[attention]] than ever to [[music]], and he continued to [[teach]] the [[home]] [[school]] for his brothers and sisters. It was at about this time that the lad became keenly [[conscious]] of the [[difference]] between the [[viewpoints]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] regarding the [[nature]] of his mission. He pondered much over his [[parents]]' differing [[opinions]], often hearing their [[discussions]] when they [[thought]] he was sound [[asleep]]. More and more he inclined to the view of his [[father]], so that his [[mother]] was destined to be hurt by the [[realization]] that her son was [[gradually]] [[rejecting]] her [[guidance]] in matters having to do with his life [[career]]. And, as the years passed, this breach of [[understanding]] widened. Less and less did [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] [[comprehend]] the significance of [[Jesus]]' [[mission]], and increasingly was this good [[mother]] hurt by the failure of her [[favorite]] son to fulfill her fond [[expectations]].

124:4.6 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] entertained a growing [[belief]] in the [[spiritual]] [[nature]] of [[Jesus]]' [[mission]]. And but for other and more important reasons it does seem unfortunate that he could not have lived to see the [[fulfillment]] of his [[concept]] of [[Jesus]]' [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 bestowal on earth].

124:4.6 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] entertained a growing [[belief]] in the [[spiritual]] [[nature]] of [[Jesus]]' [[mission]]. And but for other and more important reasons it does seem unfortunate that he could not have lived to see the [[fulfillment]] of his [[concept]] of [[Jesus]]' [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_120 bestowal on earth].

124:4.7 During his last year at [[school]], when he was twelve years old, [[Jesus]] remonstrated with his [[father]] about the [[Jewish]] [[custom]] of [[touch]]ing the bit of parchment nailed upon the doorpost each time on going into, or coming out of, the house and then kissing the finger that [[touched]] the parchment. As a part of this [[ritual]] it was customary to say, " The Lord shall preserve our going out and our coming in, from this time forth and even forevermore. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_121] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] had repeatedly instructed [[Jesus]] as to the reasons for not making [[images]] or [[drawing]] pictures, explaining that such [[creations]] might be used for [[idolatrous]] [[purposes]]. Though [[Jesus]] failed fully to grasp their proscriptions against [[images]] and pictures, he [[possessed]] a high [[concept]] of [[consistency]] and therefore pointed out to his [[father]] the essentially [[idolatrous]] [[nature]] of this [[habitual]] [[obeisance]] to the doorpost parchment. And [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] removed the parchment after [[Jesus]] had thus [[remonstrated]] with him.

124:4.7 During his last year at [[school]], when he was twelve years old, [[Jesus]] remonstrated with his [[father]] about the [[Jewish]] [[custom]] of [[touch]]ing the bit of parchment nailed upon the doorpost each time on going into, or coming out of, the house and then kissing the finger that [[touched]] the parchment. As a part of this [[ritual]] it was customary to say, " The Lord shall preserve our going out and our coming in, from this time forth and even forevermore. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_121] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:1._JOSEPH_AND_MARY Joseph and Mary] had repeatedly instructed [[Jesus]] as to the reasons for not making [[images]] or [[drawing]] pictures, explaining that such [[creations]] might be used for [[idolatrous]] [[purposes]]. Though [[Jesus]] failed fully to grasp their proscriptions against [[images]] and pictures, he [[possessed]] a high [[concept]] of [[consistency]] and therefore pointed out to his [[father]] the essentially [[idolatrous]] [[nature]] of this [[habitual]] [[obeisance]] to the doorpost parchment. And [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] removed the parchment after [[Jesus]] had thus [[remonstrated]] with him.

124:4.8 As time passed, [[Jesus]] did much to [[modify]] their [[practice]] of [[religious]] [[forms]], such as the [[family]] prayers and other [[customs]]. And it was possible to do many such [[things]] at [[Nazareth]], for its [[synagogue]] was under the [[influence]] of a [[liberal]] school of [[rabbis]], exemplified by the renowned [[Nazareth]] [[teacher]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbi_Jose Jose].

124:4.8 As time passed, [[Jesus]] did much to [[modify]] their [[practice]] of [[religious]] [[forms]], such as the [[family]] prayers and other [[customs]]. And it was possible to do many such [[things]] at [[Nazareth]], for its [[synagogue]] was under the [[influence]] of a [[liberal]] school of [[rabbis]], exemplified by the renowned [[Nazareth]] [[teacher]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbi_Jose Jose].

124:4.9 Throughout this and the two following years [[Jesus]] [[suffered]] great [[mental]] distress as the result of his constant [[effort]] to [[adjust]] his [[personal]] [[views]] of religious [[practices]] and [[social]] [[amenities]] to the [[established]] [[beliefs]] of his [[parents]]. He was distraught by the [[conflict]] between the urge to be [[loyal]] to his own [[convictions]] and the conscientious admonition of [[dutiful]] submission to his [[parents]]; his supreme [[conflict]] was between two great commands which were uppermost in his [[youthful]] [[mind]]. The one was: " Be [[loyal]] to the dictates of your highest [[convictions]] of [[truth]] and [[righteousness]]. " The other was: " [[Honor]] your [[father]] and [[mother]], for they have given you life and the nurture thereof. " However, he never shirked the [[responsibility]] of making the [[necessary]] daily [[adjustments]] between these realms of [[loyalty]] to one's [[personal]] [[convictions]] and [[duty]] toward one's [[family]], and he achieved the [[satisfaction]] of effecting an increasingly [[harmonious]] blending of [[personal]] convictions and [[family]] [[obligations]] into a masterful [[concept]] of [[group]] [[solidarity]] based upon [[loyalty]], [[fairness]], [[tolerance]], and [[love]].

124:4.9 Throughout this and the two following years [[Jesus]] [[suffered]] great [[mental]] distress as the result of his constant [[effort]] to [[adjust]] his [[personal]] [[views]] of religious [[practices]] and [[social]] [[amenities]] to the [[established]] [[beliefs]] of his [[parents]]. He was distraught by the [[conflict]] between the urge to be [[loyal]] to his own [[convictions]] and the conscientious admonition of [[dutiful]] submission to his [[parents]]; his supreme [[conflict]] was between two great commands which were uppermost in his [[youthful]] [[mind]]. The one was: " Be [[loyal]] to the dictates of your highest [[convictions]] of [[truth]] and [[righteousness]]. " The other was: " [[Honor]] your [[father]] and [[mother]], for they have given you life and the nurture thereof. " However, he never shirked the [[responsibility]] of making the [[necessary]] daily [[adjustments]] between these realms of [[loyalty]] to one's [[personal]] [[convictions]] and [[duty]] toward one's [[family]], and he achieved the [[satisfaction]] of effecting an increasingly [[harmonious]] blending of [[personal]] convictions and [[family]] [[obligations]] into a masterful [[concept]] of [[group]] [[solidarity]] based upon [[loyalty]], [[fairness]], [[tolerance]], and [[love]].

124:5.1 In this year the lad of [[Nazareth]] passed from boyhood to the beginning of young manhood; his [[voice]] began to [[change]], and other features of [[mind]] and [[body]] gave [[evidence]] of the oncoming [[status]] of [[Maturity|manhood]].

124:5.1 In this year the lad of [[Nazareth]] passed from boyhood to the beginning of young manhood; his [[voice]] began to [[change]], and other features of [[mind]] and [[body]] gave [[evidence]] of the oncoming [[status]] of [[Maturity|manhood]].

124:5.2 On Sunday night, January 9, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7_AD A.D. 7], his baby [[brother]], Amos, was born. Jude was not yet two years of age, and the baby sister, Ruth, was yet to come; so it may be seen that [[Jesus]] had a sizable [[family]] of small [[children]] left to his watchcare when his [[father]] met his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_126#126:2._THE_DEATH_OF_JOSEPH accidental death] the following year.

124:5.2 On Sunday night, January 9, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7_AD A.D. 7], his baby [[brother]], Amos, was born. Jude was not yet two years of age, and the baby sister, Ruth, was yet to come; so it may be seen that [[Jesus]] had a sizable [[family]] of small [[children]] left to his watchcare when his [[father]] met his [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_126#126:2._THE_DEATH_OF_JOSEPH accidental death] the following year.

124:5.3 It was about the middle of February that [[Jesus]] became [[human]]ly [[assured]] that he was [[destined]] to [[perform]] a [[mission]] on [[earth]] for the [[enlightenment]] of man and the [[revelation]] of [[God]]. Momentous [[decisions]], coupled with far-reaching [[plans]], were [[formulating]] in the [[mind]] of this [[youth]], who was, to outward [[appearances]], an [[average]] Jewish lad of [[Nazareth]]. The [[intelligent]] life of all [[Nebadon]] looked on with fascination and [[amazement]] as all this began to [[unfold]] in the [[thinking]] and [[acting]] of the now adolescent [[carpenter]]'s son.

124:5.3 It was about the middle of February that [[Jesus]] became [[human]]ly [[assured]] that he was [[destined]] to [[perform]] a [[mission]] on [[earth]] for the [[enlightenment]] of man and the [[revelation]] of [[God]]. Momentous [[decisions]], coupled with far-reaching [[plans]], were [[formulating]] in the [[mind]] of this [[youth]], who was, to outward [[appearances]], an [[average]] Jewish lad of [[Nazareth]]. The [[intelligent]] life of all [[Nebadon]] looked on with fascination and [[amazement]] as all this began to [[unfold]] in the [[thinking]] and [[acting]] of the now adolescent [[carpenter]]'s son.

124:5.4 On the first day of the week, March 20, A.D. 7, [[Jesus]] [[graduated]] from the [[course]] of [[training]] in the local [[school]] connected with the [[Nazareth]] [[synagogue]]. This was a great day in the life of any [[ambitious]] [[Jewish]] [[family]], the day when the first-born son was pronounced a " son of the commandment "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah] and the ransomed first-born of the Lord God of Israel, a " child of the [[Most High]] "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_82] and servant of the Lord of all the earth.

124:5.4 On the first day of the week, March 20, A.D. 7, [[Jesus]] [[graduated]] from the [[course]] of [[training]] in the local [[school]] connected with the [[Nazareth]] [[synagogue]]. This was a great day in the life of any [[ambitious]] [[Jewish]] [[family]], the day when the first-born son was pronounced a " son of the commandment "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bar_Mitzvah] and the ransomed first-born of the Lord God of Israel, a " child of the [[Most High]] "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Psalms#Psalm_82] and servant of the Lord of all the earth.

124:5.5 Friday of the week before, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] had come over from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris], where he was in charge of the [[work]] on a new [[Monument|public building]], to be present on this glad occasion. [[Jesus]]' [[teacher]] [[confidently]] believed that his alert and [[diligent]] [[pupil]] was destined to some outstanding [[career]], some distinguished [[mission]]. The [[elders]], notwithstanding all their [[trouble]] with [[Jesus]]' [[nonconformist]] [[tendencies]], were very [[proud]] of the lad and had already begun laying [[plans]] which would enable him to go to [[Jerusalem]] to continue his [[education]] in the renowned [[Hebrew]] [[University|academies]].

124:5.5 Friday of the week before, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] had come over from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepphoris Sepphoris], where he was in charge of the [[work]] on a new [[Monument|public building]], to be present on this glad occasion. [[Jesus]]' [[teacher]] [[confidently]] believed that his alert and [[diligent]] [[pupil]] was destined to some outstanding [[career]], some distinguished [[mission]]. The [[elders]], notwithstanding all their [[trouble]] with [[Jesus]]' [[nonconformist]] [[tendencies]], were very [[proud]] of the lad and had already begun laying [[plans]] which would enable him to go to [[Jerusalem]] to continue his [[education]] in the renowned [[Hebrew]] [[University|academies]].

124:5.6 As [[Jesus]] heard these [[plans]] [[discussed]] from time to time, he became increasingly sure that he would never go to [[Jerusalem]] to [[study]] with the [[rabbis]]. But he little [[dreamed]] of the [[tragedy]], so soon to occur, which would insure the [[abandonment]] of all such [[plans]] by causing him to [[assume]] the [[responsibility]] for the [[support]] and direction of a large [[family]], presently to consist of five brothers and three sisters as well as his mother and himself. Jesus had a larger and longer experience rearing this family than was accorded to Joseph, his father; and he did measure up to the standard which he subsequently set for himself: to become a [[wise]], [[patient]], [[understanding]], and [[effective]] [[teacher]] and eldest brother to this [[family]]—his [[family]]—so suddenly [[sorrow]]-stricken and so unexpectedly [[Grief|bereaved]].

124:5.6 As [[Jesus]] heard these [[plans]] [[discussed]] from time to time, he became increasingly sure that he would never go to [[Jerusalem]] to [[study]] with the [[rabbis]]. But he little [[dreamed]] of the [[tragedy]], so soon to occur, which would insure the [[abandonment]] of all such [[plans]] by causing him to [[assume]] the [[responsibility]] for the [[support]] and direction of a large [[family]], presently to consist of five brothers and three sisters as well as his mother and himself. Jesus had a larger and longer experience rearing this family than was accorded to Joseph, his father; and he did measure up to the standard which he subsequently set for himself: to become a [[wise]], [[patient]], [[understanding]], and [[effective]] [[teacher]] and eldest brother to this [[family]]—his [[family]]—so suddenly [[sorrow]]-stricken and so unexpectedly [[Grief|bereaved]].

==124:6. THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM==

==124:6. THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM==

124:6.1 [[Jesus]], having now reached the [[threshold]] of young manhood and having been formally [[graduated]] from the [[synagogue]] [[schools]], was qualified to [[proceed]] to [[Jerusalem]] with his [[parents]] to [[participate]] with them in the [[celebration]] of his first [[Passover]]. The Passover feast of this year fell on Saturday, April 9, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7_AD A.D. 7]. A considerable company (103) made ready to depart from [[Nazareth]] early Monday morning, April 4, for [[Jerusalem]]. They journeyed south toward [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria], but on reaching [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezreel_(city) Jezreel], they turned east, going around [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gilboa Mount Gilboa] into the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley] in order to avoid passing through [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and his [[family]] would have enjoyed going down through [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria] by way of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacob's_well Jacob's well] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethel Bethel], but since the [[Jews]] disliked to deal with the Samaritans, they decided to go with their [[neighbors]] by way of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley].

124:6.1 [[Jesus]], having now reached the [[threshold]] of young manhood and having been formally [[graduated]] from the [[synagogue]] [[schools]], was qualified to [[proceed]] to [[Jerusalem]] with his [[parents]] to [[participate]] with them in the [[celebration]] of his first [[Passover]]. The Passover feast of this year fell on Saturday, April 9, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7_AD A.D. 7]. A considerable company (103) made ready to depart from [[Nazareth]] early Monday morning, April 4, for [[Jerusalem]]. They journeyed south toward [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria], but on reaching [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezreel_(city) Jezreel], they turned east, going around [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gilboa Mount Gilboa] into the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley] in order to avoid passing through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and his [[family]] would have enjoyed going down through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaria Samaria] by way of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacob's_well Jacob's well] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethel Bethel], but since the [[Jews]] disliked to deal with the Samaritans, they decided to go with their [[neighbors]] by way of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley].

124:6.2 The much-dreaded [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Archelaus Archelaus] had been deposed, and they had little to [[fear]] in taking [[Jesus]] to [[Jerusalem]]. Twelve years had passed since the first [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_the_Great Herod] had sought to destroy the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:8._THE_BIRTH_OF_JESUS babe of Bethlehem], and no one would now [[think]] of associating that affair with this obscure lad of [[Nazareth]].

124:6.2 The much-dreaded [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_Archelaus Archelaus] had been deposed, and they had little to [[fear]] in taking [[Jesus]] to [[Jerusalem]]. Twelve years had passed since the first [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_the_Great Herod] had sought to destroy the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_122#122:8._THE_BIRTH_OF_JESUS babe of Bethlehem], and no one would now [[think]] of associating that affair with this obscure lad of [[Nazareth]].

124:6.3 Before reaching the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezreel Jezreel] junction, and as they [[journeyed]] on, very soon, on the left, they passed the ancient village of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shunem Shunem], and [[Jesus]] heard again about the most [[beautiful]] [[maiden]] of all [[Israel]] who once lived there and also about the [[wonderful]] works http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elisha Elisha] performed there. In passing by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezreel Jezreel], [[Jesus]]' [[parents]] recounted the doings of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahab Ahab] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezebel Jezebel] and the exploits of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehu Jehu]. In passing around [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gilboa Mount Gilboa], they talked much about [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saul Saul], who took his life on the slopes of this [[mountain]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David King David], and the associations of this historic spot.

124:6.3 Before reaching the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezreel Jezreel] junction, and as they [[journeyed]] on, very soon, on the left, they passed the ancient village of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shunem Shunem], and [[Jesus]] heard again about the most [[beautiful]] [[maiden]] of all [[Israel]] who once lived there and also about the [[wonderful]] works https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elisha Elisha] performed there. In passing by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezreel Jezreel], [[Jesus]]' [[parents]] recounted the doings of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahab Ahab] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jezebel Jezebel] and the exploits of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehu Jehu]. In passing around [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gilboa Mount Gilboa], they talked much about [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saul Saul], who took his life on the slopes of this [[mountain]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David King David], and the associations of this historic spot.

124:6.4 As they rounded the base of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gilboa Gilboa], the [[pilgrims]] could see the [[Greek]] [[city]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis] on the right. They gazed upon the marble [[structures]] from a distance but went not near the [[gentile]] city lest they so defile themselves that they could not [[participate]] in the forthcoming [[solemn]] and [[sacred]] [[ceremonies]] of the [[Passover]] at [[Jerusalem]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] could not [[understand]] why neither [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] nor [[Jesus]] would speak of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis]. She did not know about their [[controversy]] of the previous year as they had never [[revealed]] this episode to her.

124:6.4 As they rounded the base of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gilboa Gilboa], the [[pilgrims]] could see the [[Greek]] [[city]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis] on the right. They gazed upon the marble [[structures]] from a distance but went not near the [[gentile]] city lest they so defile themselves that they could not [[participate]] in the forthcoming [[solemn]] and [[sacred]] [[ceremonies]] of the [[Passover]] at [[Jerusalem]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary] could not [[understand]] why neither [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] nor [[Jesus]] would speak of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis]. She did not know about their [[controversy]] of the previous year as they had never [[revealed]] this episode to her.

124:6.5 The road now led [[immediately]] down into the tropical [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley], and soon [[Jesus]] was to have [[exposed]] to his [[wondering]] gaze the crooked and ever-winding [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] with its glistening and rippling [[water]]s as it flowed down toward the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea Dead Sea]. They laid aside their outer garments as they [[journeyed]] south in this tropical valley, enjoying the luxurious fields of grain and the [[beautiful]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oleander oleanders] laden with their pink blossoms, while massive snow-capped [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Hermon Mount Hermon] stood far to the north, in [[majesty]] looking down on the historic valley. A little over three hours' travel from opposite [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis] they came upon a bubbling spring, and here they camped for the night, out under the [[star]]lit heavens.

124:6.5 The road now led [[immediately]] down into the tropical [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley], and soon [[Jesus]] was to have [[exposed]] to his [[wondering]] gaze the crooked and ever-winding [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] with its glistening and rippling [[water]]s as it flowed down toward the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea Dead Sea]. They laid aside their outer garments as they [[journeyed]] south in this tropical valley, enjoying the luxurious fields of grain and the [[beautiful]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oleander oleanders] laden with their pink blossoms, while massive snow-capped [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Hermon Mount Hermon] stood far to the north, in [[majesty]] looking down on the historic valley. A little over three hours' travel from opposite [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scythopolis Scythopolis] they came upon a bubbling spring, and here they camped for the night, out under the [[star]]lit heavens.

124:6.6 On their second day's [[journey]] they passed by where the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zarqua_river Jabbok], from the east, flows into the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan], and looking east up this river valley, they recounted the days of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gideon_(biblical_figure) Gideon], when the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midian Midianites] poured into this region to overrun the [[land]]. Toward the end of the second day's [[journey]] they camped near the base of the highest mountain overlooking the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley], Mount Sartaba, whose [[summit]] was occupied by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandrium Alexandrian fortress] where [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_the_Great Herod] had imprisoned one of his wives and buried his two strangled sons.

124:6.6 On their second day's [[journey]] they passed by where the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zarqua_river Jabbok], from the east, flows into the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan], and looking east up this river valley, they recounted the days of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gideon_(biblical_figure) Gideon], when the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midian Midianites] poured into this region to overrun the [[land]]. Toward the end of the second day's [[journey]] they camped near the base of the highest mountain overlooking the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_valley_(Middle_East) Jordan valley], Mount Sartaba, whose [[summit]] was occupied by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandrium Alexandrian fortress] where [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herod_the_Great Herod] had imprisoned one of his wives and buried his two strangled sons.

124:6.7 The third day they passed by two villages which had been recently built by Herod and noted their superior [[architecture]] and their [[beautiful]] palm [[gardens]]. By nightfall they reached [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho], where they remained until the morrow. That evening [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary], and [[Jesus]] walked a mile and a half to the site of the ancient [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho], where [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua Joshua], for whom [[Jesus]] was named, had [[performed]] his renowned exploits, according to [[Jewish]] [[tradition]].

124:6.7 The third day they passed by two villages which had been recently built by Herod and noted their superior [[architecture]] and their [[beautiful]] palm [[gardens]]. By nightfall they reached [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho], where they remained until the morrow. That evening [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary], and [[Jesus]] walked a mile and a half to the site of the ancient [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho Jericho], where [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua Joshua], for whom [[Jesus]] was named, had [[performed]] his renowned exploits, according to [[Jewish]] [[tradition]].

124:6.8 By the fourth and last day's [[journey]] the road was a continuous [[procession]] of [[pilgrims]]. They now began to climb the hills leading up to [[Jerusalem]]. As they neared the top, they could look across the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] to the mountains beyond and south over the sluggish waters of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea Dead Sea]. About halfway up to [[Jerusalem]], Jesus gained his first view of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives] (the region to be so much a part of his subsequent life), and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] pointed out to him that the Holy City lay just beyond this ridge, and the lad's [[heart]] beat fast with joyous [[anticipation]] of soon beholding the city and house of his [[heavenly Father]].

124:6.8 By the fourth and last day's [[journey]] the road was a continuous [[procession]] of [[pilgrims]]. They now began to climb the hills leading up to [[Jerusalem]]. As they neared the top, they could look across the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_river Jordan] to the mountains beyond and south over the sluggish waters of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea Dead Sea]. About halfway up to [[Jerusalem]], Jesus gained his first view of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives] (the region to be so much a part of his subsequent life), and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] pointed out to him that the Holy City lay just beyond this ridge, and the lad's [[heart]] beat fast with joyous [[anticipation]] of soon beholding the city and house of his [[heavenly Father]].

124:6.9 On the eastern slopes of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Olivet] they paused for rest in the borders of a little village called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. The hospitable villagers poured forth to minister to the [[pilgrims]], and it happened that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and his [[family]] had stopped near the house of one Simon, who had three children about the same age as [[Jesus]]—[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary,_sister_of_Lazarus Mary], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]. They invited the [[Nazareth]] [[family]] in for refreshment, and a lifelong [[friendship]] sprang up between the two [[families]]. Many times afterward, in his [[eventful]] life, [[Jesus]] stopped in this [[home]].

124:6.9 On the eastern slopes of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Olivet] they paused for rest in the borders of a little village called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethany Bethany]. The hospitable villagers poured forth to minister to the [[pilgrims]], and it happened that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] and his [[family]] had stopped near the house of one Simon, who had three children about the same age as [[Jesus]]—[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary,_sister_of_Lazarus Mary], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha Martha], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazarus Lazarus]. They invited the [[Nazareth]] [[family]] in for refreshment, and a lifelong [[friendship]] sprang up between the two [[families]]. Many times afterward, in his [[eventful]] life, [[Jesus]] stopped in this [[home]].

124:6.10 They pressed on, soon standing on the brink of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Olivet], and [[Jesus]] saw for the first time (in his [[memory]]) the [[Jerusalem|Holy City]], the pretentious palaces, and the [[inspiring]] [[temple]] of [[Universal Father|his Father]]. At no time in his life did [[Jesus]] ever [[experience]] such a purely [[human]] thrill as that which at this time so completely enthralled him as he stood there on this April afternoon on the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives], drinking in his first view of [[Jerusalem]]. And in after years, on this same spot he stood and wept over the [[city]] which was about to reject another [[prophet]], the last and the greatest of her heavenly [[teachers]].

124:6.10 They pressed on, soon standing on the brink of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Olivet], and [[Jesus]] saw for the first time (in his [[memory]]) the [[Jerusalem|Holy City]], the pretentious palaces, and the [[inspiring]] [[temple]] of [[Universal Father|his Father]]. At no time in his life did [[Jesus]] ever [[experience]] such a purely [[human]] thrill as that which at this time so completely enthralled him as he stood there on this April afternoon on the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives Mount of Olives], drinking in his first view of [[Jerusalem]]. And in after years, on this same spot he stood and wept over the [[city]] which was about to reject another [[prophet]], the last and the greatest of her heavenly [[teachers]].

124:6.11 But they hurried on to [[Jerusalem]]. It was now Thursday afternoon. On reaching the [[city]], they journeyed past the [[temple]], and never had [[Jesus]] beheld such throngs of [[human being]]s. He meditated deeply on how these [[Jews]] had assembled here from the uttermost parts of the known [[world]].

124:6.11 But they hurried on to [[Jerusalem]]. It was now Thursday afternoon. On reaching the [[city]], they journeyed past the [[temple]], and never had [[Jesus]] beheld such throngs of [[human being]]s. He meditated deeply on how these [[Jews]] had assembled here from the uttermost parts of the known [[world]].

124:6.12 Soon they reached the place prearranged for their accommodation during the [[Passover]] week, the large [[home]] of a [[well-to-do]] [[relative]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s, one who knew something of the early history of both [[John the Baptist|John]] and [[Jesus]], through [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zechariah_(priest) Zacharias]. The following day, the day of [[preparation]], they made ready for the appropriate [[celebration]] of the [[Passover]] [[Sabbath]].

124:6.12 Soon they reached the place prearranged for their accommodation during the [[Passover]] week, the large [[home]] of a [[well-to-do]] [[relative]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_(mother_of_Jesus) Mary]'s, one who knew something of the early history of both [[John the Baptist|John]] and [[Jesus]], through [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zechariah_(priest) Zacharias]. The following day, the day of [[preparation]], they made ready for the appropriate [[celebration]] of the [[Passover]] [[Sabbath]].

124:6.13 While all [[Jerusalem]] was astir in [[preparation]] for the [[Passover]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] found time to take his son around to visit the [[University|academy]] where it had been arranged for him to resume his [[education]] two years later, as soon as he reached the required age of fifteen. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was truly puzzled when he [[observed]] how little interest [[Jesus]] evinced in all these carefully laid [[plans]].

124:6.13 While all [[Jerusalem]] was astir in [[preparation]] for the [[Passover]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] found time to take his son around to visit the [[University|academy]] where it had been arranged for him to resume his [[education]] two years later, as soon as he reached the required age of fifteen. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph Joseph] was truly puzzled when he [[observed]] how little interest [[Jesus]] evinced in all these carefully laid [[plans]].

124:6.14 [[Jesus]] was [[profound]]ly impressed by [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] and all the associated services and other activities. For the first time since he was four years old, he was too much preoccupied with his own meditations to ask many questions. He did, however, ask his [[father]] several [[embarrassing]] questions (as he had on previous occasions) as to why the heavenly Father required the slaughter of so many [[innocent]] and helpless [[animals]]. And his [[father]] well knew from the [[expression]] on the lad's face that his answers and attempts at [[explanation]] were unsatisfactory to his deep-[[thinking]] and keen-reasoning son.

124:6.14 [[Jesus]] was [[profound]]ly impressed by [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_temple the temple] and all the associated services and other activities. For the first time since he was four years old, he was too much preoccupied with his own meditations to ask many questions. He did, however, ask his [[father]] several [[embarrassing]] questions (as he had on previous occasions) as to why the heavenly Father required the slaughter of so many [[innocent]] and helpless [[animals]]. And his [[father]] well knew from the [[expression]] on the lad's face that his answers and attempts at [[explanation]] were unsatisfactory to his deep-[[thinking]] and keen-reasoning son.

124:6.15 On the day before the [[Passover]] [[Sabbath]], flood tides of [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] swept through the [[mortal]] [[mind]] of [[Jesus]] and filled his [[human]] [[heart]] to overflowing with [[affection]]ate [[pity]] for the spiritually blind and morally [[ignorant]] multitudes assembled for the [[celebration]] of the ancient [[Passover]] commemoration. This was one of the most extraordinary days that the Son of God spent in the [[flesh]]; and during the night, for the first time in his [[earth]] [[career]], there appeared to him an assigned [[messenger]] from [[Salvington]], commissioned by [[Immanuel]], who said: " The hour has come. It is time that you began to be about your Father's business. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_2]

124:6.15 On the day before the [[Passover]] [[Sabbath]], flood tides of [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] swept through the [[mortal]] [[mind]] of [[Jesus]] and filled his [[human]] [[heart]] to overflowing with [[affection]]ate [[pity]] for the spiritually blind and morally [[ignorant]] multitudes assembled for the [[celebration]] of the ancient [[Passover]] commemoration. This was one of the most extraordinary days that the Son of God spent in the [[flesh]]; and during the night, for the first time in his [[earth]] [[career]], there appeared to him an assigned [[messenger]] from [[Salvington]], commissioned by [[Immanuel]], who said: " The hour has come. It is time that you began to be about your Father's business. "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_Luke#Chapter_2]