Flavius Josephus: A Forgotten Biblical Commentator

Biblical commentaries are very popular among historical Protestants. There is a wide variety of publications that cater to all tastes. Some commentaries are more popular than others, especially within a particular segment of historical Protestantism.The success of commentators within their "ghettos" is so great that they gain a significance similar to that of the Talmud among Jews. However, there is someone who commented on much of the Scriptures, but who is not considered a biblical commentator, neither by Jews nor by Christians. I am talking about Flavius Josephus.

 

Josephus is a controversial figure, both among Jews and Christians. For Jews, he is an opportunist and a traitor. For Christians, he is a Jew who did not believe in Jesus. However, I believe that we are negleting a valuable source of biblical commentary. His work <<History of the Hebrews - from Abraham to the fall of Jerusalem>> is a rich source of commentary on the texts of the Old Testament and a historical source of great value for the reading of the New Testament.

 

The first third of the <<History of the Hebrews>> is practically a chapter-by-chapter commentary on the books of the Old Testament. Josephus provides historical, cultural, and religious information that helps to understand the biblical texts.I recommend that historical Protestants read the work of Flavius Josephus. It is a valuable source for understanding the Scriptures.

Revd.  Moacir Gabriel