In a previous post, I discussed the identity of the "brothers" and "sisters" of Jesus, arguing for what has been labelled the "Helvidian view" (that they were biological sons and daughters of Mary and Joseph; being the biological [half-] brothers of Jesus). In that post, I briefly discussed the exegetical problems of the Hieronymian view (that they are the cousins/near-relatives of Jesus but not uterine siblings).
Another problem with this approach to the terms αδελφος and αδελφη is that they are used in verses where words meaning "kinsman" are also used, differentiating the two terms with respect to their meaning. Consider the following:
One may be tempted to point to Rom 9:3, but the term αδελφος is being used in a sociological sense, not a biological/familial sense.
Another problem with this approach to the terms αδελφος and αδελφη is that they are used in verses where words meaning "kinsman" are also used, differentiating the two terms with respect to their meaning. Consider the following:
Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, not thy brethren (αδελφος), neither thy kinsmen (συγγενις), nor thy rich neighbours: lets they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. (Luke 14:12)
You will be betrayed even by parents, and brethren (αδελφος), and kinsfolks (συγγενις), and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. (Luke 21:16)
One may be tempted to point to Rom 9:3, but the term αδελφος is being used in a sociological sense, not a biological/familial sense.
