Fencing the Torah

Midrashic exegesis, a Jewish method of interpreting scripture, involves examining the text through a lens of seeking deeper meaning, drawing parallels, and applying its principles to contemporary situations.

In his sermon on the mount, Yeshua uses a midrashic style, expanding on and reinterpreting existing God’s commandments, Jewish law, and tradition.

Key aspects of Midrashic Exegesis in Matthew 5:

Antitheses as "Fencing In" the Law:

The "antitheses" in Matthew 5:21-48, where Yeshua contrasts his teachings with the traditional interpretations of the Law (e.g., "You have heard it said... but I say to you"), can be seen as a midrashic method of "fencing in" the Torah.

Thereby making the law more specific and stringent to prevent its violation.

Yeshua seems to foreshadow His principle of “entering through the narrow gate”.

Beatitudes as Midrash:

The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) can be understood as a form of midrash on various Tanakh (Old Testament) passages, particularly Psalm 37:11 ^[1], where "meek" are linked to the "poor in spirit," and the "land" is interpreted as the Kingdom of Heaven.

Fulfillment of the Law:

Yeshua’s statement that He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17) is a key point of interpretation.

Midrash often involves seeking the deeper, spiritual meaning of the text, which Yeshua does by expanding on the Law's intent and applying it to internal motivations and actions.

This aligns perfectly with the prophecies in Jeremiah 31 and Ezekiel 36, saying that God will put in them (House of Israel and Judah) a new heart, His spirit, His law in their minds and on their hearts, circumcise their hearts, and make the walk in His statutes.

Yeshua seems to build on this premise of the Brit Chadashah (new covenant) by “moving” the application of God’s commandments and Torah from the outward action to the inward intent of the heart.

A perfect circumcision of the heart of followers and believers in Messiah, sealed with the Holy Spirit.

Emphasis on Internal Motivation:

Midrash often explores the underlying reasons and motivations behind actions. Yeshua's teachings in Matthew 5 emphasizes the importance of internal righteousness and purity of heart, rather than just outward adherence to the Law.

During His ministry, Messiah keeps pointing out the Pharisees’ misinterpretation of Torah by putting more importance on outward adherence and recognition than inward intention ^[2]

In His remarkable statements, Yeshua puts those who seek worldly recognition already have their rewards on earth against this who store up rewards in heaven should be a warning for all.

Application to Contemporary Life:

Midrash seeks to make scripture relevant to the current context. Yeshua’s teachings in Matthew 5, such as loving enemies and turning the other cheek, are examples of applying scriptural principles to the challenges of his time and, by extension, to contemporary life.

By giving explicit examples for the Torah's application in everyday life, Yeshua not only safeguards the Torah and God's commandments, He also gives us a deeper understanding of how God works in us and through us when we have internalized His Law.

Examples:

• "You have heard it said, 'You shall not murder'... but I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment" (Matthew 5:21-22):

  This expands the definition of murder beyond physical act to include internal anger and resentment.

• "You have heard it said, 'You shall not commit adultery'... but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:27-28):

  This extends the concept of adultery beyond physical actions to include lustful thoughts.

In essence, Matthew 5 can be understood as a midrash on the Torah, where Jesus reinterprets and expands upon its principles to reveal a deeper, more spiritual meaning that is relevant to his followers and to all who seek to understand and obey God's will.

Footnotes