Who was Gamaliel the Elder, and what was his primary role in Jewish society?

Gamaliel the Elder was a distinguished Pharisaic doctor of Jewish Law and a leading authority within the Sanhedrin during the early first century CE. He held a prominent position as a teacher and legal expert in Jewish life.

What was Gamaliel the Elder's lineage and family connections?

Gamaliel the Elder was the son of Simeon ben Hillel and the grandson of the highly influential Jewish teacher Hillel the Elder. He was also the father of Simeon ben Gamliel and had a daughter who married Simon ben Nathanael.

What titles did Gamaliel the Elder hold, and what do they signify?

Gamaliel the Elder held the Hebrew titles of Nasi, meaning 'prince,' and Rabban, meaning 'our master.' These titles indicate his high status and leadership role within the Jewish community and its highest court.

What was Gamaliel the Elder's specific position within the Sanhedrin?

Gamaliel the Elder served as the president of the Great Sanhedrin in Jerusalem. This position placed him at the head of the supreme Jewish court, responsible for religious and legal matters.

How was Gamaliel the Elder regarded in Jewish tradition, according to the Mishnah?

Gamaliel the Elder was highly esteemed, considered one of the greatest teachers in the history of Judaism. The Mishnah states that after his death, reverence for the law, purity, and piety declined significantly, highlighting his importance.

What Mishnaic anecdotes illustrate Gamaliel's authority and influence?

Two Mishnaic anecdotes show Gamaliel's authority by depicting him advising "the king and queen" on religious rituals. While their identities are uncertain, they are often thought to be Herod Agrippa and his wife Cypros, or Herod Agrippa II and his sister Berenice.

How does rabbinic literature portray Gamaliel's knowledge of scriptures and teaching style?

Rabbinic literature, which often focuses on the collective views of schools like Hillel's and Shammai's, does not detail Gamaliel's specific knowledge of scriptures or describe him as a teacher in the same way as others. His individual teachings are not extensively recorded in these texts.

Why is Gamaliel the Elder absent from the traditional chain of Mishnaic tradition?

Gamaliel the Elder is not listed in the direct chain of individuals who perpetuated the Mishnaic tradition because rabbinic texts tend to present the collective opinions of schools rather than individual nuances. The chain is typically shown passing directly from Hillel the Elder to Yohanan ben Zakkai.

What specific types of laws did Gamaliel the Elder author according to the Mishnah?

The Mishnah attributes to Gamaliel the Elder the authorship of several laws concerning community welfare and conjugal rights. These included measures to protect women during divorce and to accept a single witness as sufficient proof of a husband's death for remarriage.

What were the subjects of the three epistles attributed to Gamaliel the Elder?

Gamaliel the Elder is said to have sent three epistles announcing new religious rulings. Two were addressed to the inhabitants of Galilee and the southern region (the Darom) concerning the first tithe, and the third was sent to the Jewish diaspora regarding the intercalation of a month into the calendar.

What cryptic dictum is attributed to Gamaliel the Elder regarding his students?

Gamaliel the Elder is credited with a metaphorical dictum comparing his students to different classes of fish. This saying categorizes them based on their level of learning, understanding, parental background, and ability to articulate their knowledge.

What unlikely historical connection has been proposed for Gamaliel the Elder?

An unlikely connection was proposed in the tenth century by Dunash ibn Tamim, who identified Gamaliel the Elder with the famous physician Galen. This theory, based on an Arabic medical work, is considered improbable due to the significant time difference between the two figures.

How is Gamaliel the Elder depicted in the New Testament's Book of Acts?

In the Book of Acts, Gamaliel is presented as a respected Pharisee and doctor of Mosaic Law who advises the Sanhedrin. He famously advocated for leniency towards the early Christian apostles, suggesting their movement should be observed rather than suppressed.

What specific advice did Gamaliel give to the Sanhedrin regarding the apostles, as recorded in Acts?

Gamaliel advised the Sanhedrin to leave the apostles alone, stating that if their work was human in origin, it would fail, but if it was from God, they could not overthrow it. This counsel, found in Acts 5:38-39, led to the apostles' release.

Who is identified in the New Testament as having studied under Gamaliel the Elder?

The Apostle Paul is identified in the Book of Acts as having studied under Gamaliel the Elder. Paul himself states that he was brought up in Jerusalem "at the feet of Gamaliel" and received his education in Jewish law from him.

What scholarly debate exists concerning Paul's education under Gamaliel?

Scholars debate whether Paul truly studied under Gamaliel. Some, like Helmut Koester, question the connection due to a perceived contrast between Gamaliel's tolerance and Paul's pre-conversion actions against Christians. Others, like Richard Bauckham, support the traditional view of their teacher-student relationship.

What is the 'Gospel of Gamaliel' mentioned in scholarly discussions?

The 'Gospel of Gamaliel' is a hypothetical text that some scholars speculate may have existed, possibly as part of the apocryphal literature related to Pontius Pilate. Its existence is inferred from later writings, though no direct ancient sources confirm it.

How have scholars attempted to reconstruct or identify the 'Gospel of Gamaliel'?

Scholars who believe in the 'Gospel of Gamaliel' have attempted to reconstruct it from Bishop Cyriacus's homily, the 'Lament of Mary.' They suggest that certain passages within this homily, spoken from Gamaliel's perspective, are actually quotations from the lost gospel.

What role does Gamaliel play in the 'Lament of Mary' homily?

In the 'Lament of Mary,' Gamaliel is depicted witnessing a miracle at Jesus's tomb, where he observes the miraculous properties of Jesus's grave cloths. He also interacts with Pontius Pilate, who is portrayed very favorably as a Christian.

What is the ecclesiastical tradition regarding Gamaliel the Elder's conversion to Christianity?

Ecclesiastical tradition holds that Gamaliel the Elder eventually converted to Christianity. This belief is often used to explain his tolerant attitude towards the early Christians mentioned in the Book of Acts.

According to tradition, who baptized Gamaliel the Elder and his associates?

Tradition states that Gamaliel the Elder was baptized by Saint Peter and Saint John the Apostle. He was reportedly baptized along with his son, Abibon (also known as Abibas or Abibus), and Nicodemus.

What did the Clementine Literature suggest about Gamaliel's actions after his alleged conversion?

The Clementine Literature suggests that Gamaliel maintained secrecy about his conversion to Christianity. It posits that he continued his role in the Sanhedrin to covertly assist fellow Christians from within the Jewish leadership.

What is the scholarly assessment of the traditions concerning Gamaliel's Christian conversion?

Some scholars view the traditions of Gamaliel's conversion to Christianity as spurious or lacking historical basis. The biblical account in the Book of Acts does not explicitly state or imply that he became a Christian.

How is Gamaliel venerated in the Eastern Orthodox Church?

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Gamaliel is venerated as a saint. He is commemorated on August 2nd, which is traditionally observed as the date his relics were discovered, along with those of Saint Stephen, Abibon, and Nicodemus.

How is Gamaliel venerated in the Catholic Church?

The Catholic Church also commemorates Gamaliel. The feast day celebrating the finding of his relics is observed on August 3rd. Tradition holds that his body was discovered in the fifth century and miraculously transported to Pisa Cathedral.

What is the significance of Gamaliel's lineage from Hillel the Elder?

Gamaliel the Elder's descent from Hillel the Elder is significant as Hillel was a paramount figure in Jewish legal interpretation, known for his moderate approach. This lineage placed Gamaliel in a position of considerable rabbinic authority and prestige.

What does the phrase 'at the feet of Gamaliel' imply about Paul's education?

The phrase 'at the feet of Gamaliel' implies a period of close discipleship and intensive learning, suggesting that Paul received his foundational rabbinic education directly from Gamaliel, absorbing his teachings on Jewish law and tradition.

What is 'Gamaliel's principle' as referenced in the text?

'Gamaliel's principle' refers to a cautious and pragmatic approach to dealing with new movements, advocating observation and patience before taking decisive action. This principle is exemplified by his advice to the Sanhedrin regarding the early Christian apostles.

What was the specific context of Gamaliel's intervention in the Sanhedrin trial described in Acts?

The context was the Sanhedrin's deliberation on how to punish Peter and the other apostles for continuing to preach the gospel despite previous prohibitions. Gamaliel intervened to argue against harsh measures, proposing a more cautious approach.

What does the source text state about Gamaliel's direct influence on Christianity?

The source text explicitly states that Gamaliel's influence on aspects of Christianity is unmentioned. Although he taught Paul, a key figure in early Christianity, the direct impact of Gamaliel's specific teachings on Christian doctrine or practice is not detailed.

What is the meaning of the Hebrew title 'Rabban'?

The Hebrew title 'Rabban' translates to 'our master' and was a term of high respect used for leading sages in Jewish tradition, particularly those who presided over the Sanhedrin, indicating significant scholarship and authority.

What is the meaning of the Hebrew title 'Nasi'?

The Hebrew title 'Nasi' means 'prince' and was used for the head of the Sanhedrin, signifying a leadership role within the Jewish community that combined judicial and potentially political authority.

Which Mishnaic tractate is mentioned in relation to Gamaliel's laws on conjugal rights?

The Mishnaic tractate *Yevamot* (16:7) is mentioned in relation to Gamaliel's laws, specifically concerning the sufficiency of a single witness to confirm a husband's death for remarriage purposes.

What was the purpose of the intercalary month mentioned in Gamaliel's epistle to the diaspora?

An intercalary month, or leap month, is added to a calendar to keep it synchronized with the solar year. Gamaliel's epistle likely addressed the need for such an adjustment to ensure Jewish festivals, like Passover, occurred in their proper seasons.

What does the seeking of Gamaliel's advice by 'the king and queen' signify?

The fact that royalty sought Gamaliel's advice highlights his recognized authority and influence, which extended beyond the Jewish community. It demonstrates that his legal and religious opinions were highly valued and respected by figures of power.

What is the primary reason scholars question the tradition of Paul studying under Gamaliel?

A primary reason scholars question the tradition is the perceived contrast between Gamaliel's reported tolerance towards early Christians and the intense persecution of Christians attributed to Paul before his conversion. This apparent discrepancy raises doubts about the nature or extent of their relationship.

What is the alternative scholarly interpretation regarding the 'Lament of Mary' and the 'Gospel of Gamaliel'?

The alternative interpretation suggests that the passages in the 'Lament of Mary' attributed to Gamaliel were written by Bishop Cyriacus himself, adopting Gamaliel's perspective for narrative effect, rather than being direct quotations from a lost gospel. This view implies no actual 'Gospel of Gamaliel' was plagiarized.

What miraculous event is Gamaliel said to have witnessed in connection with Jesus's tomb?

According to traditions linked to the 'Gospel of Gamaliel,' Gamaliel witnessed a miracle at Jesus's tomb where he observed the grave cloths left behind by Jesus possessing miraculous healing powers.

How is Pontius Pilate portrayed in the context of the 'Gospel of Gamaliel' traditions?

In the traditions associated with the 'Gospel of Gamaliel,' Pontius Pilate is depicted very positively, even being portrayed as a Christian himself. This portrayal differs significantly from other historical and religious accounts.

What does being a 'Pharisaic doctor of Jewish Law' imply about Gamaliel?

Being a 'Pharisaic doctor of Jewish Law' means Gamaliel belonged to the Pharisees, a significant Jewish sect known for adhering to both written and oral laws, and that he was an expert interpreter and teacher of these laws.

What is the significance of the Mishnah stating that reverence for law declined after Gamaliel's death?

This statement implies that Gamaliel was a pivotal figure whose leadership and teachings were essential for upholding the high standards of Jewish law, purity, and piety. His passing marked a notable decline in these aspects within the community.

What is the meaning of 'Chazal' in Jewish tradition?

'Chazal' is an acronym for 'Chachameinu Zichronam Livracha,' meaning 'Our Sages of Blessed Memory.' It is a collective term referring to the rabbinic sages of the Mishnaic and Talmudic periods.

The Mishnah is a foundational text of Rabbinic Judaism, compiled around 200 CE. It codifies the oral law and traditions of the Tannaim, the rabbinic sages of the preceding centuries.

The Talmud is a central text of Rabbinic Judaism, consisting of the Mishnah and its extensive commentary, the Gemara. It records rabbinic discussions on Jewish law, ethics, history, and customs, existing in Babylonian and Jerusalem versions.

What was the significance of the Hillel versus Shammai schools of thought?

The schools of Hillel and Shammai represented two major, often opposing, rabbinic interpretations of Jewish law during the late Second Temple period. Their differing viewpoints are extensively documented in rabbinic literature, with Hillel's more lenient approach eventually becoming dominant.

What does the title 'Nasi' imply about Gamaliel's role in the Sanhedrin?

The title 'Nasi' (prince) implies that Gamaliel was the presiding officer or leader of the Sanhedrin, holding a position of ultimate authority within that judicial and legislative body.

What is the 'first tithe' mentioned in relation to Gamaliel's epistles?

The first tithe (Ma'aser Rishon) was a portion of agricultural produce designated by the Torah to be given to the Levites. Gamaliel's epistle concerning it likely addressed its proper collection or distribution within the Jewish community.

What is the significance of Gamaliel's body being discovered and taken to Pisa Cathedral?

The tradition of Gamaliel's body being discovered and miraculously transported to Pisa Cathedral in the 5th century is part of his veneration in the Catholic tradition. It signifies the recognition of his sainthood and the preservation of his relics.

What is the 'Acts of Llàtzer'?

The 'Acts of Llàtzer' is a 15th-century document written in the Catalan language. Its reference indicates that Gamaliel was a figure mentioned in various historical and literary traditions beyond the primary biblical and rabbinic sources.

What does the term 'Protomartyr' mean in relation to Saint Stephen?

The term 'Protomartyr' means the first martyr. Saint Stephen is considered the Protomartyr of Christianity as he is traditionally believed to be the first person to die for his Christian faith, as documented in the Book of Acts.

What is the 'Clementine Literature'?

The Clementine Literature is a collection of early Christian writings, primarily the Recognitions and Homilies, which recount the travels and teachings of Saint Peter. These texts often include narratives involving figures from early Christianity and Judaism.

Gamaliel Wiki: Gamaliel: The Sage of the Sanhedrin

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Overview

Identity and Lineage

Gamaliel the Elder, also known as Gamliel or Rabban Gamaliel I, was a preeminent authority in Jewish law and a leading figure within the Sanhedrin during the early first century CE. He was the son of Simeon ben Hillel and the grandson of the esteemed Jewish teacher Hillel the Elder, placing him within a lineage of significant rabbinic scholarship.

Role in the Sanhedrin

Gamaliel held the prestigious titles of Nasi (prince) and Rabban (our master), signifying his leadership as the president of the Great Sanhedrin in Jerusalem. His position within the highest court of Jewish law underscores his profound influence and respected status in religious and judicial matters of his time.

Scholarly Reputation

In Jewish tradition, Gamaliel is recognized as a distinguished Pharisaic doctor of Jewish Law. His reputation for wisdom and piety was so profound that the Mishnah laments, "Since Rabban Gamaliel the Elder died, there has been no more reverence for the law, and purity and piety died out at the same time."

In Jewish Tradition

Counsel to Royalty

Anecdotes in the Talmud depict Gamaliel offering advice on religious rituals to figures identified as "the king and queen." While their exact identities are debated, they are commonly believed to be Herod Agrippa I or II and his sister Berenice, highlighting Gamaliel's engagement with the ruling powers of Judea.

Legal and Social Contributions

Although rabbinic literature often presents the collective views of the schools of Hillel and Shammai, Gamaliel is credited with authoring specific laws concerning community welfare and conjugal rights. Notably, he advocated for legal protections for women during divorce proceedings and permitted the testimony of a single witness to establish a husband's death for remarriage purposes.

The Fish Analogy

Gamaliel is also remembered for a cryptic dictum comparing his students to different types of fish, categorizing them based on their depth of understanding and background:

Fish Classification

Ritually Impure Fish: Those who have memorized extensively but lack true understanding, often from humble origins.
Ritually Pure Fish: Those who have both learned and understood, typically from privileged backgrounds.
Jordan River Fish: Individuals who possess knowledge but struggle to articulate or apply it.
Mediterranean Sea Fish: Those who have mastered their studies and can effectively respond and teach.

In the New Testament

Defense of the Apostles

The Acts of the Apostles introduces Gamaliel as a respected Pharisee and doctor of Mosaic Law. In a pivotal moment before the Sanhedrin, he intervened to advocate for leniency towards the apostles of Jesus. He cautioned against immediate retribution, reminding the council of previous failed rebellions and suggesting that if the apostles' work was not divine, it would naturally fail.

"If this counsel or this work is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them, lest you be found fighting against God."

— Acts 5:38–39

Teacher of Paul

The Apostle Paul himself recounts his upbringing in Jerusalem, stating he was "brought up at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers." This association suggests Gamaliel was Paul's esteemed teacher, influencing his early legal and theological education.

The "Gospel of Gamaliel"

Scholarly speculation exists regarding a hypothetical text known as the "Gospel of Gamaliel," possibly related to the apocryphal literature concerning Pontius Pilate. While no direct ancient sources confirm its existence, some scholars suggest fragments might be found within later homilies. These texts sometimes portray Gamaliel interacting with biblical figures and witnessing miracles, though the extent to which these reflect an actual lost gospel remains a subject of academic debate.

Notable Quotes

Wisdom for Disciples

In the Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers), Gamaliel offers profound advice on the pursuit of knowledge and spiritual discipline:

Make a teacher for yourself and remove yourself from doubt; and do not give excess tithes by estimating.

— Pirkei Avot 1:16

This maxim emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the avoidance of overly scrupulous or self-serving interpretations of religious law.

Veneration and Legacy

Christian Tradition

Ecclesiastical tradition suggests Gamaliel may have embraced Christianity, explaining his tolerant stance towards early Christians. Some accounts claim he was baptized by Saints Peter and John, along with his son Abibon and Nicodemus, maintaining his public role to covertly aid the nascent Christian movement.

Sainthood and Relics

The Eastern Orthodox Church venerates Gamaliel as a saint, commemorating him on August 2nd, the traditional date for the discovery of his relics. The Catholic Church observes a similar feast on August 3rd, marking the miraculous discovery of his body in the 5th century and its transfer to Pisa Cathedral.

Further Exploration

Related Figures and Concepts

To deepen your understanding of Gamaliel's context, consider exploring related topics:

Biblical figures identified in extra-biblical sources.
The Gamaliel Foundation and Gamaliel's principle.
The historical relationship between early Christianity and Judaism.
The structure and hierarchy of the Sanhedrin and rabbinic eras.

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References

The Living Talmud - The Wisdom of the Fathers, ed. Judah Goldin, New American Library of World Literature: New York 1957, p. 72

Paton James Gloag, A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on The Acts of the Apostles, Volume 1, page 191, citing Photius, Cod. 171 (Edinburgh: T & T Clark, 1870).

Recognitions of Clement 1:65â66

Russian Orthodox Christian Menaion Calendar (referenced Aug 14, 2020)

Saint Gamaliel (referenced August 14, 2020)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Gamaliel Wikipedia page

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Gamaliel: A Guiding Light of Wisdom

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🏛️ Identity and Lineage

⚖️ Role in the Sanhedrin

📜 Scholarly Reputation

In Jewish Tradition 📜

👑 Counsel to Royalty

📚 Legal and Social Contributions

🐟 The Fish Analogy

🐠 Fish Classification

In the New Testament ✝️

🗣️ Defense of the Apostles

🧑‍🏫 Teacher of Paul

❓ The "Gospel of Gamaliel"

Notable Quotes 💬

💡 Wisdom for Disciples

Veneration and Legacy 🌟

✝️ Christian Tradition

⛪ Sainthood and Relics

Further Exploration 🔗

📚 Related Figures and Concepts

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Identity and Lineage

Role in the Sanhedrin

Scholarly Reputation

In Jewish Tradition

Counsel to Royalty

Legal and Social Contributions

The Fish Analogy

Fish Classification

In the New Testament

Defense of the Apostles

Teacher of Paul

The "Gospel of Gamaliel"

Notable Quotes

Wisdom for Disciples

Veneration and Legacy

Christian Tradition

Sainthood and Relics

Further Exploration

Related Figures and Concepts

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice