IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL PRACTICE (IJRCP )

E-ISSN 2579-0501
P-ISSN 2695-219X
VOL. 9 NO. 2 2024
DOI: 10.56201/ijrcp.v9.no2.2024.pg39.48

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Temple Tax Praxis: Wirkungsgeschichte Reading of Matthew 17:24-27

Bitrus, Nuhu

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Abstract

Temple tax praxis generates social stigma attached to taxing profession either rightly or wrongly informed resulted in their ostracization of the tax collectors from the larger community today as it was in the Jewish community, leading to their classification as sinners and outcasts. The Christian Church is more and more abandoning or distorting the meaning of Jesus Christ encounter with Temple tax collectors - mainly in the selected text of Matthew 17:24-27. This paper proposes a Wirkungsgeschichte (history of effects) reading of Matthew 17:24-27, its reception and practical application in various historical and cultural contexts. As the minds of the people are always influenced by the historical situations of the time and place, the interpretation of the Scriptures also has been nourished by the historical influences over span of times. By examining the historical and cultural reception of these verses, the study reveals how interpretations have evolved and influenced Christian thought and practice regarding tax praxis. The paper delves into early church writings, medieval commentaries, and modern theological perspectives, highlighting the enduring impact of Jesus’s teachings. Clearly, Understanding the historical influences as Wirkungsgeschichte approach main goal surrounding tax collectors provides valuable insights into the societal divisions and moral dilemmas prevalent during that era, shedding light on the transformative significance of individuals like the apostle Matthew, who experienced a profound spiritual renewal and redirection of purpose through their encounter with Jesus Christ.

keywords:

Temple, Tax, Praxis and Wirkungschichte

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