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Alfred Edersheim

Alfred Edersheim

4 Sermons|2 Books

Alfred Edersheim, born 1825, died 1889, was a Jewish-born Christian preacher, scholar, and author whose extensive writings on biblical history and Jewish life remain influential in theological studies. Born on March 7, 1825, in Vienna, Austria, to Marcus and Stephanie Edersheim, a prosperous Jewish family, he was raised in a culturally rich environment, mastering German, Hebrew, and later English. Educated at the University of Vienna, he converted to Christianity in 1846 under the mentorship of Presbyterian missionary John Duncan in Pest, Hungary, where he had moved to teach languages after his father’s financial ruin. Ordained in the Free Church of Scotland, Edersheim began his preaching career at the Free Church in Aberdeen in 1848, serving a largely Jewish congregation and marrying Jane Mary Campbell that year. Edersheim’s ministry evolved alongside his scholarship, pastoring in Scotland and England—most notably at St. Andrew’s in Torquay from 1875—while producing seminal works like The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah (1883), a detailed exploration of Jesus’ life within its Jewish context, drawing on his mastery of Talmudic and rabbinic sources. Health issues forced him to resign from active preaching in 1881, after which he settled in Oxford, lecturing occasionally and writing prolifically, including The Temple: Its Ministry and Services (1874) and Sketches of Jewish Social Life (1876). Widowed in 1876, he remarried Louisa Mary Thomas in 1881 and died on March 16, 1889, in Menton, France, leaving four surviving children from his first marriage. As of March 21, 2025, Edersheim’s works endure as vital resources, bridging Jewish and Christian perspectives with unparalleled depth.

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Sketches of Jewish Social Life - Part 1

ISA 9:1MAT 5:14MAT 15:28LUK 17:6LUK 18:11LUK 19:4JHN 1:46JHN 7:52

Alfred Edersheim preaches about the historical and cultural context of the land of Palestine at the time of Jesus Christ, focusing on the significance of understanding the surroundings, people, and events of the New Testament. He emphasizes the importance of realizing the contrast between the teachings of Jesus Christ and the beliefs of His contemporaries, highlighting the unique nature of Christ's life, teachings, and impact. Edersheim also discusses the divisions, prejudices, and religious practices prevalent in different regions of Palestine, particularly in Galilee, shedding light on the social, economic, and religious dynamics of the time.

Sketches of Jewish Social Life - Part 2

MAT 15:4

Alfred Edersheim delves into the Jewish perspective on the upbringing of children, highlighting the deep reverence and tenderness that Jewish parents had towards their offspring. He explores the various stages of child-life in Hebrew terminology, illustrating the care and attention given to children from birth to maturity. Edersheim also discusses the traditional Jewish practices and teachings regarding the education and training of children, emphasizing the importance of early instruction and the gradual progression towards adulthood and responsibility.

Sketches of Jewish Social Life - Part 3

LEV 25:35DEU 23:19MAT 23:23LUK 18:10ACT 18:3

Alfred Edersheim delves into the intricate world of Pharisaism, shedding light on their strict adherence to religious laws and practices, their conspicuous devotions in public spaces, and their influence in Jewish society. He explores the detailed regulations governing trade and commerce among the Jews, emphasizing the ethical considerations and protections for both debtors and creditors. Edersheim also highlights the unique position of the Jews in Alexandria, their significant role in commerce, and the impact of their wealth and influence on political events. Through his thorough examination, he provides valuable insights into the religious, social, and economic dynamics of Jewish life during that time.

Sketches of Jewish Social Life - Part 4

ISA 9:2ISA 21:11JER 25:30JHN 7:46ROM 11:2HEB 3:1

Alfred Edersheim delves into the intricate details of Jewish practices and rituals, shedding light on the significance of various customs observed in the Temple, such as the timing of prayers, the layout of the Temple, and the roles of priests and Levites. He explores the meticulous regulations governing prayer times, the structure of the Temple, the duties of the priests, and the symbolic meanings behind certain practices. Edersheim also discusses the divisions of the night watches, the functions of different chambers within the Temple, and the importance of specific rituals in Jewish worship.