medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
The miraculous birth of Mary as recounted in the protoevangelium of
James dates
to at least mid-second century, so if it has Muslim origins that would be
impressive indeed!
I've been sitting on my hands throughout this delightfully interesting thread,
but can resist no longer. In my opinion the most entertaining Saint Anne story
of all was that she had three husbands (in succession) who with her gave birth
to three Marys (in succession) who all gave birth to seven holy grandchildren,
Jesus and six apostles. This tradition is usually dated to min-ninth century,
and derived from some efforts to explain the passages referring to Jesus'
brethren in the Bible and make sure that Saint Anne, Mary's mother, would give
birth to Mary Salome and Mary Cleophas would would then give birth to Jesus'
"brethren" (here cousins pace Jerome). This tradition, and the gospel that
endorsed it, the protoevangelium of Matthew, were dinged at the Council of
Trent, alas, and Anne was reduced to one husband and one daughter. Even Martin
Luther allowed that Mary had a mother and we might as well call her Anne, but
that was as far as he'd go.
all best to all,
Sara McDougall
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