[分享]Meaning of Mat 1:19

难得糊涂

What's the meaning of “just man” in Mat 1:19?

“Just man (KJV)” or “righteous man (NIV)” being zealous in keeping the law to Jews.  Even though just or righteous can mean merciful or nice, strictly speaking it requires people to take action following Moses law. So believing Mary was unfaithful (he did not know the virgin conception beforehand, as the angel later indicated this in his dream), he needed to take actions required by the law. Instead of a public divorce and expose her to such a shame, he planed to divorce quietly, maybe privately before two witnesses, which also allowed by the law. Thus he can keep his righteousness and his kindness simultaneously (This benevolent attitude to Mary is seen by some scholars as part of Joesph's righteous.)