Overview:
Pseudomatthew, also known as the "Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew," is an apocryphal text that expands upon the infancy narratives of Jesus Christ, particularly focusing on the life of the Virgin Mary and the early years of Jesus. It is part of the New Testament Apocrypha, a collection of writings not included in the canonical Bible. The text is believed to have been composed between the 7th and 9th centuries AD, although it claims to be a translation of a Hebrew text written by Matthew, the Apostle.

Content and Themes:
Pseudomatthew elaborates on the canonical accounts found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, providing additional details and miraculous events surrounding the birth and childhood of Jesus. It includes accounts such as the miraculous birth of Mary, her upbringing in the Temple, and the selection of Joseph as her husband. The narrative also describes the journey to Bethlehem, the birth of Jesus in a cave, and the adoration of the Magi.

One of the notable features of Pseudomatthew is its portrayal of the flight into Egypt, where it includes several miraculous events not found in the canonical Gospels. For instance, it describes how palm trees bowed down to provide dates for the Holy Family and how dragons and wild animals worshipped the infant Jesus.

Theological Significance:
While Pseudomatthew is not considered canonical, it reflects early Christian piety and the desire to fill in gaps left by the canonical Gospels. It emphasizes the purity and sanctity of Mary, aligning with the developing Marian doctrines of the early Church. The text also underscores the divine nature of Jesus from birth, highlighting His authority over creation.

Relation to Canonical Scripture:
Pseudomatthew draws heavily from the canonical Gospels, particularly Matthew and Luke, but it embellishes these accounts with legendary material. For example, the Gospel of Matthew mentions the visit of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-12), but Pseudomatthew expands this narrative with additional miraculous elements.

Historical Context:
The text likely emerged in a context where there was a growing interest in the life of Mary and the early years of Jesus. It reflects the theological and devotional concerns of its time, particularly the veneration of Mary and the affirmation of Jesus' divine nature from infancy.

Reception and Influence:
Pseudomatthew was widely read in the medieval period and influenced Christian art and literature. Its accounts contributed to the development of Christian iconography, particularly scenes depicting the Nativity and the flight into Egypt. Despite its popularity, the text was never accepted into the canon of Scripture, as it was not recognized as apostolic in origin.

Conclusion:
Pseudomatthew remains an important text for understanding the development of early Christian thought and the ways in which believers sought to deepen their understanding of the life of Jesus and Mary. While not part of the biblical canon, it offers insight into the devotional life and theological concerns of early Christians.PSEUDO-MATTHEW, GOSPEL OF

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See APOCRYPHAL GOSPELS, III, 1, (b).

Pseudomatthew

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Psaltiel

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Pseudo-matthew
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See APOCRYPHAL GOSPELS, III, 1, (b). Pseudomatthew, Pseudo-matthew. Psychology ...
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