Episode 34: John and "the Synagogue" with Wally V Cirafesi

It Means What It Means

In this conversation, Wally Cirafesi discusses his article on rethinking the portrayal of the synagogue in the Gospel of John. He challenges the assumption that the expulsion of Christ believers from the synagogue represents a break between Judaism and Christianity. Cirafesi argues that synagogues in the ancient world were diverse and multifunctional public institutions, rather than monolithic religious spaces. He emphasizes the need to read the New Testament within its Jewish context and appreciate the Jewishness of the text. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the historical and social context of synagogues in order to interpret the Gospel of John accurately. In this conversation, Wally Cirafesi discusses the issue of antisemitism in biblical interpretation, particularly in relation to the Gospel of John. He highlights the importance of being aware of the historical context and the potential for embedded antisemitic ideas in Christian readings of the New Testament. Wally recommends resources and scholars that provide a more nuanced understanding of the text and its Jewish context. He also shares his personal interests, including playing the ukulele.