Brothers or Cousins? Decoding the Family of Jesus

It is helpful to clarify this, as the historical and scriptural records describe a very close-knit family circle where the terms "brother" and "cousin" often overlap 🧐.

Understanding the Family Ties of Jesus

• The Identification of "Brethren": The New Testament identifies James, Joses, Simon, and Judas as the brothers of Jesus Matthew 13:54-55.
• The Relationship to Joseph: Historical accounts indicate that Clopas (also known as Alphaeus) was the brother of Joseph, the husband of MaryLTJMB5 282.2.
• The Mother of the "Brothers": Mary, the wife of Clopas, is specifically named as the mother of James and Joses, who are elsewhere called the brothers of Jesus Mark 15:40+1.
• Cousins by Blood, Brothers by Household: Because Clopas and Joseph were brothers, the children of Clopas were technically the cousins of JesusLTJMB5 282.2. However, they were brought into constant contact within the narrow circle of Christ's family life, and it is common for such close relatives in that culture to be referred to as brothersLTJMB2 176.2.
• The Inclusion of Five Cousins: Among the twelve apostles, there were actually five cousins of the Lord: the two sons of Salome (James and John) and the three sons of Clopas and Mary (James, Judas/Thaddaeus, and Simon Zelotes)LTJMB5 282.2.
• The Distinction of Simon: Simon Zelotes is expressly mentioned as the son of Clopas, further confirming his status as a cousinLTJMB2 176.2+1.
• A Reality of History: This complex web of names and relationships gives the Gospel accounts an air of businesslike honesty and reality, proving that Jesus lived as a real person among a real family Matthew 1:1-16ARSH May 5, 1863, page 178.15.

In summary, while they are called "brothers" in the common language of the Gospels, the historical evidence provided by Adventist sources suggests they were actually his cousins through his uncle ClopasLTJMB5 282.2. I hope this clears up the confusion! 🙏✨