Did Jesus have siblings and was Mary's virginity perpetual?

Bonnie Hall asks: Hi. I'm Catholic, and having trouble understanding whether or not Jesus had actual siblings. Or were they said to be brothers because there is no word for cousin? Or is everyone considered his brothers and sisters? If he had siblings, wouldn't that mean that Mary's virginity was not perpetual? This is pretty confusing to me. Thanks.

Hi Bonnie,

Thanks for the question. First, it is important to understand that Bible does not state that Mary's virginity was perpetual anywhere. Instead, Matthew 1:25, states Joseph "did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus". Or as the New Living Translation puts it "he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born".

Secondly, the Bible is explicit in telling us that Jesus Christ had brothers and sisters. This is made evident in Matthew 13:54-56, where it reads, "isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Aren't all his sisters with us?". This is also made evident in various other passages (Matthew 12:46-47, Mark3:31, Luke8:19-20, John 2:12, Acts 1:14, Galatians 1:19).

Lastly, there is no reason to render the Greek word brother [adelphos] or sister [adelphae] as cousin. While many claim that in biblical times there was no rendering for the word cousin, Paul in Colossians 4:10, states that Mark was "the cousin [anepsios] of Barnabas". We hope this helps clear up any issues.

Comments:

Jeff Higgins: Well how do you not know if what is meant by brothers and sisters, is simply other Christians? All Christians are Jesus' brothers and sister. Do you not hold to the traditions of the fathers?

BRC Hosts Joey and Chris: Well if that were the case, passages like John 2:12 would not make sense. If the disciples are his brothers, then the verse would not need to make a distinction between his brothers and disciples. "After this he went down to Capernaum with his mother and brothers and his disciples". This same distinction is made in the various verses provided above. As far as the traditions of the father, as long as it doesn't contradict the Bible. Or are the traditions of the fathers more correct than the inspired word of God?

Bonnie Hall: It does clear things up a bit. Thanks. I've been reading the Bible and have been looking to understand this issue. My sister was telling me that believing that Mother Mary had sexual relations would defile her perpetual virginity, but I couldn't find that anywhere, so thanks.

BRC Hosts Joey and Chris: Glad to help Bonnie. God bless you.

Bonnie Hall: You as well.