Letter: Biblical Beards
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: At the risk of splitting hairs, might I point out to the erudite Mr Jacobson (letter, 14 November) that the Gospel accounts of the passion of Jesus record that he was scourged (and so facilitated the early Christian application to him of Isaiah 50:6 - "I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard.") but do not mention that his beard was pulled out.
Arguments from silence are never convincing, but at first blush this clearly favours the view that Jesus was clean-shaven.
The Rev Peter Hatton
Droitwich, Worcestershire
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments