The Imperfect Sister

[rwley]

Since I haven't read everything that has ever been written, would someone please tell me if they have read something similar.

The story begins the day after the Resurrection and is told, in current and flashback, by one of Jesus' sisters. She tells of the ill feelings she carried toward her "perfect" brother and how as soon as she could she left to go live in another town so she wouldn't have to be around him and feel so inadequate. But now, of course she realizes who He really was, etc. etc.

Comments? Thanks.

[fluke]

I've never read anything like that. One suggestion though, women moving out of town on their own was very rare in those days (think it's unlikely unless she's disowned rare). If she is single when she moves, you will need to bring that up and have a good reason for how she will protect herself on the road. Bandits were extremely common during the time of Pilate and his predecessors. She would definitely be traveling in a convoy. And most marriages were arranged, but moving after marriage would be more common.

In my files, I have information on Jewish wedding ceremonies from the first century. I'd be glad to share if you want them.

[Khiya]

Sounds intriguing, I haven't heard about anything from a sister's POV, either, although I've seen a few about the disciples' stories.

One thing I thought about: being a little sister myself, I think that having an older brother who's a perfect human instead of a fallen human would make me look up to him even more, at least at first. Imagine, being able to follow him around everywhere without him snapping at you .
Resentment, then, might develop out of fear for him and anger that he won't keep his head down quietly, but always goes around spouting off about being the messiah (of course, that was quite a while later).

It would give a great perspective on what Jesus' family relationships would be like. I would definitely read it.

[rwley]

Thank you both for your comments. Yes, she would have been married when she moved. Even though she was younger, Jesus did not leave home until He was 30. She would have married at, what, 14 or 15? And yeah, she's the imperfect one, the rebel, the one with the attitude. She liked so much to be the center of attention that she resented His perfection because, well just because. I'm a little sister, too. Personality of this one not biographical at all:)

[Jeff Gerke]

Looks good, rwley. Go for it!

Jeff

[fluke]

She would have married at, what, 14 or 15?

13 would be the lower bound. The groom would be between 18 and 24.

And I do want to read this.

[rwley]

I guess now I actually have to finish writing it:) Thanks for all the input. Hey, fluke I will probably need that wedding info. I'll let you know when I get to that point. You guys are great.

[Divides the Waters]

Hard book to find, but check out Light Through an Eastern Window by Bishop K.C. Pillai. Fascinating, and deals with some traditions that we westerners don't give much thought.