The answer is: Lawyer

Matt 22:35 - Also a scribe (Mark 12:28)

In the Gospels, we see individuals from various backgrounds trying to engage with Jesus and test his teachings. The interaction between Jesus and the lawyer, or scribe, in Matthew 22:35 is particularly intriguing. These scribes were not just anyone; they were experts in Jewish law and tradition, meticulously studying and interpreting the Scriptures. You can imagine a well-dressed scribe strutting up to Jesus, perhaps intrigued and skeptical, wanting to pin him down on his views regarding the Law—and not just any law but the very backbone of their faith!

An interesting twist lies in what Jesus responds with. Instead of listing the numerous laws and rituals, he sums it all up with the profound commands to love God and love your neighbor (Matt 22:37-40). This conveys that the essence of divine instruction is rooted in love.

Trivia time! Did you know that the Bible isn’t just a list of do’s and don’ts? Many Jews consider the Torah’s commands left for interpretation rather than a rigid checklist. Such variations lead to the Rabbinic academies being hotbeds of lively discussion and diverse opinions!

And on the love command, scholars often reminisce about parallels in other ancient Near Eastern texts that also emphasized the need for community ethics—a kind of universal love. So whether during Jesus’ time or today, the drive for compassion remains global. It’s a fantastic reminder of how threads of history connect generations yearning for love and purpose!