Was Matthew the Apostle in the Bible Autistic- Exploring the Life and Character of a Bible Figure
Was Matthew in the Bible Autistic?
The question of whether Matthew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the Gospel of Matthew, was autistic has intrigued scholars and laypeople alike. This topic delves into the historical context, biblical narratives, and the potential implications of such a diagnosis for our understanding of the life and character of Matthew.
Historical Context and Biblical Narratives
To explore the possibility of Matthew being autistic, it is essential to consider the historical context in which the Gospel of Matthew was written. The New Testament was composed in the first century AD, a time when the concept of autism was not yet recognized or understood. The term “autism” was not coined until the early 20th century by Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger.
In the Gospel of Matthew, there are several instances that could be interpreted as indicative of autism. For example, Matthew is described as being a tax collector before his conversion to Christianity. Tax collectors were often viewed as dishonest and corrupt, which could suggest that Matthew had a difficult time fitting into the societal norms of his time. Additionally, the Bible mentions that Matthew had a tax collection office, which could imply a focus on routine and repetition, a characteristic often associated with autism.
Characteristics of Autism in Matthew
While it is important to note that diagnosing individuals from the past with a modern-day disorder is inherently speculative, certain aspects of Matthew’s life and behavior may align with some of the traits associated with autism. These include:
1. Social Communication Difficulties: Matthew’s initial interaction with Jesus, where he is called to follow Him, seems to indicate a lack of social communication skills. He was not a follower of Jesus but a tax collector, and Jesus’ direct invitation to follow may have been a significant turning point in his life.
2. Sensory Processing Sensitivity: The Bible does not explicitly mention Matthew’s sensory processing abilities, but it is possible that he had heightened sensitivity to certain stimuli, which could have contributed to his unique perspective on life.
3. Repetitive Behaviors: Matthew’s focus on Jesus’ teachings and his meticulous documentation of the Gospel may suggest a tendency towards repetitive behaviors, which is another characteristic often associated with autism.
Implications and Conclusion
The possibility of Matthew being autistic raises intriguing questions about the diversity of human experiences and the potential for various neurological differences within the biblical narrative. While it is impossible to definitively diagnose someone from the past with a modern-day disorder, exploring this question can provide valuable insights into the human condition and the complexity of human behavior.
In conclusion, while the question of whether Matthew in the Bible was autistic remains speculative, it is a topic that invites us to consider the rich tapestry of human experiences and the potential for diverse neurological differences within the context of the biblical narrative.
