This article explores anthropological insights about procreation to consider the meaning of Jesus' birth to a virgin. The reason the authors of the infancy narratives used virginal conception to indicate Jesus' identity is considered and links between the understandings of paternity and maternity in the Middle East and the development of monotheism and patriarchy are suggested. Brief remarks indicate why the developing Christian tradition adopted an exaggerated interpretation of Mary's virginity that raised her to the stature of a model of goodness for Christians.
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