Meaning and function of the Sign of Jonah in Matthew 12:38-42 and 16:1-4

Abstract

The article deals with particular texts that are not limited to the resurrection narratives in Matt 28. In what follows we will have a close look at Matthew’s understanding of Jonah’s sign. What did he mean with the sign of Jonah? Did Matthew understand it in terms of resurrection? And if so, did he follow examples of the past? Why did he mention the sign of Jonah in this particular context of his composition?

Keywords

• Jonah
• Son of Man
• σημεῖον
• resurrection
• syn comparison
• OT and Jewish literature