Mary, Perpetual Virginity, and the “Brothers of Jesus”: What’s Actually Being Debated?

A sensitive topic: doctrine, Scripture, and language

Few questions spark as much confusion as this one: “If the Bible mentions Jesus’ brothers, how can some Christians say Mary remained a virgin?” The tension feels obvious—until you look carefully at language, ancient family terms, and how Christian traditions developed doctrine.

What the New Testament actually says

The New Testament contains passages that mention Jesus’ “brothers” (and sometimes “sisters”). English translations often use the straightforward term “brothers,” which can sound like biological siblings. But the original context matters: in the Semitic cultural-linguistic world, kinship terms could be broader than modern Western usage.

Why “brother” can mean more than one thing

In many ancient Near Eastern contexts, a word translated as “brother” could include close relatives beyond the strict “same mother and father” sense—especially in languages and cultures where “cousin” categories are expressed differently. This is not a trick; it is a normal issue in translation and anthropology of language.

Because of that, Christians historically held different interpretations. Some traditions speak of “brothers” as close relatives (often rendered as cousins). Others speak of them as step-siblings (children of Joseph from a previous marriage). Many Protestant interpreters, however, read them as biological siblings born to Mary and Joseph after Jesus.

What the Catholic doctrine means (and what it doesn’t)

In Catholic teaching, Mary’s perpetual virginity is a confession about the singularity of Christ’s birth and Mary’s dedication to God. The Catechism addresses the “brothers and sisters” question directly, noting the broader biblical use of the term for relatives. Whether one agrees or not, it’s important to understand the claim: it is not a denial that Jesus had a real family network; it is a specific theological statement about Mary.

Why this debate often becomes unhealthy

Sometimes this topic turns into a contest: “Which side can ‘prove’ it?” But the deeper issue is what we do with sacred texts. Are we willing to read them carefully, with historical humility, and with charity toward believers who disagree? Or do we weaponize them to score points?

Author reflection

Whether you are Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, or simply curious, let the discussion push you toward a better kind of faith: one that listens, studies, and stays gentle.

• Reflection question: When I meet a disagreement in faith, do I become defensive—or curious and humble?
• Reflection question: Do I treat Scripture as a tool to win arguments, or as a place where God forms my character?
• Small practice: Read one relevant passage slowly, then write a short prayer for unity and truth.