To Cast the First Stone

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The story of the woman taken in adultery presents a dramatic encounter between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding the punishment prescribed by law. Jesus's response, "Let him who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her," has sparked significant discourse. This narrative, likely added to the Gospel of John in the third century, is often criticized by modern scholars as an example of textual corruption by early Christian scribes. However, this view overlooks the story's warm reception throughout history. The authors trace its incorporation into Gospel texts, liturgical practices, storytelling, and art, challenging the notion that it was marginalized or suppressed, particularly in the Greek East. They delve into the various interpretations of the story, which range from illustrating Christ's mercy to reflecting on the perceived superiority of Christians over Jews and the importance of penance. This exploration reveals insights into the evolving priorities of audiences, scribes, editors, and scholars, as well as the complexities surrounding the "original" text of John. The work highlights significant shifts in Christian book culture and the lasting influence of oral tradition on the preservation and interpretation of scripture.