Alfred Edersheim
The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah • Appendix IX
Curse of one hanged on a tree in Messianic/atonement context in Talmudic sources
Cursed on a Tree
The law declared that anyone hung on a tree bore God's curse.
Old Testament
Deuteronomy 21:23
you must not leave the body hanging on the pole overnight. Be sure to bury it that same day, because anyone who is hung on a pole is under God's curse.
New Testament
Galatians 3:13
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole."
Why This Matters
The law declared that anyone hung on a tree bore God's curse. Paul's radical claim is that Jesus willingly took on this curse in our place. On the cross, he became the curse so that we could receive the blessing. The very horror of crucifixion—its shame and disgrace—was the means by which God's grace reached humanity.
Reflection
Lord Jesus, Your suffering was not wasted. As I read Deuteronomy 21:23 and Galatians 3:13, make me reverent before the cost of my redemption.
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