Shabbat

Great introduction to the Sanhedrin and its hierarchy, Jewish tradition under Roman occupation and the women in the midst of it all.

The second episode shifts its focus to several new characters while maintaining the thread of spiritual awakening introduced in the first. The story highlights the different experiences of Jewish families as they prepare for Shabbat, the traditional day of rest. Here, we see Nicodemus (Erick Avari), a Pharisee deeply troubled by the inexplicable miracles occurring around him. His inner conflict is palpable as he grapples with the limits of his authority and understanding of God. Meanwhile, Simon (Shahar Isaac) and his brother Andrew (Noah James) struggle with their livelihood as fishermen under Roman oppression.

What stands out in this episode is the attention to cultural and religious detail. The observance of Shabbat is shown with great care, giving viewers insight into the traditions and customs that shaped the lives of the Jewish people during this time. This level of authenticity adds depth to the world-building, grounding the more fantastical elements of the story in historical reality. The episode's direction ensures that these cultural moments feel integral to the characters' lives, rather than just background details.

The performances in this episode are strong, with Erick Avari's Nicodemus taking center stage. His portrayal of a man torn between his faith and the limitations of his understanding is nuanced and compelling. The tension between the religious leaders and the people is depicted well, highlighting the complexity of Nicodemus's role in society. Meanwhile, Shahar Isaac brings a rugged, pragmatic energy to Simon, whose desperation to provide for his family drives much of the narrative tension. The ensemble cast starts to come together more fully in this episode, building anticipation for future interactions.

The cinematography continues to impress, especially in the scenes depicting the contrast between the peaceful Shabbat meals and the chaos outside. The editing is tight, seamlessly cutting between the different storylines while maintaining a cohesive flow. The episode's pacing is more dynamic than the first, balancing quieter moments of reflection with bursts of tension, particularly in Simon's storyline. The music also plays a more prominent role here, underscoring the sacredness of Shabbat with gentle, reverent tones.

Themes of faith and doubt take center stage in this episode, particularly through Nicodemus's arc. His struggle to reconcile the miracles he witnesses with his rigid understanding of the law reflects the broader tension between tradition and the new teachings Jesus will eventually bring. The episode subtly sets the stage for these coming challenges while also exploring the more immediate, personal struggles of its characters.

In conclusion, "Shabbat" deepens the world of The Chosen by introducing new characters and expanding on cultural context. The episode balances character development with thematic exploration, creating a richer, more immersive experience. The pacing is more varied than the first episode, making it a more engaging watch overall.

I've been an avid Bible student since I was 21 years old. Prior to that I lived my life without caring what my Creator thought about my choices. My Bible study has only increased in the over the 40 years since I first started reading the Gospel accounts.

I know the Bible very well and am thoroughly enjoying The Chosen series. Naturally, since I am so familiar with the Bible account, I have some opinions about this series.

I believe it is important to point out that less than 10% of each episode of The Chosen is actually from the Bible accounts. Ninety percent of these episodes are embellishments; the producer's ideas of how the Bible characters may have spoken, looked and acted, beyond what is written in the Bible. I have no problem with those embellishments. As a matter of fact, I appreciate and enjoy much of the non-biblical inventions by the writers of this series.

I would like to speak about the good and the not so good embellishments created by the writers of this series. I hope you will not be offended by my critique.

Episode 2 - Simon Peter makes a deal with the Romans to settle his tax debt. The depiction of the daily life in first century Capernaum is splendid. I am really enjoying this series. I'm not so sure I like the depiction of Simon Peter being a slimeball to such a great degree. Clearly his brother Andrew knows that his behavior is reprehensible for someone who believes in Yehovah.

Two other points I'm not crazy about. First, there are Hebrew words being used in the series instead of their English translations; shabbat instead of sabbath, Yusef instead of Joseph, etc.. So then, shouldn't Christ be referred to as Y'shua? With all the other Hebrew names being used, the English name Jesus seems odd in this context. I have no problem with the transliteration Jesus, but it would work better if all the other names were the English versions as well. Second, on a historic note, the Messiah fulfilled the entire law code of Moses perfectly, without one error. He would have said the prayer for shabbat and not given Mary the option to do so in the presence of adult Jewish men. That was forbidden.

Biblical content in this episode; 1% Andrew, James, John, Matthew and Simon Peter are in the Bible; and yet the embellishments are mostly very captivating and thought provoking.

It is a beautiful episode in profound sense. Beautiful not exactly for cinematography but for refinated grace , for courage and science to build ealistic characters, for humor and emotion - the meeting between Mary and Nicodimus is just touching - . An episode about tradition and the truth defining it. Just beautiful.

What a blessing it is to see God's work in this true masterpiece sharing the truth about Christ!