The Talmud does contain references to a figure named "Yeshu," often interpreted by some scholars as a reference to Jesus. However, these references are generally negative, portraying Yeshu as a false messiah, blasphemer, and idolater. Some scholars believe these narratives are a deliberate anti-Christian polemic..."
Yeshu in the Talmud:
The Talmud uses the name "Yeshu" (the Aramaic vocalization of the Hebrew name Yeshua), which is believed by some to refer to Jesus.
Negative Portrayal:
The Talmudic passages about Yeshu generally portray him as a false messiah, an idolater, and someone who deserved execution for blasphemy.
Anti-Christian Polemic:
Scholars like Peter Schäfer argue that these stories are a deliberate anti-Christian polemic, according to Amazon and that they parody New Testament narratives.
Different Perspectives:
There are varying scholarly views on the extent to which these references are actually to Jesus, and some scholars distinguish between Babylonian and Palestinian sources.
Historical Context:
The Talmud was written during a period of Jewish persecution in Palestine and relative freedom in Babylonia, which some scholars believe shaped the nature of the anti-Christian polemic.
Rabbinic Interpretations:
Some rabbis have interpreted the references to Yeshu as referring to a different figure, a disciple of Joshua ben Perachiah, and not Jesus, according to Wikipedia.
In essence, the Talmud's portrayal of Yeshu is not a positive one, and many scholars believe it represents a deliberate counter-narrative to the Christian understanding of Jesus. " - AI Overview.
