embodying the oral tradition of Jewish law and forming the first part of the Talmud—mentions that sexual activity between betrothed couples occasionally occurred in the Jewish community, but such intercourse was considered unacceptable. Pregnancy during a betrothal would bring great shame. Ein Kerem village; traditional birthplace of John the Baptist LC-matpc–00964/www.LifeintheHolyLand.com Mary’s early life was in Sepphoris, a thriving community in Galilee. Her mother, Anna, had moved to Nazareth,