the events leading up to the birth (1:18–25). Mary’s pregnancy calls into question her legitimacy as a wife for Joseph, who is described as a righteous man (1:19). She is in the same dangerous position that threatened Joseph’s ancestor Tamar. Although Joseph’s compassion prevents Mary from being put to death for this scandal, his decision to divorce her sharply raises the issue of legitimacy that runs through his family history. The angel’s appearance to Joseph helps him see that God’s purposes are