Son of Man

Son of Man is the title Jesus most frequently used of himself in the Gospels — a deliberately ambiguous phrase rooted in the Old Testament that simultaneously emphasizes his true humanity and points to his divine glory as the eschatological judge who comes on the clouds of heaven (CCC 440).

The Old Testament Background

The phrase "son of man" in Hebrew simply means "human being" — Ezekiel uses it throughout his book as God's address to him as a mortal. But Daniel 7:13–14 gives the phrase an exalted meaning: "I saw one like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven... He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion" (CCC 440).

Jesus's Use of the Title

Jesus used "Son of Man" in three distinct ways: to emphasize his earthly life and solidarity with humanity ("The Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head," Matthew 8:20); to announce his suffering and death ("The Son of Man must suffer," Mark 8:31); and to declare his future glory ("You will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds," Matthew 26:64; CCC 440).

The Climax at the Trial

When Jesus answered the High Priest's question "Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?" with "I am, and you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power and coming with the clouds of heaven" (Mark 14:62), he combined Daniel's "Son of Man" with Psalm 110 and applied both to himself — a claim of divine authority that led directly to his condemnation for blasphemy (CCC 440).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jesus prefer this title over others? "Son of Man" was not a recognized messianic title with fixed political expectations — it gave Jesus freedom to define his mission on his own terms, gradually revealing who he was through his actions and words rather than conforming to preconceived expectations (CCC 440).