Correct translation?

[gregglaser]

If it is correct that its in the perfect tense there, should it be accurately translated in English as "wasn't this the son of the carpenter" or "Isn't this the son of the carpenter."

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Also, I have a personal question to ask you Gregg, so I'll ask you in the PM section.

Shlama

"Was this not the son of the carpenter?" is indeed an optional translation.  I think the likelihood of that option is primarily informed by John 6:42 and Mark 6:3.  But a past tense reading cannot be disproven by Matthew 13:55 alone.  I would say it's a very meaningful option.  I had not fully considered it until our series of posts. I think it's also interesting to consider the ܡܬܩܪܝܐ  later in the verse, as that verb conjugation can also be present tense or past tense. 

Also, thanks for the PM. I emailed you too so hopefully you received.

Shlama