Afleveringen
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In this scholarly inquiry, Nathan French seeks to address the question: what is the most accurate interpretation of הדעת טוב ורע, or "The Knowledge of Good and Evil," as mentioned in Gen 2:9, 17; 3:5, and 3:22? In Gen 3:5 and 3:22, this knowledge is associated with God and divine beings. This research delves into the variations of טוב ("good") and רעע ("evil/bad") found in the Hebrew Bible, primarily concentrating on Genesis and the Deuteronomistic History, particularly examining instances where God exerts influence over 'good' and 'bad/evil.' Based on the findings, Nathan French introduces a secondary discussion centered on the hermeneutical principle of divine retribution as a foundational aspect of ancient Near Eastern historiography. On a tertiary level, French explores the concepts of divine blessing and cursing, linking them to good and evil in both ancient Near Eastern literature and the Hebrew Bible. Through this focused theocentric analysis of the lexemes, combined with a broader examination of ancient Near Eastern history and culture, French proposes an answer to the central question of this study: 'The Divine Knowledge for Administering Reward and Punishment.' Thus, the Eden Narrative illustrates how humans partially achieve divinity, becoming akin to God and the divine beings (Gen 3:5; 3:22; Ps 82) by acquiring the forbidden divine knowledge that grants them ultimate power.
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This intimate self-portrait of Ester-Rokhl Kaminska (1870–1925), a pioneering Yiddish actress, first appeared in the Warsaw daily *Der Moment* (1926-7) and is now translated into English for the first time. The memoir takes us through her life, illustrating the rise of this significant artist and her art form, as we follow Kaminska's challenging journey from shtetl to city, her illegal performances in unexpected venues across the Russian Empire, and her eventual acclaim from the public. The memoirs richly convey the everyday realities faced by working Jewish women, capturing the grit and the hard-won glamour of backstage life (or, in her case, back-barn/barrack/barroom). An extensive introduction and notes by Mikhl Yashinsky provide historical context and an evaluation of Kaminska's groundbreaking talent.
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The early rabbinic era produced two main literary forms—the Mishnah and Midrash—which have since become fundamental pillars of Jewish textual tradition.
This monograph serves as the first comprehensive introduction to these two crucial works of Jewish thought in the English language. In many ways, all later rabbinic literature can trace its roots back to the framework established by these two genres.
The Mishnah established a complete legal system that operates independently of the Bible, covering a remarkably broad spectrum of legal topics—from ritual law to civil disputes, capital legislation, marital status, and beyond—woven into a coherent and self-sustaining legal corpus.
The Midrash is acknowledged as the first extensive commentary on the Pentateuch, characterized by its interpretive freedom and creative engagement. This practical guide offers a deep understanding of how the two texts function and provides essential tools for thorough engagement with them.
With translations, detailed readings, and analyses of hundreds of primary source materials, this book grants readers a deeper understanding of the structure, methodology, and enduring significance of the Mishnah and Midrash. -
This study contests the perspective that the Persian and Hellenistic periods signify a decline, often referred to as "late Judaism," situated between a once-vibrant Judaism and the rise of Christianity.
Conversely, Hindy Najman contends that the Second Temple period was distinguished by unrestrained creativity and poetic imagination, characterized by philosophical translation, poetic composition, and a convergence of ancient Mediterranean cultures that encouraged hermeneutic innovation. By building on Friedrich Nietzsche's critique of classical philology and exploring new interpretative methods for the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Najman initiates a radical rethinking of biblical studies.
Rather than attempting to reconstruct the original text or identify its original author or context, Najman celebrates the diversity and transformation of texts, tracing how meanings and texts proliferated within interpretive communities through innovative performances and new articulations of the past.
Engaging with thinkers such as Friedrich Schlegel and Peter Szondi, who are rarely acknowledged by biblical scholars, biblical philology is reimagined as a forward-moving study of the poetic processes through which Jewish communities re-created their past and revitalized their present.
The Second Temple period emerges as an extraordinary age of creativity, whose influences may still be observed in contemporary Judaism and Christianity.
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We interpret the world surrounding us through the constructed spaces we inhabit. These spaces are formed by human activities and, in turn, shape the way people live. This book delves into an analysis of archaeological and textual evidence from the inception of Hasmonean influence in Galilee to the outbreak of the First Jewish War against Rome, exploring how Judaism was socially articulated: in bodily, communal, and regional dimensions. Within each articulation, certain elements of Jewish identity are present, including ideas of purity, communal gatherings, and Galilee's ties with the Hasmoneans, Jerusalem, and the Temple during its last days.
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This monograph explores the concept of scribal culture as a lens for analyzing the characteristics of textual referencing in the Book of Ben Sira (c.198-175 BCE), offering fresh perspectives on how Ben Sira crafted his wisdom literature. While the term "scribe" is frequently attributed to Ben Sira, this label brings with it certain interpretive difficulties. By employing comparative analysis, this study situates the sage’s writing style within various historical, literary, and socio-cultural contexts. It illuminates aspects of Ben Sira’s text and the early Jewish practice of textual reuse. Utilizing both physical and material evidence related to reading and writing, this book uncovers the skill and intricacy involved in Ben Sira’s ongoing textual reuse. Consequently, Ben Sira’s work exemplifies outstanding writing that resonates with an appreciative audience.
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For over two and a half centuries, the study of biblical Hebrew poetry has largely been influenced by metrical theories and the concept of parallelism. Although there is a growing agreement that biblical poetry does not adhere to metrical norms, a cohesive understanding of parallelism itself, or the features that classify biblical poetry as 'verse' or 'poetry' in the absence of meter, graphical lineation, and line-ending markers, has not yet been achieved.
This monograph argues for the necessity of a new paradigm for biblical poetry, one that separates itself from both parallelism and meter. By employing the Cognitive Poetics framework developed by Reuven Tsur, Emmylou Grosser shifts the conversation regarding the structure of biblical poetry towards the auditory and perceptual experiences of the listener or reader. She contends that the line-units of biblical poetry emerge within the cognitive experience of the audience and offers a comprehensive analysis of the free-rhythm versification system that is intrinsic to biblical poetry.
Grosser's cognitive perspective on biblical poetry tackles the extensive variety of lines and poems found in the Bible, shedding light on both the structural elements of biblical poetry and the artistic effects that can be achieved. This book presents a promising new paradigm for those who engage with the Bible, while also opening avenues for new investigations into nonmetrical poetries and the notion of 'parallelism' observed globally. -
Violence emerges as a pivotal theme within the Dead Sea Scrolls. It captivated the Sectarians who penned these scrolls, viewing themselves as victims of oppression. Their apocalyptic vision was filled with aspirations of retribution against their foes. In this scholarly work, Alex P. Jassen examines the intricate relationship between violence and power as depicted in the Dead Sea Scrolls and the ancient sectarian movement that both created and preserved these texts. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach, he offers profound insights into the origins and significance of violence for those connected to the Dead Sea Scrolls. He demonstrates how they navigated a landscape overshadowed by more powerful Jewish factions and the overwhelming influence of foreign entities. Jassen investigates the complex interplay between violence, power, and social groups, drawing on cross-cultural instances of sectarianism, millennial movements, and marginalized communities, with particular emphasis on New Religious movements such as the Branch Davidians.
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Performance, transmission, and corporeality were crucial to ancient understandings of textuality. Written text was far more than a mere memory aid; it served as a formidable tool for encapsulating and conveying the essence of embodied vocal presence. In this audacious and perceptive book, Jacqueline Vayntrub elucidates how the core concepts of embodied speechmaking shaped a tradition of aesthetics and interpretation in the Hebrew Bible. For both authors and readers, biblical texts functioned as vessels that preserved voices for future generations, capturing transient moments of performance and transporting audiences to an idealized or stylized past. Through in-depth analyses of various passages and examinations of the social and material dimensions of speech in the ancient Near East, Vayntrub presents a compelling reimagining of the biblical authors’ perspective on literary creation.
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What new insights from readers were vital for the creation of both the Book of Isaiah and external texts such as the Gospel of Luke? In this meticulously curated volume, a team of esteemed international scholars who specialize in Isaiah explores, for the first time, the intricate roles that readers have in shaping and interpreting the Book of Isaiah. Traditionally, since the rise of exegesis as a critical field, considerable attention has been directed towards the author's impact on the development of biblical texts. However, with the recent progress in literary studies regarding the role of the reader, it becomes crucial to also examine the exegetical question of how readers influence the text. As a text progresses, it inherently reflects a shift in its audience. Therefore, the evolution and reception of the Isaian text can be understood as a result of this continuous transformation.
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This study investigates the understanding of God as presented by the medieval Jewish philosopher and legal scholar, Hasdai Crescas (1340-1410/11). It illustrates that Crescas perceives God as infinitely creative and benevolent, while also examining the implicit comparison he makes between God as both creator and legislator. This comparison is based on his belief in the Deity's ongoing engagement in generative processes, characterized by the continuous flow of goodness and love, which is expressed through multiple, simultaneous, and successive worlds, as well as an ever-expanding Torah. Additionally, the work considers the Maimonidean context for Crescas' views and posits that Crescas is responding to Maimonides' assertion that creation occurs only at a single moment, along with Maimonides' idea of the Torah as perfect and unchanging.
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In this book, Aubrey Buster reveals how techniques taken from cultural and social memory studies, along with the new formalism, can illuminate the communal importance of biblical and extra-biblical historical summaries during the Second Temple period. By refining models inspired by memory studies, Buster applies them to ancient texts, showcasing the development of Judah's narrative about their history throughout the Second Temple era. Buster's thorough research uncovers how and where the historical summary plays a role in the book of Psalms, Nehemiah, 1 and 2 Chronicles, as well as in the Qumran Psalms Scrolls, Words of the Luminaries, Paraphrase of Genesis and Exodus, and Pseudo-Daniel. Buster demonstrates that the historical summary functions as a generative, replicable, and ultimately fruitful form of memory. By transcending genre boundaries and time frames, liturgical performances, and literary works, these historical summaries created a highly selective yet broadly applicable means of commemorating significant events from Israel's history.
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Throughout their history, Jews have been under the sway of various imperial powers, from Assyria and Babylonia to Persia and the Hellenistic kingdoms. This monograph illustrates how the Roman Empire posed a unique challenge to Jewish intellectuals like Philo, Josephus, and the Palestinian rabbis, who both resisted and assimilated Roman ideals and imperial ideology.
Katell Berthelot investigates how, well before the empire adopted Christianity, Jews began to view Israel and Rome as adversaries vying for dominance. Each side regarded its laws as the most flawless ever composed, and both believed themselves to be a devout people tasked with a divine mission to establish order and peace in the world. Berthelot argues that the rabbinic association of Rome with Esau, the twin brother of Israel, mirrored this competitive spirit. She examines how this challenge reshaped ancient Jewish perspectives on military strength and the application of force, legal authority, and inclusion within the community of Israel. Berthelot posits that Jewish thinkers sometimes emulated Roman practices while at other times proposing alternative frameworks.
Offering fresh insights into Jewish thought during antiquity, this monograph uncovers how Jewish interactions with pagan Rome led to significant developments in the understanding of the Torah and the process of conversion to Judaism. -
The biblical narrative surrounding Sinai and Moses is pivotal to Jewish and Western culture; however, it has often been regarded only from a religious perspective. In this study, Dr. Rinat Harash offers an insightful interpretation, utilizing Nietzsche’s concepts of the Apollonian, the Dionysian, and the Übermensch in the context of the revelation at Mount Sinai, the Golden Calf incident, the building of the Tabernacle, and the esteemed figure of Moses. Her research sheds light on both the core Jewish myth and Nietzsche’s philosophical ideas, creating a unique blend that connects religion and art, merging the two opposing forces that are key to Western civilization—Jerusalem and Athens.
To learn more about Dr. Harash's educational initiative to help young adults learn from Friedrich Nietzsche's teachings, *Strong from Within*, please see the following webpage:
Link: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/StrongFromWithinShop?ref=profile_header
The book may be purchased at the following website:
Link: https://www.academicstudiespress.com/9798897831036/
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This study investigates Tertullian, known as the first individual to articulate Christian theology in Latin. It emphasizes the critical issues that are essential for understanding his biography and works, particularly focusing on his depiction of the Jews within the broader context of early Christian literature. This subject provides an opportunity to evaluate how socio-historical factors have influenced scholars' interpretations over the centuries regarding the portrayal of Jews in patristic writings, thus underscoring the importance of objectivity in academic inquiry. Finally, instances of the diverse representations of Jews in Tertullian's writings are presented to scrutinize the range of his viewpoints, understand his position in relation to other Christian authors, and investigate how his work mirrors the evolution of Christian identity during his era.
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This monograph presents an innovative perspective on gender and embodiment as depicted in the Hebrew Bible. It argues that prophecy disrupts traditional notions of masculinity and alters the way the mainly male Hebrew prophets perceive their physical selves. Furthermore, the prophet's body is framed as a queer entity. The book explores prophetic masculinity through critical analyses of various prophetic figures, including Isaiah, Moses, Hosea, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. Alongside thorough examinations of the biblical texts, this narrative interacts with contemporary intertexts from philosophy, psychoanalysis, and horror cinema: Isaiah is juxtaposed with the poetry of Anne Carson; Hosea is analyzed through the lens of possession films and feminist film theory; Jeremiah is linked to psychoanalytic concepts of hysteria; and Ezekiel is associated with Daniel Paul Schreber's *Memoirs of My Nervous Illness*. Additionally, the book offers a detailed examination of Moses's body. This interpretative approach uncovers surprising aspects of the biblical texts and elucidates the unique intersections of masculinity, prophecy, and the body both within and beyond the Hebrew Bible. Engaging with prophecy and prophetic masculinity is essential for queer interpretations. Biblical prophecy cultivates new expressions of masculinity and embodiment; this research provides an important framework for navigating this largely unexplored territory.
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Rich in historical significance and contemporary relevance, this monograph provides readers with a deep understanding of Ethiopia’s enduring role in the Judeo-Christian narrative—spanning from the past, through the present, and into the future.
This research represents a groundbreaking academic endeavor that emphasizes the unique Judeo-Christian heritage of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church (EOTC). Through eight insightful chapters written by both established and emerging scholars, this volume explores how the EOTC—deeply rooted in Ethiopia’s historical background—blends the Old and New Testaments within its rituals, customs, and identity.
Situated at the crossroads of history, trade, and cultural exchange, Ethiopia has traditionally served as a refuge for the three Abrahamic faiths. Its geographical characteristics and culture of acceptance have nurtured a spirit of tolerance that, despite occasional challenges, has fostered connections over the ages. This context makes the EOTC’s fusion of traditions remarkably distinctive.
Furthermore, the book sheds light on the history and current circumstances of the Beta Israel community. Their recent return to Israel has brought about new dynamics, as they, like many groups in various societies, face identity challenges while contributing to the formation of a pluralistic and inclusive nation.
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This work offers a detailed overview of the history, essence, and impact of biblical law. It delves into the discussions surrounding the nature of biblical law, analyzing its historical backdrop, the importance of its regulations, and its effect on early Judaism and Christianity. The volume also poses essential questions: Were these regulations intended to act as the statutory law of ancient Israel? Is there any evidence indicating they had a different role? How does this legal material relate to other sections of the Hebrew Bible? Most crucially, the book conducts a comprehensive analysis of the Torah's laws, featuring individual essays on substantive, procedural, and ritual law. With contributions from a diverse group of experts, specifically crafted for this volume, this book provides a contemporary viewpoint on the scholarship of biblical law and highlights themes and topics for future exploration.
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Scholars agree that comfort and memory are key, interrelated themes in Isaiah 40–55; however, the notion of collective memory has not been specifically investigated to shed light on the link between memory and comfort. Sociological studies concerning memory and trauma theory address this methodological gap by outlining how the concept of memory is developed within Second Isaiah. This monograph employs such theoretical insights to comprehend how Second Isaiah articulates its message of comfort.
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In this scholarly work, Eva Tyrell undertakes a comparative analysis of narrative devices in two prominent ancient texts that reflect on the past. By fusing a narratological approach with perspectives from contemporary historical theory and biblical scholarship, she scrutinizes the patterns of narrative persuasion as a trans-cultural phenomenon and their association with ancient ideas of reality and truth. The work contrasts the fundamental narrative structures of both texts, including aspects such as mediacy and the differentiation between discursive and diegetic text portions. It also examines the role of material artifacts referenced in the narratives to evoke or even fabricate the reality of a historical past.
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