Sinning in the Hebrew Bible

How the Worst Stories Speak for Its Truth

Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, Judaism, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science
Cover of the book Sinning in the Hebrew Bible by Alan Segal, Columbia University Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Alan Segal ISBN: 9780231504348
Publisher: Columbia University Press Publication: July 3, 2012
Imprint: Columbia University Press Language: English
Author: Alan Segal
ISBN: 9780231504348
Publisher: Columbia University Press
Publication: July 3, 2012
Imprint: Columbia University Press
Language: English

Stories of rape, murder, adultery, and conquest raise crucial issues in the Hebrew Bible, and their interpretation helps societies form their religious and moral beliefs. From the sacrifice of Isaac to the adultery of David, narratives of sin engender vivid analysis and debate, powering the myths that form the basis of the religious covenant, or the relationship between a people and their God.

Rereading these stories in their different forms and varying contexts, Alan F. Segal demonstrates the significance of sinning throughout history and today. Drawing on literary and historical theory, as well as research in the social sciences, he explores the motivation for creating sin stories, their prevalence in the Hebrew Bible, and their possible meaning to Israelite readers and listeners. After introducing the basics of his approach and outlining several hermeneutical concepts, Segal conducts seven linked studies of specific narratives, using character and text to clarify problematic terms such as "myth," "typology," and "orality." Following the reappearance and reinterpretation of these narratives in later compositions, he proves their lasting power in the mythology of Israel and the encapsulation of universal, perennially relevant themes. Segal ultimately positions the Hebrew Bible as a foundational moral text and a history book, offering uncommon insights into the dating of biblical events and the intentions of biblical authors.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Stories of rape, murder, adultery, and conquest raise crucial issues in the Hebrew Bible, and their interpretation helps societies form their religious and moral beliefs. From the sacrifice of Isaac to the adultery of David, narratives of sin engender vivid analysis and debate, powering the myths that form the basis of the religious covenant, or the relationship between a people and their God.

Rereading these stories in their different forms and varying contexts, Alan F. Segal demonstrates the significance of sinning throughout history and today. Drawing on literary and historical theory, as well as research in the social sciences, he explores the motivation for creating sin stories, their prevalence in the Hebrew Bible, and their possible meaning to Israelite readers and listeners. After introducing the basics of his approach and outlining several hermeneutical concepts, Segal conducts seven linked studies of specific narratives, using character and text to clarify problematic terms such as "myth," "typology," and "orality." Following the reappearance and reinterpretation of these narratives in later compositions, he proves their lasting power in the mythology of Israel and the encapsulation of universal, perennially relevant themes. Segal ultimately positions the Hebrew Bible as a foundational moral text and a history book, offering uncommon insights into the dating of biblical events and the intentions of biblical authors.

More books from Columbia University Press

Cover of the book Recognition or Disagreement by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Trauma Transformed by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Corporate Risk Management by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Derrida/Searle by Alan Segal
Cover of the book What to Do When College Is Not the Best Time of Your Life by Alan Segal
Cover of the book The City Trilogy by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Investment: A History by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Buying Military Transformation by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Teen Movies by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Love in Motion by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Race and Secularism in America by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Chinese History and Culture by Alan Segal
Cover of the book The Risks of Prescription Drugs by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Race and the Genetic Revolution by Alan Segal
Cover of the book Insurgents, Terrorists, and Militias by Alan Segal
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy