Conversations on Canaanite and Biblical Themes

Arguments over the relationship between Canaanite and Israelite religion often derive from fundamental differences in presupposition, methodology and definition, yet debate typically focuses in on details and encourages polarization between opposing views, inhibiting progress. This volume seeks to initiate a cultural change in scholarly practice by setting up dialogues between pairs of experts in the field who hold contrasting views.

Each pair discusses a clearly defined issue through the lens of a particular biblical passage, responding to each other's arguments and offering their reflections on the process. Topics range from the apparent application of 'chaos' and 'divine warrior' symbolism to Yahweh in Habakkuk 3, the evidence for 'monotheism' in pre-Exilic Judah in 2 Kings 2223, and the possible presence of 'chaos' or creatio ex nihilo in Genesis 1 and Psalm 74. This approach encourages the recognition of points of agreement as well as differences and exposes some of the underlying issues that inhibit consensus. In doing so, it consolidates much that has been achieved in the past, offers fresh ideas and perspective and, through intense debate, subjects new ideas to thorough critique and suggests avenues for further research.

Auteur

Rebecca Watson, Faraday-Institut für Wissenschaft und Religion, Cambridge, Adrian H. W. Curtis, Universität Manchester, UK.

Texte du rabat

In these conversations on Canaanite and biblical themes, six scholars debate the implications of key passages (Genesis 1; Habbakuk 3; and 2 Kings 22 23) for understanding ancient concepts of creation, chaos, monotheism and Yahwism itself. This book reveals methods and processes of scholarly enquiry and the issues underlying current disagreements, while advancing research in the relation between the Hebrew Bible and Canaanite religion.