Buch, Englisch, Band 71, 383 Seiten, Format (B × H): 151 mm x 231 mm, Gewicht: 556 g
Buch, Englisch, Band 71, 383 Seiten, Format (B × H): 151 mm x 231 mm, Gewicht: 556 g
Reihe: Contributions to Biblical Exeg
ISBN: 978-90-429-3014-8
Verlag: PEETERS PUB
Biblical Tamar (Genesis 38) is an important and enigmatic figure. The
enigma stems from the dichotomy between Tamar’s daring, unconventional
behavior and her elevation to prominence in the Bible and later Jewish
traditions. Despite her transgressive behavior, Tamar, who tricks Judah,
is praised by him; she ultimately becomes King David’s ancestress and a
heroine to later commentators. Indeed, Tamar is raised to the level of a
saint in ancient liturgical poetry, acquiring cosmic significance in
mystical traditions, and serving as a representative of the
disenfranchised in modern feminist interpretation.
This study traces the transformation of Tamar, beginning with the
earliest interpreters such as the Targum, Philo, Pseudepigrapha, early
Midrash and Talmud. It proceeds with the classic medieval commentators,
the Hasidic writings, and feminist interpreters of the modern period.
The work includes an introduction to each of these genres of Jewish
literature in which Tamar appears. The panoramic perspective of
interpretive traditions shows how commentators articulate their own
communities’ moral lessons and religious ideals, with Tamar as an
exemplar.
