Karel van der Toorn Livres

Based on a previously unexplored source, this book transforms the way we think about the formation of Jewish identity číst celé

Focusing on the religious practices of ancient Babylonian, Syrian, and Israelite families, this work analyzes rites related to ancestor worship and local deities through extensive documentation. It highlights how these practices shaped followers' identities, particularly examining the interplay between family and state religion in Israel, especially during King Saul's reign. The competition and mutual influence between civil and private religion reveal essential insights into the evolution of Israelite religion during the monarchic period.

We think of the Hebrew Bible as the Book - and yet it was produced by a largely nonliterate culture in which writing, editing, copying, interpretation, and public reading were the work of a professional elite. This work offers an introduction to the scribes of ancient Israel - the main figures behind the Hebrew Bible.

Exploring a millennium of Israelite religion, this work delves into the evolution from the Iron Age to the emergence of Judaism. The renowned biblical scholar provides a comprehensive analysis of religious practices, beliefs, and transformations throughout this significant historical period, offering insights into the cultural and spiritual developments that shaped early Jewish identity. The narrative weaves together archaeological findings and textual evidence, presenting a rich tapestry of faith and tradition in ancient Israel.

In this work, Karel van der Toorn explores the social setting, the intellectual milieu, and the historical context of the beliefs and practices reflected in the Hebrew Bible. While fully recognizing the unique character of early Israelite religion, the author challenges the notion of its incomparability. Beliefs are anchored in culture. Rituals have societal significance. God has a history. By shifting the focus to the context, the essays gathered here yield a deeper understanding of Israelite religion and the origins of the Bible.