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/lp/brill/the-reversal-of-fortune-theme-in-esther-israelite-historiography-in-Kf60yY6NrJ
- Publisher
- Brill
- Copyright
- © Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, The Netherlands
- ISSN
- 1569-2116
- eISSN
- 1569-2124
- DOI
- 10.1163/156921211X603940
- Publisher site
- See Article on Publisher Site
Abstract
Abstract This paper examines the idea of reversal in Esther, arguably the most basic thematic constituent of that work, in an attempt to understand its background and meaning. It posits for it a historical context based on a reaction to contemporary ancient Near Eastern intellectual currents. Specifically this centers on Babylonian divination, astrology in particular, whose recognition as a serious branch of scientific reasoning in the ancient world was undeniable—or so it seems. The Book of Esther, which, as this paper demonstrates, manifests an unmistakable familiarity with this divinatory lore, itself partakes in the broader conversation. But, in accordance with its overring theme, it comes down on the matter with a reverse verdict.
Journal
Journal of Ancient Near Eastern Religions – Brill
Published: Jan 1, 2011
Keywords: Esther; Israelite historiography; reversal theme; counter history; Babylonian divinatory sciences; Babylonian astronomy and astology; pûr/pūru ; calendars; hemerologies and menologies; yôm ṭôb/ūmu ṭābu ; zĕmān/simanu ; yōdĕʿê hāʿittîm and ṭupšar Enūma Anu Enlil ; pars familiaris–pars hostilis ; nipḫu ; reversal