Being Jewish in the Aramaic dead sea scrolls: Ancestral profiles of identity

Hama, Matthew (2023). Being Jewish in the Aramaic dead sea scrolls: Ancestral profiles of identity. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

Preview

Hama2023PhD.pdf
Text - Accepted Version
Available under License All rights reserved.
Download (2MB) | Preview

Abstract

This study explores the notion of Jewish identity in the Aramaic DSS through the lens of the individual figures of Levi, Qahat, and Amram, and their associated traditions. It traces previous trends in Jewish identity research, recognizing a notable interest in understanding both the nature and contours of Jewish identity, as well as a sense of underlying unity and diversity across various literary expressions. This investigation explores Jewish identity from a figure-focused perspective, building upon past research on foundational figures and developing impressions on the nature and significance of traditions outside of the modern Hebrew Scriptures. The Aramaic DSS offer an ideal departure point for these questions given their relatively recent publication and their inclusion of a wider complex of understudied ancient Jewish figures. This work explores the earliest and most concentrated portraits of each figure in the Aramaic DSS, strategically concentrating around the intersections that each develops in relation to the concepts of kinship, tradition, revelation, time, and space. This investigation both adds precision to our understanding of Jewish identity for the three figures of Levi, Qahat, and Amram and contributes to wider conceptions of Jewish identity. It underscores the present value and future potential of related figure-based investigations.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):