A bridge between traditional Judaism and modern Biblical scholarship
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A forum for discussing new ideas about the Bible and for scholarly analyzes of the Biblical text.
Plus a new series: A History of Jewish, Christian and Islamic Messianism
COPYRIGHT
All the material on this website is copyright and can be reproduced for personal use only.
CONTENTS
Genesis Chapter 1 and Modern Science
This essay argues that there is little concordance between Genesis chapter 1 and modern science, but it does bear some resemblance to other creation myths of the time, such as the Babylonian creation myth Enuma Elish. This chapter can best be understood as a polemic against the ideas of paganism. The creation story of Genesis I is not a scientific account. It is an allegorical poem written with imagery that would have been familiar and understandable to the generation receiving the Torah. Despite its outdated science, the contribution of this one chapter to the moral, and even scientific progress, of mankind is inestimable.
The Significance of Biblical Numbers
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
Numbers used in the Torah frequently have significance beyond their numerical value. Many of these number associations, such as for 6, 7 and 40, were probably well-known in the ancient Near East, but took on layers of new meaning when used in the Torah.
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
The question as to whether the Torah is history or allegory is not a simple one. Nevertheless, it is possible to postulate certain ideas that are compatible with a traditional belief in the authenticity and truth of the Torah.
Science, Faith and the Existence and Attributes of God
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
In this article, Dr Slyper argues that the scientific evidence for the existence of God is overwhelming, and it defies logic to confine His existence to the straightjacket of faith.
The dfferent names for God in the Torah
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
An understanding of the use of the Torah's different names for God is essential for an understanding of the progression of the text and for an appreciation of the error of Biblical criticism.
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
The question as to whether the Torah is history or allegory is not a simple one. Nevertheless, it is possible to postulate certain ideas that are compatible with a traditional belief in the authenticity and truth of the Torah.
The Garden of Eden story – sin, travail, death and hope
by Dr. Anold Slyper
It is suggested that the Garden of Eden story is an allegorical account that encapsulates some of the deepest philosophical underpinnings of Judaism. It is not a simple story, and it requires considerable analysis to reveal its profundity. But this is the hallmark of a great story.
Noah and the Flood: an Epic Poem of Mythological Proportions
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
Join the author in a fascinating journey as he explores the differences between the Biblical story of Noah and the Atrahasis and Gilgamesh epics, and examines the inappropriate attempt of Biblical criticism to split this story into two versions. This is an epic poem of considerable sophistication and beauty.
Satire in the Bible - the Ziggurat of Babylon
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
It is suggested that the Tower of Babel story is a satire on Mesopotamian paganism. It is also a lot more besides, being an integral part of the Biblical historical narrative..
God's seven blessings to Abraham
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
Abraham brought knowledge of the two aspects of God YKVK and Elohim to a world that had lost this knowledge. This is why intertwined stories about YKVK and Elokim are found in the Abraham account just as they are in the early chapters of Genesis. Abraham also demonstrated how to develop a relationship with YKVK, and in so doing established the foundations of the Jewish faith.
"Possessing" the land for the burial of Sarah
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
Why is the passage about the burial of Sarah written in such a detailed and repetitive way? It is argued that it has much to do with the Covenant of Circumcision and God's promise to Abraham and his offspring of a "possession" in the land of Canaan
Isaac and Abraham, Ishmael and Hagar - a Story yet Incomplete
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
The names Isaac and Ishmael were given by God. Not surprisingly, therefore, the significance of these two names will resonate throughout history.
The moral and religious conflict between Judaism and Islam
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
Many, if not most, of the concepts that Mohammad incorporated into his new religion have their origin in Judaism, although Jewish values were frequently distorted. It is suggested that much of the turbulence engulfing the Middle East is the result of an eschatological conflict between Judaism and Islam. Islam will only cease to be a threat to world peace when it comes to an accommodation with Judaism.
The Binding of Isaac - the Non-event that Changed the World
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
As with many stories in Genesis, the Binding of Isaac story (the Akeida) is multidimensional, and its 19 sentences contain layer upon layer of profound ideas.
Jacob and Esau - Blessings and Birthright and Jewish Powerlessness
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
Joseph- the right person in the right place at the right time
By Dr. Arnold Slyper
Joseph was an amazing person. Whenever possible he promoted the idea that God, through His aspect of Elokim, involves Himself in the affairs of nations. His family retained their belief in God despite living in a heavily pagan environment. He was a role model for how Jews in a position of power should use that power to safeguard their people. And he was an example as to how those in public service should use that position not to benefit themselves but to promote the welfare of everyone.
THE BOOK OF EXODUS
The Date of the Exodus: A Guide to the Orthodox Perplexed
By Mitchell First
This well-researched article argues that a 13th century Exodus, involving Ramesses II or Merneptah, is most compatible with modern archeological findings and Biblical scholarship.
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
THE BOOK OF NUMBERS
by Dr. Arnold Slyper
BABYLONIAN/PERSIAN EXILE PERIOD
Identifying Achashverosh and Esther in Secular Sources
by Arnold Slyper
My book "In and Around Jerusalem is now available on Amazon.com
The price in the US is $29.95
“In and Around Jerusalem for Everyone” is a 318-page beautifully illustrated book in color containing the best 20 walks in Jerusalem and 23 hikes in the countryside around Jerusalem, including the Judean Desert. Most of the hikes are easily reachable by public transport, and include Waze and Moovit destinations. Most of the chapters contain descriptions of nearby fun attractions such as museums, workshops and amusement parks together with a QR code. Throughout the book are short engaging essays on the historic and geographic significance of the places being visited. There is also a section on natural pools suitable for swimming and outdoor swimming pools. With this book in your hand you have everything you would love to know about Jerusalem and the areas around Jerusalem!
Watch this short video about the book!
If you live in Israel, see the Homepage of my website inandaroundjerusalem.com for other purchasing options.
COPYRIGHT
All the material on this website is copyright and can only be reproduced for personal use.
TWO BOOKS BY THE AUTHOR OF THIS WEBSITE
"The Struggle for Utopia. A History of Jewish, Christian and Islamic Messianism" by Arnold Slyper
The concept of a utopian society was developed by the Torah and represented a momentous milestone in the history of civilization. This idea would evolve within Judaism into the messianic concept. But where exactly did this messianic concept from? How did Christianity and Islam adopt the messianic idea? Why did many Christians and Muslims eventually turn against Jews to the point of hatred? Is the current redemption of the Jewish people foretold by the Torah and ancient prophets of Israel messianic or not? And if not, what is it? These are some of the questions that provided the impetus for this book.
To explore these issues, Dr. Arnold Slyper describes the stories of the individuals most influential in developing utopian and messianic concepts for the three main monotheistic faiths. He relates how these ideas were influenced by the historic period in which they lived, and how their ideas influenced Jewish and world history. These figures include Abraham, Moses, the prophets Isaiah, Micah, Jeremiah, Haggai and Zechariah, John the Baptist, Jesus of Nazareth, Paul of Tarsus, Muhammad, Maimonides, Nachmanides, Rav Kook, and the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem Amin al-Husseini. When laid out together, they make a fascinating epic story.
This is an academic book with numerous footnotes in its 17 chapters. It is also very readable and riveting. It is not a religious work per se but a history book, albeit written from a Jewish perspective. As such, it contains numerous Biblical and post-Biblical theological positions.
Other topics covered are ethics, redemption, death, resurrection, jihad, End of the World, apocalypse, and the Temple Mount.
The book is available as a paperback ($20) and hardback ($30) on Amazon.
Available in Israel at Pomeranz Bookstore in Jerusalem (will deliver - 02 623 5559) and through the website of Kochav Press (free delivery).
Watch a short video about the book!
My book "In and Around Jerusalem for Everyone" is available on Amazon.com
The give-away price on Amazon is only $4.36!
“In and Around Jerusalem for Everyone” is a 318-page beautifully illustrated book in color containing the best 20 walks in Jerusalem and 23 hikes in the countryside around Jerusalem, including the Judean Desert. Most of the hikes are easily reachable by public transport, and include Waze and Moovit destinations. Most of the chapters contain descriptions of nearby fun attractions such as museums, workshops and amusement parks together with a QR code. Throughout the book are short engaging essays on the historic and geographic significance of the places being visited. There is also a section on natural pools suitable for swimming and outdoor swimming pools. With this book in your hand you have everything you would love to know about Jerusalem and the areas around Jerusalem!
Watch this short video about the book!
Available in Israel at Pomeranz Bookstore in Jerusalem (will deliver - 02 623 5559) and through the website of Kochav Press (with free delivery in Israel).
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