Pierre J. Jordaan

The temple in 2 Maccabees : dynamics and episodes

Scholars differ among each other about the importance of the Jerusalem temple in 2 Maccabees. Some see the temple as of minor importance while others are of the opinion that the temple takes centre stage in this book. This article concurs with the second view. However, it goes further by also exploring crucial temple dynamics. These temple dynamics are determined by certain pre-set criteria and centre mainly on the relationship between God and the nation. The result is that three different temple episodes can be distinguished. The positive/negative view of each temple episode is determined by this relationship between the nation and God. This opens a new way of exploring 2 Maccabees.

A clash of hands and tongues - 2 Maccabees 14 and 15 in the framework of cognitive linguistics

ABSTRACT Applying cognitive linguistics to the text of 2 Maccabees 14 and 15 is a useful tool for our understanding of these narratives. Studying the author of 2 Maccabees 14 and 15s use of the cognitive concepts ‘hands,’ ‘right hand’ and ‘tongue’ in contrasting ways, makes it possible to reconstruct the narrative into a structure of ‘body-cosmology.’ In this exegetical structure, the narrative of 2 Maccabees 14 and 15 can be described as a confrontation between ‘that which is below’ and ‘that which is above’ or a conflict of interests between the authority of the God of the Maccabees and a gentile dictator. In this conflict between a heavenly and earthly force, the Maccabees are depicted as those who restore Gods reign by their holy actions.

Esther's Prayer in Additions to Esther: Addition C to LXX Esther—An Embodied Cognition Approach

ABSTRACT Commentators on the Septuagint normally use what can be called “mainline” or “traditional” methods to interpret texts. In this article a novel methodological approach is followed, based on recent developments in Cognitive Linguistics, specifically by utilising the theory and method underlying the concept “embodied cognition” or “embodiment”. It is argued that people interpret their environment, their lives and lifes vicissitudes unconsciously by using their bodies as point of reference. The way in which Esthers body and acts of demeaning her body is described in the prayer-scene in Addition C to LXX Esther is studied from this viewpoint. It is shown in which way traditional interpretations of the prayer-scene can be enriched by this kind of reading.