Open Yale Courses

RLST 145: Introduction to the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible)

Lecture 9 - The Priestly Legacy: Cult and Sacrifice, Purity and Holiness
in Leviticus and Numbers
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Overview:

In this lecture, the Priestly source (P) found primarily in Leviticus and Numbers is introduced. The symbolism of the sacrificial cult and purity system, the differences between moral and ritual impurity, as well as holiness and purity are explained within the Priestly context. The concept of holiness and imitatio dei, or human imitation of God, is explained.

Reading assignment:

Bible:
"Concepts of Purity in the Bible" (JSB pp. 2041-2047)

Milgrom, Jacob. "Israel's Sanctuary: The Priestly Picture of Dorian Gray." Reprint of Revue Biblique, 82:74-84

Class lecture:

Transcript
html
Audio Video

Resources:

Midterm Examination Review Sheet [text]

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