Genres of Rewriting in Second Temple Judaism: Scribal Composition and Transmission

Molly Zahn's book investigates how early Jewish scribes rewrote their authoritative traditions, using genre as a tool to compare and contrast different cases. It demonstrates that rewriting was a pervasive textual strategy in the Second Temple period, contributing to a powerful new model of early Jewish textuality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In her groundbreaking book, "Rewriting Early Jewish Texts," Molly Zahn delves into the intricate process by which early Jewish scribes reinterpreted and rewrote their authoritative traditions as they transmitted them. This transformative process encompassed a wide range of alterations, from minor edits made during the copying process to entirely new compositions built upon earlier works. Zahn's remarkable achievement is to provide a comprehensive mapping of manuscripts and translations of biblical books, known as parabiblical compositions, as well as the sectarian literature from Qumran, placing them in relation to one another. Through the innovative use of genre as a framework, Zahn introduces a fresh set of terms for discussing rewriting, allowing for a nuanced comparison and contrast of different cases.

While rewriting has traditionally been perceived as a means of biblical interpretation, Zahn expands our understanding by demonstrating that rewriting was a pervasive textual strategy during the Second Temple period. Her book makes a significant contribution to developing a powerful new model of early Jewish textuality, shedding light on the rich and diverse cultural backdrop that gave rise to both rabbinic Judaism and early Christianity. By meticulously analyzing the textual variations and reinterpretations, Zahn offers a fresh perspective on the evolution of these religious traditions and their complex interrelationships.

Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Zahn has provided scholars with a valuable tool for understanding the complex processes of textual transmission and rewriting in the ancient world. "Rewriting Early Jewish Texts" is a groundbreaking work that will undoubtedly inspire further research and deepen our understanding of the rich tapestry of early Jewish culture and religion.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108725750
Edition number: New ed