Power and Emotion in Ancient Judaism: Community and Identity in Formation

In this book, Ari Mermelstein examines the mutually-reinforcing relationship between power and emotion in ancient Judaism, arguing that emotional communities that felt Jewish would succeed in neutralizing the power wielded over them by others and restore their power to acculturate, maintain their Jewish identity, and achieve redemption.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In his book, Ari Mermelstein delves into the intricate interplay between power and emotion in ancient Judaism. Ancient Jewish writers, both in Palestine and the diaspora, argued that Jewish identity encompasses not just allegiance to God and adherence to commandments but also the cultivation of specific emotional norms. These emotional guidelines were shaped by and in response to the power networks that threatened Jews' sense of agency, including God, the foreign empire, and other Jewish groups. These writers believed that emotional communities that embraced Jewish values could neutralize the power exerted over them by others, and, depending on the circumstances, restore their power to acculturate, maintain their Jewish identity, and seek redemption.

This book makes a significant contribution to the study of emotions in history by asserting that power relations form the foundation for historical shifts in the discourse surrounding emotions. Mermelstein's exploration of the complex relationship between power and emotion in ancient Judaism offers valuable insights into the dynamics of emotional communities and their role in shaping historical outcomes.

Through his meticulous analysis of ancient texts and historical contexts, Mermelstein demonstrates how power dynamics influenced the development and expression of emotions in Jewish society. He highlights the ways in which emotional norms were used as tools to assert authority, maintain social order, and resist external oppression. At the same time, he explores how emotions were used by individuals and communities to navigate the complexities of power relations and seek empowerment and self-determination.

One of the key themes of Mermelstein's book is the concept of emotional communities. He argues that emotional communities, defined by shared values, beliefs, and practices, played a crucial role in shaping the emotional landscape of ancient Judaism. These communities provided a sense of belonging, identity, and protection against external threats, allowing individuals to navigate the complexities of power relations and assert their agency.

Mermelstein also examines the ways in which emotional communities were influenced by power networks. He shows how the power of God, the foreign empire, and other Jewish groups shaped the emotional norms and practices of Jewish communities. For example, he discusses how the fear of persecution and the desire for self-preservation influenced the development of emotional communities that emphasized loyalty, obedience, and submission.

However, Mermelstein also highlights the limitations of emotional communities in the face of power. He argues that emotional communities could be manipulated and exploited by those in power, leading to the reinforcement of existing power structures and the marginalization of those who did not conform to the dominant norms. This highlights the complex and often contradictory nature of power relations in ancient Judaism and the challenges faced by individuals and communities in navigating them.

Another important aspect of Mermelstein's book is its exploration of the historical changes in emotion discourse. He shows how the relationship between power and emotion evolved over time, as different historical contexts and social movements influenced the way emotions were expressed and understood. For example, he discusses how the rise of Christianity and the emergence of secularism influenced the emotional landscape of Jewish communities, leading to the development of new emotional norms and practices.

In conclusion, Ari Mermelstein's book is a groundbreaking exploration of the mutually-reinforcing relationship between power and emotion in ancient Judaism. Through his meticulous analysis of ancient texts and historical contexts, Mermelstein demonstrates how power dynamics influenced the development and expression of emotions in Jewish society. He highlights the ways in which emotional communities provided a sense of belonging and identity but also the limitations of these communities in the face of power. By examining the historical changes in emotion discourse, Mermelstein sheds light on the complex and evolving nature of power relations in Jewish society and their impact on the emotional lives of individuals and communities. This book is a valuable contribution to the study of emotions in history and will be of interest to scholars and researchers in the fields of Jewish studies, history, and sociology.

Weight: 642g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108831550