The Myth of the Twelve Tribes of Israel: New Identities Across Time and Space

The Myth of the Twelve Tribes of Israel is the first study to treat the history of claims to an Israelite identity as an ongoing historical phenomenon from biblical times to the present, shedding new light on how the structure of the twelve tribes tradition enables the creation of different visions of Israel and generates new questions about its enduring power and changing shape.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 298 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Myth of the Twelve Tribes of Israel is a groundbreaking exploration of the historical claims to an Israelite identity, spanning from biblical times to the present. In his book, Andrew Tobolowsky takes a unique approach by treating the Hebrew Bible's accounts of Israel as part of a broader effort to construct an Israelite history, rather than simply serving as a source for later legends. By adopting a long-term comparative perspective, Tobolowsky sheds new light on the structure of the twelve tribes tradition and its ability to generate diverse visions of Israel. He also raises thought-provoking questions about the enduring power of this myth, the reasons behind its popularity, and how it has evolved over time. Furthermore, Tobolowsky's analysis of the changing shape of Israel itself offers valuable insights into the individuals and groups who claimed it throughout history. This comprehensive study provides a fresh perspective on the complex and evolving narrative of Israelite identity, challenging traditional interpretations and opening up new avenues for understanding the past.

The Myth of the Twelve Tribes of Israel is a groundbreaking exploration of the historical claims to an Israelite identity, spanning from biblical times to the present. In his book, Andrew Tobolowsky takes a unique approach by treating the Hebrew Bible's accounts of Israel as part of a broader effort to construct an Israelite history, rather than simply serving as a source for later legends. By adopting a long-term comparative perspective, Tobolowsky sheds new light on the structure of the twelve tribes tradition and its ability to generate diverse visions of Israel. He also raises thought-provoking questions about the enduring power of this myth, the reasons behind its popularity, and how it has evolved over time. Furthermore, Tobolowsky's analysis of the changing shape of Israel itself offers valuable insights into the individuals and groups who claimed it throughout history. This comprehensive study provides a fresh perspective on the complex and evolving narrative of Israelite identity, challenging traditional interpretations and opening up new avenues for understanding the past.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009094092