The Invention of An Ancestor "Abraham"
This course delves into the biblical story of Abraham (Genesis 11:27-25:31) and aims to reconstruct the socio-historical contexts in which various texts about Judaism's founding ancestor were created. Drawing on ongoing research, the course will explore why Abraham became the quintessential ancestor of the three monotheistic religions.
The narratives in Genesis portray him as an ecumenical figure whose significance has been interpreted differently over time and according to diverse religious sensibilities. This course will analyze these stories to understand the multifaceted legacy of Abraham and his enduring influence on monotheistic traditions.