narrative agenda
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The Two Narratives of Vayikra
Rabbi Dr. Avraham Walfishתאריך פרסום: תשע"ב | |
Unlike the other four books of the Humash, Vayikra is devoted exclusively to commandments and laws. In the entire book there are only two brief narratives: the death of Nadav and Avihu in chapter 10 and the execution of the blasphemer in chapter 24. Although these two narratives seem to be unrelated, a close reading will reveal how they are thematically related, and explicate their pivotal role in developing the ideas and values of the book of Vayikra.
But WHY didn't Ahab kill Ben-Haddad?
Rabbi Gad Dishiתאריך פרסום: תשע"ג | | Hour and 5 minutes
Why is Chapter 20 of Melakhim located where it is? It appears to be a battle narrative that is out of place with the surrounding chapters. And why is there such an emphasis on Ahav building up Yeriho (Jericho)? Why is God displeased by the end of the story in Chapter 20?
Rabbi Gad Dishi brings the perakim to life through an interdisciplinary approach. Literary and linguistic tools, Ancient Near East studies, and archeological findings all enhance our understanding of Tanakh and of the important theological message within. Linguistic and thematic parallels to other parts of Tanakh and to other texts call into question whether these stories are meant to be read as battle narratives -or whether they are a different genre: a satirical polemic with an important message.The Story of Avraham's Servant
Rabbi Chanoch Waxman | 35 minutesThe search for a wife for Yitzchak highlights the importance of finding key aspects of Abraham's personality in Rivka. But the narrative also contains repetition and seemingly extraneous details—why? There is an intricate interplay among the structure, content, and subtext (or agenda). This story is a key part of the "forefather" stories, and foreshadows nationhood issues for future generations.