Memory and Covenant

By :  Library of the Jewish Theological Seminary Posted On Feb 3, 2014 / 5774 | Author Conversations: Between the Lines
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Memory and Covenant: The Role of Israel’s and God’s Memory in Sustaining the Deuteronomic and Priestly Covenants combines a close reading of texts in the Deuteronomic, Priestly, and Holiness traditions with analysis of ritual and scrutiny of the different terminology regarding memory that is used in each tradition. Dr. Ellman demonstrates that an understanding of the concept of memory is critical to understanding the overall cosmologies, theologies, and religious programs of these distinct traditions: all three regard it as a vital element of religious practice and as the principal instrument of covenant fidelity— but in very different ways.

Barat Ellman‘s Memory and Covenant offers a superb analysis of key differences between Priestly and Deuteronomic traditions in the Pentateuch. Focusing on the understanding and role of memory in each tradition, she helps make sense of the place of ritual, intellect, and sense perception in each. Ellman’s work will lead readers to a deeper understanding of biblical religions and theologies in their complexity and diversity.”  — Dr. David Kraemer, Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian and Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics, JTS