Memory and identity in ancient Judaism and early Christianity
Book Description
This scholarly exploration delves into the profound ways ancient communities shaped their spiritual identities through the lens of collective memory. Drawing on cutting-edge memory theory, particularly Schwartz's influential model, this work examines how Jewish and early Christian communities navigated the complex relationship between historical events and their commemorative retelling.
The book addresses fundamental questions that resonate with anyone seeking to understand how spiritual communities form and sustain themselves. How do we distinguish between what actually happened and how communities choose to remember those events? What role does shared memory play in creating lasting spiritual identity, especially during times of crisis and upheaval? How do communities strategically frame their stories to strengthen bonds and convey deeper truths?
Through carefully selected case studies spanning ancient Jewish and early Christian history, contributing scholars demonstrate how these communities drew upon their past to forge resilient identities. The analysis reveals sophisticated strategies of storytelling and memory-making that helped these groups maintain cohesion and purpose across generations.
For readers interested in understanding how spiritual communities develop their sense of self and belonging, this volume offers valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between memory, narrative, and identity formation. The theoretical framework provides tools for examining how any community uses its past to navigate present challenges and future aspirations.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~10 hours)
📄 Length: 361 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Jews
- ✓ Explore Church history
- ✓ Explore Judaism
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Jews, identity
- ✓ Explore Group identity
- ✓ Explore Collective memory
- ✓ Explore Judaism, history, post-exilic period, 586 b.c.-210 a.d.
