vocabulary of desire, A
Book Description
In A Vocabulary of Desire, Laura Suzanne Lieber unveils a fascinating exploration of how ancient Jewish poets transformed one of scripture's most enigmatic texts into vibrant liturgical expression. This scholarly yet accessible work examines the creative interpretations of the Song of Songs by Jewish liturgical poets during Late Antiquity, spanning the fourth through seventh centuries.
Lieber demonstrates how these ancient poets didn't simply recite the biblical text, but boldly reimagined and rewrote it, creating rich poetic cycles that brought new dimensions to the original work. Through careful analysis of these liturgical poems, she reveals the dynamic spiritual and intellectual creativity that flourished in ancient synagogues during this pivotal period.
The book offers readers a unique window into how sacred texts can inspire continuous reinterpretation and artistic expression across generations. Lieber's approach makes this complex material accessible to anyone interested in understanding how spiritual communities have historically engaged with mystical literature.
Structured in two complementary sections, the work first establishes the cultural landscape of Late Antiquity, then presents detailed examinations of complete poetic cycles with newly edited Hebrew texts and original English translations. This comprehensive study illuminates not only the interpretive traditions surrounding the Song of Songs, but also the broader creative spirit that animated Jewish liturgical poetry during a formative era of religious development.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Long (> 400 pages) (~12 hours)
📄 Length: 450 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Hoheslied
- ✓ Explore Piyutim
- ✓ Explore Liturgy
- ✓ Explore Textual Criticism
- ✓ Explore Criticism, interpretation
- ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- ✓ Explore Pijut
- ✓ Explore Texts
