Egypt as a Monster in the Book of Ezekiel: 76 (Forschungen zum Alten Testament 2. Reihe) - Softcover

Marzouk, Safwat

Softcover

ISBN 10: 3161532457 ISBN 13: 9783161532450

Publisher: JCB Mohr (Paul Siebeck), 2015

Synopsis

Appealing to Monster Theory and the ancient Near Eastern motif of "Chaoskampf," Safwat Marzouk argues that the paradoxical character of the category of the monster is what prompts the portrayal of Egypt as a monster in the book of Ezekiel. While on the surface the monster seems to embody utter difference, underlying its otherness there is a disturbing sameness. Though the monster may be defeated and its body dismembered, it is never completely annihilated. Egypt is portrayed as a monster in the book of Ezekiel because Egypt represents the threat of religious assimilation. Although initially the monstrosity of Egypt is constructed because of the shared elements of identity between Egypt and Israel, the prophet flips this imagery of monster in order to embody Egypt as a monstrous Other. In a combat myth, YHWH defeats the monster and dismembers its body. Despite its near annihilation, Egypt, in Ezekiel's rhetoric, is not entirely obliterated. Rather, it is kept at bay, hovering at the periphery, questioning Israel's identity.

About this edition

• Publisher: JCB Mohr (Paul Siebeck)
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 3161532457
• ISBN 13: 9783161532450
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 305