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Document Details : Title: Wolves and Tribes Subtitle: Amorite and Arab Parallels to Jacob's Blessing to Benjamin Author(s): WASSERMAN, Nathan , BLOCH, Yigal Journal: Biblica Volume: 105 Issue: 3 Date: 2024 Pages: 315-329 DOI: 10.2143/BIB.105.3.3293716 Abstract : This article discusses an unusual metaphor in Gen 49,27 comparing the tribe of Benjamin to a wolf. The wolf metaphor is unusual, because this beast of prey is normally associated with negative qualities. Using comparative evidence from the Mari letters and Arab sources, the article suggests that a positive image of the wolf reflects a nomadic society in which attacks of individual tribes on their neighbors provided a legitimate source of revenue. This insight is further used to compare the saying addressed to Benjamin with other sayings in Jacob’s blessing to his sons in Gen 49,1-27. |
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