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Document Details : Title: The Directionality of Comparison in Ancient Near Eastern and Biblical Studies Author(s): THOMPSON, Shane M. Journal: Bibliotheca Orientalis Volume: 81 Issue: 5-6 Date: 2024 Pages: 372-379 DOI: 10.2143/BIOR.81.5.3295089 Abstract : In this reflection I comment on the current state of comparative work in ancient Near Eastern and biblical scholarship. Based on the work of Giorgio Buccellati, I examine the efficacy of using the biblical text(s) to inform the study of Mesopotamia. Sharing temporal and geographical space, comparison of the two has long been embraced by a subset of biblicists. Assyriologists, however, have been more hesitant to turn to the biblical text(s) to illuminate the study of Mesopotamia. I comment on the many potential risks within the comparative method, acknowledging criteria which I deem important for responsible comparison. Although comparative work is hazardous, it is an important method for the interpretation of ancient societies, especially as it continues to break down the silos which have appeared amongst our disciplines. |
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