this issue
previous article in this issuenext article in this issue

Document Details :

Title: Gli 'Anziani' in Giuda
Author(s): BETTENZOLI, Giuseppe
Journal: Biblica
Volume: 64    Issue: 2   Date: 1983   
Pages: 211-224
DOI: 10.2143/BIB.64.2.3220792

Abstract :
Political power in Juda is held originally by the 'Elders' and is structured not by tribes but by civic territories. The individual city-states are governed by a council of Elders having both administrative and religious jurisdictions. By the end of the 12th century, they form themselves into a confederation to oppose the invasion of the Amalicites. The Elders of Juda also inspire the introduction of the monarchy: they elect King David for reasons of political opportunity and intend to conserve a level of control over the monarchy. After political centralization under Solomon and his successors, the Elders of the individual cities are left only with judicial powers in cases of ordinary administration.

Download article