this issue
next article in this issue

Document Details :

Title: The Relevance of Mandaean Literature to the Study of Near Eastern Religions
Author(s): RUDOLPH, K.
Journal: ARAM Periodical
Volume: 16    Date: 2004   
Pages: 1-12
DOI: 10.2143/ARAM.16.0.504668

Abstract :
The author discusses briefly the change in the state of our knowledge of the singular and original community of Mandaeans, its religion and traditions. This culture, which cannot be placed under the tag of 'Christian', 'Jew', 'Hindu' nor 'Muslim', has spread over the world and where confronted with laity, as they, even in their Near Eastern homelands, had to take over tasks formerly done by priests (tarmidi). Their confrontation with Western culture made them use the means of newsletters and the use of internet for the spread of their 'Bible', the Ginza ('Treasure') or siddra rabba ('great book') in order to discuss their community and religious problems.

Download article