Language:
English
Year of publication:
2022
Titel der Quelle:
Journal of Jewish Studies
Angaben zur Quelle:
73,1 (2022) 160-182
Keywords:
Derrida, Jacques
;
Berit milah Philosophy
;
Jewish philosophy 20th century
Abstract:
One of the most remarkable ventures of the French philosopher Jacques Derrida is his unique exploration of the ‘covenant of circumcision’, which transforms the religious commandment and ceremony into a philosophical concept. Beyond the philosophical aspect of Derrida’s treatment of circumcision in his writings, his interest also conveys a particularly thought-provoking biographical element. Derrida addresses the rite of circumcision from his innermost self, rendering his engagement with the subject a combination of analysis, confession and reading. In this article I read Derrida’s interpretive endeavour, deconstruction, as a literary implementation of the concept of circumcision – not only the deconstructive interpretation he has given for circumcision, but his ‘circumcision’ of the word circumcision. I propose the viewing of deconstruction as the spiritual and ethical equivalent of circumcision.
DOI:
10.18647/3527/jjs-2022
URL:
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