Language:
English
Year of publication:
2021
Titel der Quelle:
Journal for the Study of the Old Testament
Angaben zur Quelle:
46,2 (2021) 193-205
Keywords:
Bible. Criticism, Textual
;
Bible Numerical division
;
Bible Titles of books
;
Characters and characteristics in the Bible
Abstract:
Scrutiny of the traditional textual divisions of the Hebrew version of the book of Esther—the sedarim, the Hebrew paragraphs and the Latin chapters – throws light on whom some ancient readers thought was the main character (protagonist) of the book. The sedarim appear to favour Mordecai’s role over Esther’s in the events narrated, whereas the positioning of the Hebrew paragraph breaks apportions attention more evenly between Esther and Mordecai, who each sought the welfare of the Jewish people. The chapter divisions show an interest in all three leading characters namely, Esther, Mordecai and Ahasuerus. In terms of assigned titles, the book was given the alternate names of Esther and Ahasuerus. It is plain, therefore, that early readers did not come to a settled conclusion as to who is the main character; however, it is clear that the role of Ahasuerus cannot be ignored and that the Persian king must be a candidate for the main character of the book.
DOI:
10.1177/03090892211032243
URL:
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