Between Tradition and Innovation. Interpretation of the Book of Numbers in Literary and Theological Respect

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Christian Frevel
• Subject Area: Roman Catholic Theology
• Term: from 2017 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 385072438

The project focuses on the key role of the book of Numbers in terms of literary history, narratology, and theology. It also approaches the role of the book of numbers in the composition of the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy) and the Hexateuch (Genesis-Joshua). The project aims at highlighting the thematic features of the book (the twelve-tribe-system, rituals, hierarchical cultic order, blessing of Israel as a people, land conception in East Jordan, inheritance law of daughters, dealing with strangers, etc.) within the literary process of the fourth century B.C.E. The book is understood as an interpretation of given texts and legal material (inner biblical interpretation), and likewise as a struggle for the collective 'Israel' in the late postexilic period. The hypothesis strengthens the view, that the book has a particular function in the identity-building processes by approaching tradition. The innovative position is supported by two flanking arguments: As a result of placing the constitution (fictitiously) outside the land, the book provides a common reference point for the rivaling groups in the 'twelve-tribe-all-Israel'. Within this concept the land is so broadly defined that groups outside the Persian province of Yehûd (particular the Transjordan people) can also be included into the 'twelve-tribe-all-Israel'. For those living in exile in Babylonia or Egypt, the Torah provides a constitutive basis for collective Israel identity. The project combines the preparatory work of the applicant with a comprehensive thesis and prepares the commentary of the book Numeri conceptually.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants