Description
Book SynopsisIn exploring the diverse functions of signs outside of the realm of the written word, this book introduces unfamiliar sources and motifs from the formative age of Judaism, including magical and divination texts and new interpretations of legends and midrashim from classical rabbinic literature.
Trade Review"Recommended [for] libraries in general, especially those supporting Jewish studies, [as well as] upper-division undergraduates through researchers/faculty, [and] general readers." * CHOICE *
"In this remarkably concise, yet massively researched, volume, Michael Swartz lays the historical and hermeneutical foundations for a massive revision of the idea of late antique Judaism as an essentially text- and logocentric intellectual tradition. His elegantly written argument will challenge scholars--and, one hopes, their students--for years to come!" -- Martin S. Jaffee,University of Washington
"With gestures to the music of John Cage and the meaning of fashion, Michael Swartz explores the manifold ways that ancient Jews believed God could speak through worldly things: animals and dreams, zodiac and temple, priestly vestments and the flowing of blood. Using such diverse sources as ancient synagogue mosaics and liturgical poetry, Swartz shows with economy and insight that formative Judaism looked well beyond the Torah to find divine intention." -- David Frankfurter,Boston University
Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments 1. Introduction: Outside the Text 2. Myths of Creation 3. The Semiotics of the Priestly Vestments 4. Divination and Its Discontents 5. Bubbling Blood and Rolling Bones 6. Conclusions: The Signifying Creator Notes Index About the Author
