Paul’s Mosaic Ascent : An Interpretation of 2 Corinthians 12.7–9

Journal article

Litwa, Matthew. (2011). Paul’s Mosaic Ascent : An Interpretation of 2 Corinthians 12.7–9. New Testament Studies. 57(2), pp. 238-257. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0028688510000342
AuthorsLitwa, Matthew
Abstract

This essay offers a reading of 2 Cor 12.7–9 in light of a rabbinic story of Moses' ascent to heaven (b. Šabb. 88b-89a). After an exploration of Moses in 2 Corinthians the author argues that vv. 7–9, like vv. 2–4, constitute an ascent report (vv. 2–4). This ascent report, it is maintained, is structurally parallel to Moses' heavenly ascent in b. Šabb. 88b-89a. Early traditions of Moses' ascent to heaven and dominance over angels suggest that Paul knew a form of the Mosaic ascent, and parodied it to highlight his weakness and paradoxical authority in vv. 7–9.

KeywordsMoses; 2 Cor 12.7–9; heavenly ascent; Paul and Rabbinic literature ; angel of Satan; parody
Year01 Jan 2011
JournalNew Testament Studies
Journal citation57 (2), pp. 238-257
PublisherCambridge University Press
ISSN0028-6885
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1017/S0028688510000342
Web address (URL)https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/new-testament-studies/article/pauls-mosaic-ascent-an-interpretation-of-2-corinthians-1279/716901D9C9B9A2B051FA90E688EB321F
Research or scholarlyResearch
Page range238-257
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Output statusPublished
Publication dates
Online04 Mar 2011
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Deposited03 May 2024
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Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2011

Place of publicationUnited Kingdom
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