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Paul’s Mosaic Ascent : An Interpretation of 2 Corinthians 12.7–9
Litwa, Matthew
Litwa, Matthew
Author
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.
Keywords
Moses, 2 Cor 12.7–9, heavenly ascent, Paul and Rabbinic literature, angel of Satan, parody
Date
2011
Type
Journal article
Journal
Book
Volume
57
Issue
2
Page Range
238-257
Article Number
ACU Department
Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry
Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
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Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2011