Archaeology and the Utopian Temple of Ezekiel

Sunday, September 11, 2022

Archaeology and the Utopian Temple of Ezekiel  

Stephen Cook

Interaction with old and new archaeological discoveries is indispensable in understanding the utopian temple of Ezekiel 40–48. Numerous problems in interpreting the prophet’s vision of an ideal sanctuary complex trenchantly elude understanding, apart from archaeology’s mine of evidence. Included among the sites and finds especially helpful in elucidating Ezekiel’s intricate symbolic design are: Sumerian cylinder seals; the Mari Investiture Panel; finds at Khirbet Qeiyafa, including temple models; the Ain Dara temple; ivories from Arslan Tash; the Tell Tayinat temples; the Arad temple, and; the Motza temple.

This talk will highlight selected examples of the use of this evidence in addressing key problems and interpretive issues in the study of Ezekiel’s utopian complex. After interaction with ancient finds, the formidable temple complex of Ezekiel emerges as a masterwork of symbolic architectonic design.

Stephen Cook is Professor of Old Testament Language and Literature at the Virginia Theological Seminary

This event will be held at the Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, VA

The luncheon begins at 2:00 PM; the lecture begins at 3:00 PM.

For questions or to request accommodations contact:

Donald Kane