The Politics of Genealogies in Second Temple Times

Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at 8 pm Eastern via Zoom

The Politics of Genealogies in Second Temple Times

Deirdre N. Fulton, Baylor University

Genealogies are a prominent feature in biblical literature, particularly in the Torah as well as sacred literature from the postexilic period, namely the books of Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah. This interest in including genealogies within the biblical texts serves many different purposes, including creating identity, making explicit family connections, enhancing one’s own pedigree, and asserting specific claims to a territory, position or a group of people.

This lecture surveys biblical genealogies, specifically royal and non-royal genealogies in Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah. The presenter will discuss the setting and structure of specific genealogies and place them within the broader Ancient Near Eastern cultural framework.

For questions or to request accommodations contact:

Donald O Kane