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- Title
Rereading 1 Kings 17:21 in Light of Ancient Medical Texts.
- Authors
DAVIS, ANDREW R.
- Abstract
This article proposes a new reading of the e verb ויַּתִמְדֵֹד in 1 Kgs 17:21 which, I argue, is not from מדד ("to measure") but from מיד ("to shake"). I begin by showing that the current understanding of the verb from מדד , which in this verse is usually translated "to stretch," is problematic. I suggest that the root מיד , which occurs in Hab 3:6, offers a viable alternative to this problematic reading. Finally, comparing this action to Mesopotamian protocols for diagnosing comas, I propose that Elijah shakes himself over the comatose boy in order to determine his condition. This diagnosis then informs Elijah's prayer for YHWH to return the boy's נפש , which is exactly what happens in the next verse. In this reading, Elijah's action is neither therapeutic nor magical; it is diagnostic and a necessary step that enables Elijah to formulate a prayer that is specific to the boy's predicament. His revival is not achieved through Elijah's self-measurement or sympathetic magic; rather it is the result of the prophetic word, which has the power to move YHWH to action.
- Subjects
ANCIENT medicine; MESOPOTAMIAN antiquities; ELIJAH (Biblical prophet); BIBLE. Kings, 1st; ZAREPHATH (Extinct city)
- Publication
Journal of Biblical Literature, 2016, Vol 135, Issue 3, p465
- ISSN
0021-9231
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.15699/jbl.1353.2016.3065