Battle of The Gods: The Myths of Baal Vs. The God of Israel
with Dr. Diane M. Sharon
Mondays, October 26, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
12:00 –1:30 PM
In Canaanite myth, Baal is characterized as Rider of the Clouds, Ruler of the Storm, Subduer of the Sea and Lord of Fertility. While the seat of Baal worship was destroyed in 1200 BCE, the power of its archaic traditions captivated Israelites, from farmers and herdsmen to transgressive priests and leaders, luring them to alien worship and seducing Israel into abandoning the covenant at Sinai. Over time, the language, imagery and rituals associated with Baal have come also to suffuse the worship of Israel's God.
This semester we examine how the struggle between Baal and Yahweh plays out throughout the biblical story of ancient Israel from the Book of Judges through the prophets and the psalms, and how its traces mark our Jewish lives today.
The Leon Finley Course in Jewish Studies
The Skirball Academy is currently offering classes virtually (over Zoom) for fall 2020.
212.507.9580 | EmanuelStreickerNYC.org