Authority vs Power
“The classic statement of distinction between authority and power was developed by Weber. In the words of M. G. Smith, “Authority is, in the abstract, the right to make a particular decision and to command obedience…Power…is the ability to act effectively on persons or things, to make or secure favorable decisions which are not of right allocated to the individuals or their roles.” ——— Naomi Steinberg. “Israelite Tricksters, their Analogues and Cross-Cultural Study.” Semeia No 42, 1988, p 1-13
What Does David Mean by “I am Weak”?
In 2 Samuel 3, in the story of Joab killing Abner, the narrator makes a point of relating that David was not involved with this assassination. David further exculpates himself saying:
- 3:39 “And today I am weak, even though
Study Oct 17 – Michal and Paltiel
When Michal, David’s wife, rescued him from Saul, David fled, leaving her behind (1 Sam 19:12). Saul gave her as wife to Paltiel (1 Sam 25:44). After the death of Saul, David demanded his wife back. When they took Michal from Paltiel, “her husband went with her, weeping as he went.” (2 Sam 3:13-16). Such a poignant story. We wonder if David ever loved anyone.
Welcome to StudyWithPenina
I teach classes at Congregation Eitz Chayim (1st and 3rd Weds, 7:30-9:00 pm). All are welcome: prior text study or knowledge of Hebrew is not necessary. Study is interfaith and gender sensitive. We often share snacks and a bottle of wine. I also lead occasional workshops for Keshet and Nehirim. Classes and workshops I have delivered are here.
Interesting insight into how Biblical Archeology is done
The site is Gath. Video Interview with Tell es-Safi/Gath’s Aren Maeir – Biblical Archaeology Society.
Study of II Samuel is Coming Oct 3
Stay tuned as we pick up our study of King David and all the assorted siblings, soldiers, children, wives and mothers. On October 3rd join us for II Samuel, Chapter 1 & 2. Read David’s poignant lament over the deaths of Jonathan and Saul, and learn about his first days as King over Judah. “David’s story has a way of shifting out from under us. It is a story that refuses to be tamed, secured, or neatly ordered.” -Gunn and Fewell: Narrative in the Hebrew Bible.
Good discussion topic
King David amongst the Philistines, or how to trick your way into power when you don’t have authority. Note: men in the bible do this along with women.
Wednesday July 18 2011 Ruth starting with Ch 2
We will study Ruth in detail. We will read through the text and consider issues of identity (both loss and change), redemption, affliction by YHWH, the role of women in transforming society, love between women, Naomi as a Jobian figure, the significance of the book of Ruth in the biblical narrative, the place of both Ruth and Boaz in the genealogy of King David.
Study with Penina – Ruth – Wednesday July 11
We will study Ruth in detail in two classes. We will read through the text and consider issues of identity (both loss and change), redemption, affliction by YHWH, the role of women in transforming society, love between women, Naomi as a Jobian figure, the significance of the book of Ruth in the biblical narrative, the place of both Ruth and Boaz in the genealogy of King David.
Wednesday, June 20 Rebecca
We will study Rebecca and consider to what extent she is (or is not) shown in the text to be much like Abraham. We did a short study at Shavuot; this will be more intensive.