Geography in Early Judaism and Christianity

This insightful work examines the Book of Jubilees and its geographical implications in early religious thought, highlighting its influence on Christian traditions.

In Geography in Early Judaism and Christianity, James M. Scott delves into the Book of Jubilees, an important Old Testament pseudepigraphon. This work presents the revelation of an angel to Moses, who announces the expectation of a messiah from Judah. Scott's exploration is interdisciplinary, utilizing detailed analyses of primary sources that are often overlooked by New Testament scholars. He sheds light on the geographical conceptions of ancient times, providing a fresh perspective on how these ideas influenced early religious thought.

The author traces the appropriation of the Book of Jubilees in early Christian literature, extending from the New Testament to figures like Hippolytus. A significant focus is placed on Jubilees 8–9, which expands upon the Table of Nations found in Genesis 10. Through this examination, Scott uncovers how the geographical elements within Jubilees relate to both Old and New Testament traditions, offering new insights into the Christian understanding of annunciation and messianic expectations.

By addressing the often-neglected topic of ancient geography, Geography in Early Judaism and Christianity enriches our understanding of the cultural and theological context of early Jewish and Christian communities. Scott's meticulous research not only contributes to biblical scholarship but also invites readers to reconsider the significance of geographical awareness in shaping religious narratives.