The Evil Inclination in Early Judaism and Christianity

This book explores the Jewish concept of the evil inclination and its impact on early Christian thought, revealing significant cultural exchanges.

This insightful work delves into the intricate relationship between early Judaism and early Christianity, with a particular focus on the Jewish concept of the evil inclination. The Evil Inclination in Early Judaism and Christianity examines how this notion evolved within its cultural framework and its significance in both religious traditions. The book highlights the importance of the Evil Inclination in rabbinic Judaism, revealing its connections to similar ideas in ancient Christianity and the broader late antique context.

The origins and interpretations of the evil inclination remain somewhat elusive, yet this volume meticulously traces its historical development within Judaism. It assesses how this concept influenced the nascent Christian understanding of sin, thereby illuminating the intellectual exchanges that took place between these two faiths during classical Antiquity. The chapters draw from a diverse array of sources, including biblical texts, ancient versions, Qumran literature, Pseudepigrapha, Apocrypha, Targums, and both rabbinic and patristic writings.

By exploring the evolution of the evil inclination, The Evil Inclination in Early Judaism and Christianity enhances our comprehension of the cultural and religious dynamics that shaped early Jewish and Christian thought. This book is an essential resource for those interested in the intersections of these two traditions and the broader implications for understanding sin and morality in their historical contexts.