A Life of Psalms in Jewish Late Antiquity

Exploring the profound impact of the Psalter, A Life of Psalms in Jewish Late Antiquity reveals how ancient Jews engaged with this cherished text.

The Bible significantly influenced various facets of Jewish life in the ancient world, from communal activities like attending synagogue to personal moments such as drinking water or uttering last words. Among the texts of the Hebrew Bible, none held greater significance than the Psalter, which was deeply cherished and widely revered. A Life of Psalms in Jewish Late Antiquity explores this profound relationship between the Psalms and the daily lives of late ancient Jews.

In this insightful work, A. J. Berkovitz delves into the ways late ancient Jews encountered the Psalms, examining their engagement with this pivotal text. He poses essential questions regarding the interactions of these communities with the Psalter, investigating how they produced meaning from it. By reconstructing diverse religious practices associated with the Psalms, such as reading, interpreting, and singing, Berkovitz reveals the multifaceted role the Psalter played in spiritual life.

This book not only sheds light on the historical context of late ancient Judaism but also contributes to broader discussions in ancient Jewish studies, biblical reception, book history, and the history of reading. Through a careful examination of practices like liturgical singing and magical invocation, A Life of Psalms in Jewish Late Antiquity highlights the enduring significance of the Psalter in shaping Jewish identity and spirituality during this pivotal era.