The Origins of the Nation Israel: Biblical, Historical, and Archaeological Data
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Part of the series Zionism: Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond — Expanding the Conversation
With Dr. Benjamin D. Sommer, Professor of Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages, JTS
What can we learn from the Bible’s narratives about the emergence of the nation Israel? Some streams insist on the literal infallibility of biblical history, while others assert that the Jews are not indigenous to Canaan/Israel/Palestine.
Considering biblical texts and archaeological evidence, this session examines the origin of the Israelites as an ethnic and political unit. How does the debate on biblical authority resonate both within and outside academic circles?
This session is sponsored by Yale Asbell, JTS Trustee.
About the Series
What does it mean to be a Zionist in 21st-century North America? Expanding on conversations from our two-day convening “Zionism: Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond,” this webinar series will explore this and other questions, presenting significant insights and debate and enhancing the context that is informing contemporary issues. JTS faculty will highlight the political, religious, and philosophical perspectives that shape the current landscape for Jews in North America in relationship with Israel.
