The circumcision of Moses’ son (Ex. 4:24–26). Ancient rite and its Biblical reinterpretation
https://doi.org/10.28995/2658-4158-2024-4-120-131
Abstract
The article attempts to trace the evolution of circumcision as it depicted in the Tanakh, from the narrative of Zipporah circumcising her son (Exodus 4:24–26) to the story of God’s covenant with Abraham (Genesis 17:10–14). Through the analysis of multiple biblical texts and the semantics of the phrase “blood groom,” it is suggested that circumcision, in its original form, was a part of the wedding ceremony, a rite of passage into a new lineage and social status. Being an integral part of the life-cycle rituals of an archaic society, circumcision couldn’t simply be forgotten or entirely replaced by Jewish tradition after the spread and establishment of monotheistic beliefs. Thus, it remained in cultural memory but underwent a reinterpretation, becoming an obligatory ritual for men entering the covenant.
Keywords
About the Author
S. V. Babkina
Russian State University for the Humanities
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Svetlana V. Babkina, Cand. of Sci. (History)
6, Miusskaya Sq., Moscow, 125047
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Review
For citations:
Babkina S.V. The circumcision of Moses’ son (Ex. 4:24–26). Ancient rite and its Biblical reinterpretation. Studia Religiosa Rossica: Russian Journal of Religion. 2024;(4):120-131. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.28995/2658-4158-2024-4-120-131
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