Presenter(s): Dimitra Fellman
Faculty Mentor(s): Kristen Seaman
Oral Session 2 S
Scholars often use modern constructs of “race” and “ethnicity” to interpret ancient texts about life in antiquity. Both terms connote a shared lineage through which traits, physical or cultural, are passed, and imply that those born outside a particular lineage cannot claim to be a part of it. However, an analysis of works by ancient Jewish authors — both historical and philosophical — reveals that Jewish identity was not a birthright, but cultivated through proper practice of Jewish laws. These authors reveal that the correct upholding of Jewish laws could be achieved by anyone, and encouraged mechanisms that promoted Jewish practices amongst non-Jews. The lack of racial or ethnic exclusivity in ancient Jewish practice serves as an example of the homogeneous and fluid environment of the ancient Mediterranean and provides a more accurate lens through which modern scholars should attempt to understand antiquity.