Between Model and Metaphor: The Image of the Epidemic in 2 Kings 24 and 2 Chronicles 21 Cover Image

Descrierea epidemiei din 2 Reg. 24 și 2 Paral. 21: între model și metaforă
Between Model and Metaphor: The Image of the Epidemic in 2 Kings 24 and 2 Chronicles 21

Author(s): Ioan Ștefan Haplea
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, History, Language and Literature Studies, Local History / Microhistory, Theology and Religion, Religion and science , Biblical studies, Translation Studies
Published by: Editura Universităţii »Alexandru Ioan Cuza« din Iaşi
Keywords: history of medicine; epidemiology; biblical medicine;

Summary/Abstract: Recent global epidemiological events have rephrased the intricate and sometimes strained connection between conduct and religious values. The biblical text refers to prominent instances of epidemics and recommends preventive and palliative measures. We have analysed the description of a contagious disease outbreak of massive scale, described in 2 Kings 24 and 2 Chron. 21. We have investigated the patterns of physical and medical causation implied by the text, the role of disease names, metaphors and models, and the relationship between the royal power and public health in biblical times. Finally, we conjectured on the effect that these texts, translated into Romanian during the 17th century (the 1688 Bible), might have had on the attitudes, perceptions and outcomes of pestilence outbreaks during early 18th century, in Romanian territories.

  • Issue Year: 10/2021
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 93-103
  • Page Count: 11
  • Language: Romanian