Unusual way of conveying a prophecy in the Bible
Unusual way of conveying a prophecy in the Bible

Author(s): Tsotne CHKHEIDZE
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion
Published by: Editura Doxologia
Keywords: Symbol; Symbolic actions; Prophecy; Prophetic deed; Old Testament;
Summary/Abstract: The Bible describes unusual and strange prophetic actions, which are often referred to as Symbolic Actions/Acts. Symbolism was an integral part of those actions as the message was depicted in a prophetic deed and then disclosed to its spectators. Bible scholars give them a separate place in the discussion of prophetic ministry. Symbolic actions were analyzed from many angles and discussed from various points of view. In the first stage, the essence of symbolic actions was considered from a literary point of view i.e. based on the form criticism. Later it was considered as a form of rhetorical nonverbal communication. Some researchers analyzed the mentioned actions in a philosophical context and even as sorcery. So, there are expressed diverse opinions about how to refer to the mentioned actions and which biblical episodes should be considered symbolic actions of the prophets. In addition to Symbolic Actions/Acts or Prophetic Acts, there are established several terms related to these acts: Street Theatre, Prophetic Drama, Demonstration Action, and Act/Deed of Power. The present article discusses the distinctive features of biblical symbolic action and its essence based on Church Fathers’ exegesis and explores instances of the mentioned phenomenon. Since the most symbolic acts are described in the Old Testament, the discussion will center around them. This article is based on doctoral research conducted at a department of Biblical studies at Tbilisi Theological Academy and Seminary.

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