Abstract
According to John Meier, the identity of the historical Jesus was shaped by early Jewish understandings of the prophet Elijah. This article assesses five points of alleged similarity between Jesus and Elijah and draws attention to two neglected distinctions: the distinction between the earthly Elijah and the eschatological one, and the distinction between the formative and interpretative functions of the figure of Elijah. Meier’s construal of the intention and identity of Jesus is put into question. Whereas it is possible to take Jesus’ election of the Twelve as an indication of his intention to play the role of Elijah, the present article argues instead for an Isaianic
background of the key saying Q 22:30b. The role according to which Jesus shaped his identity was that of Isaiah’s anointed prophet, whose task was also to begin the restoration of Israel by appointing those who would soon be “judging” the twelve tribes.
background of the key saying Q 22:30b. The role according to which Jesus shaped his identity was that of Isaiah’s anointed prophet, whose task was also to begin the restoration of Israel by appointing those who would soon be “judging” the twelve tribes.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | The Identity of Jesus: Nordic Voices |
| Editors | Samuel Byrskog, Tom Holmén, Matti Kankaanniemi |
| Publisher | Mohr Siebeck |
| Pages | 70-86 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9783161522048 |
| Publication status | Published - 2014 |
Bibliographical note
The information about affiliations in this record was updated in December 2015.The record was previously connected to the following departments: Centre for Theology and Religious Studies (015017000)
Subject classification (UKÄ)
- Religious Studies
Free keywords
- Elijah
- historical Jesus
- Isaiah
- Messiah
- prophets
- restoration of Israel
- the Twelve