The Biblical Prophets and their Social World
Victor H. Matthews, PhD - Dean of the College of Humanities and Public Affairs and Professor of Religious Studies at Missouri State University
Prophets serve a common purpose in ancient Israel – to remind the people of their obligation to the covenant with YHWH and in the process condemn abuse of worship practices and violations of social justice. In order to obtain a fuller understanding of the message of individual prophets, we must examine the historical and social context in which they lived and about which they spoke. Further reflection is also required on their use of public display, their capturing of significant space to deliver their message, and their references to collective memory.
This event is cosponsored by the Department of Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern Studies and the Program in Religious Studies.