HTS Volume 58, Number 4 (2002)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/11834

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Makrososiale ruimte van die Boek van die Wagte (1 Henog 1-36)
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Venter, P.M. (Pieter Michiel), 1947-
An analysis of the material of the Book of the Watchers (1 Enoch 1-36) indicates a preference for the spatial aspect in these revelation narratives. In an attempt to understand this preference, an investigation is launched into the macro social world of the narratives. Themes in Enoch from literature in the Bible, the Syro-Phoenician world, Pseudo Epolemus, Zenon Papyri, Persia and Greece, are identified. Ptolemean Palestine is also investigated as the context within which an Enochic tradition was formed. Amongst other traditions an opposing Mosaic Judaism and Enochic Judaism are identified. Both take up the challenges of the third century with its Hellenistic onslaught and explosion of knowledge. The Book of the Watchers represents an Enoch tradition, which forms an early trajectory of apocalyptic thinking, and which is being influenced by various traditions such as wisdom literature in its mantic form, cosmological schemes of the world, and mythic traditions.
Teksfunksie en boodskap van Jesaja 49:1-6
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Da Silva, A.A. (Andrew Anthony); Breytenbach, A.P.B. (Andries Petrus Bernardus), 1944-
The purpose of this article is to arrive at legitimate deductions about the textual function and the theological message of Isaiah 49:1-6. This goal is pursued by means of a method consisting of a synchronic analysis, a diachronic analysis, and a reception-critical analysis.
Tenach and Old Testament – the same Bible?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Loader, J.A. (James Alfred), 1945-
This article questions the simplicity with which not only Old Testament specialists, but theologians in general – especially in the Protestant tradition – usually identify the Hebrew text as printed in the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia (and its predecessors) as the “real” Old Testament. The relevant questions are grouped into four clusters: What is meant by “Tenach” and “Old Testament”, what is a canon, is the Jewish Tenach continued in the same way as the Christian Old Testament, what are the theological implications of their dissimilarity and their association? An argument is developed in which it is concluded that there are several conditions under which the Tenach of the Jews and the Old Testament of Christians can not be called the same Bible. Only when the canon is seen as a process as opposed to a list or a book, can a positive answer to the question be given. Several advantages of this approach conclude the discussion.
Belangrikheid van kerkgeskiedenis en kerkreg in die teologiese opleiding en vorming van studente
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Botha, S.J. (Schalk Jacobus), 1936-
The Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk has always been adamant that its ministers should be trained and formed in a theological faculty at a recognized university, where all the disciplines of theology are lectured. At a recent Church synod, the importance of Church History was questioned. In this paper the argument that Church History is not just important in the curriculum of theology, but indeed indispensable, is put forward. As Church Polity forms part of the Department of Church History at the Faculty of Theology (University of Pretoria), it is also included in the argument.
Vroue in die Sinoptiese Evangelies – méér as dekoratiewe karakters
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Dreyer, Yolanda
The aim of the paper is to show that the Synoptic Gospels represent different perspectives on Jesus and gender. From these perspectives Jesus’ narrated vision on the role of the male disciples and the women is described in order to explore some implications of the three visions in Mark, Matthew, and Luke. The focus is on developing a comprehensive philosophy which attests to the full humanity and personhood of women, the equal value of men and women as persons, and the public acknowledgement of their value. The paper demonstrates that gender studies in biblical interpretation can contribute not only to the special interests of women, but also in a broader sense to society as a whole.
Bybelse getuienis oor homoseksualiteit – met ander oë gesien
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Geyser, Piet A.
The aim of this article is to (re)open the discussion of biblical testimony on homosexuality. The discussion focuses on the results of existing exegetical research. The article places the exegesis of the relevant Bible passages within the framework of the types of literature within which the references to same sex behaviour are found. Four categories of texts are usually cited by those who argue against homosexuality, namely: legal texts; narrative passages; lists or catalogues; creation reports. The case for a more careful translation and reading of the relevant texts, is advocated. A hermeneutics of suspicion and an engaged hermeneutics are needed to approach biblical testimony on homosexuality from a perspective of Jesus’ caring for those who have been wounded.
Wat dateer ons? Enkele opmerkings rondom die datering van Bybelse tekste
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Lombaard, Christoffel Johannes Stephanus; Le Roux, J.H. (Jurie Hendrik), 1944-
When a date is ascribed to a Biblical text, it is at times unclear precisely what is being dated. Does the date relate so some historical event which may have occurred, or alternatively, is it projected into another era? Does it refer to the possible formation date of an oral tradition, or is it perhaps some phase in its development through history which is being dated? Is it the a quo date for when a text is judged to have been written down, or the date ad quem, or some process of rewriting – either between these two dates, or possibly some minor editorial alteration after the ad quo date – which is to be given? Is it referring to a time when an interpretative frame was placed around existing text? This article provides an overview of what it is about a text that may be dated. It concludes with an appeal for greater accuracy of formulation in the already precarious matter of dating biblical texts.
Ontwikkeling vanaf ’n simplistiese na ’n gevorderde agrariese ekonomie in die leefwêreld van die Bybel
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Volschenk, G.J. (Gert Jacobus)
The aim of this article, is to study the development of the ancient economy from a simplistic agrarian society to an advanced agrarian society. The Hasmonian Empire formed the bridge from a simplistic to an advanced agrarian society. The Roman Empire was the end product of the evolution process and an example of the advanced agrarian society.
Genesis 38 binne die Josefverhaal : ’n literêr-sosiologiese perspektief
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Viljoen, D.A.; Breytenbach, A.P.B. (Andries Petrus Bernardus), 1944-
A review of research on Gen 38 defines it as a literary riddle. The reasoning of this passage’s positioning and function within the Joseph narrative leads to a maze of different viewpoints. This article systematizes research on Gen 38 into three basic viewpoints: [1] Gen 38 forms an intrinsic part of the Joseph narrative; [2] Gen 38 is an independent literary unit; [3] Gen 38 is dialectically related to the Joseph narrative. Gen 38 reflects a polemical Southern perspective of the Kingdom of Judah against a Northern perspective of the Kingdom of Israel. This viewpoint links up with the argument that Gen 38 should be seen as dialectically related to the Joseph narrative.
Boek Josua gelees teen ’n na-eksiliese agtergrond
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Lindeque, G.C. (Gert Cornelis); Breytenbach, A.P.B. (Andries Petrus Bernardus), 1944-
This article argues that the book of Joshua portrays the idealistic views held by the post-exilic community on the history of Israel. The book displays remarkable similarities with Third Isaiah and with narratives from the post-exilic period. By reading the book of Joshua against a post-exilic background, it obtains theological significance, not as a historical account of the occupation of the land, but as a call for the acceptance of foreigners into the community of the people of YHWH, as well as for the decentralization of religious power. The book owes its final form to a marginalized group, who were in conflict with the religious leaders in Jerusalem. The book of Joshua functioned as a contra-narrative against the exclusive claims made by the returning exiles.
Disappointed expectations and false hopes : the message of Ezekiel 13:1-16 in a time of change
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Van Rooy, Harry F.
Ezekiel 13 forms part of a whole complex in the book of Ezekiel dealing with those prophetic voices challenged by the prophet Ezekiel. His audience paid no attention to his message and had expectations of a quick return from exile. These false expectations were bolstered by false prophets. The prophet unmasks their false-hood as part of an attempt to get the people to listen to his message aimed at repentance. This article explores the meaning of this crucial passage for contemporary South Africa.
Daniëlboek se twee Sitze im Leben
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Nel, Malan; Human, Dirk J.
Die Book of Daniel presupposes an exilic date of origin in the sixth century. The real context in which the book originated is the second century BC, during the persecution by Antiochus IV Epiphanes of Jewish fanatics opposing his hellenization policy. In order to fully understand the book, it is necessary to take into account the historical detail of both contexts.
The Exodus and the spade : the impact of archaeology on the interpretation of the book of Exodus
(Pretoria : University of Pretoria, Faculty of Theology, 2002) Bosman, Hendrik Ludolph
The interpretation of the book of Exodus is used as an example of the different ways in which archaeological discoveries influenced the course of biblical exegesis. Special emphasis will be placed on matters such as the Amarna letters and the Habiru, Merneptah Stele and the date of the Exodus and the Egyptian background of the Exodus. In conclusion it will be argued that critical dialogue and mutual respect must exist between archaeology and biblical studies. The theological interpretation of biblical texts is inevitably an interdisciplinary endeavor and archaeology is an academic discipline that must be part of the critical dialogue with biblical exegesis.
A structural-historical investigation of [violence and destruction] in Jeremiah 6:1-8
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Snyman, S.D. (Stephanus Daniel), 1954-; Snyman, Fanie, 1954-
The text internal features of Jeremiah 6:1-8 are examined, focussing on the demarcation of the pericope, text critical matters and the structural characteristics of the text. A three part division of the pericope is proposed, namely verses 1-3, 4-5 and 6-8. A “Steigerung” between the different parts of the text is detected: in verses 1-3 the people are warned by the prophet to flee from Jerusalem, then in versus 4-5 the shouts of the enemy forces can be heared and finally in verses 6-8 there is a word of warning from Yahweh Himself. Text external features are also investigated. The Gattung can be indentified as an announcement of judgment presented as a warning. Reference is made to two of the well known salvation traditions in Israel: the tradition of the conquest of the land and the Zion tradition.
Uitdrukking “seun van die mens” in die Jesus-tradisie : ’n ontwikkeling vanaf ’n landbou-omgewing na die wêreld van skrifgeleerdes
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Van Aarde, A.G. (Andries G.)
The aim of the article is to show that Jesus used the expression “son of man” generically, meaning “humankind”. This generic use developed into a “titular” usage in which his followers identified Jesus with the apocalyptic son of man. It is argued that Jesus’ use of the expression “son of man” should be understood in the context of his subversive wisdom and the “little tradition” of peasants. His followers reinterpreted this usage in terms of the “great tradition” of scribes. This development is demonstrated by means of a Jesus wisdom saying about a comparison between the fate of beasts and the son of man who has nowhere to lay his head (Q 9:58).
Kerkvorming en -ontwikkeling in die Nuwe-Testamentiese tydvak
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Pelser, G.M.M. (Gerhardus Marthinus Maritz)
This study considers the question as to how the church originated, in view of the fact that it was not founded or intended by Jesus, and examines how it developed during the course of time covered by the writings of the New Testament. It concludes firstly that the church did not originate as a single entity, but as different believing communities following the death of Jesus, secondly that the delay of the parousia resulted in the institutionalizing of the church and consequently, in the loss of what can be regarded as some of the basic and most important characteristics of the church, especially as far as Paul’s understanding is concerned. The study concludes with a list of what could be regarded as common features of the church as portrayed by most of the documents of the New Testament.
Monolatries-monoteïstiese perspektiewe in die Psalms : konsep vir ’n teologiese ontwerp uit Eksodus 15:1b-18
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Human, Dirk J.
This article proposes a theological concept from Exodus 15:1b-18 for the monolatric-monotheistic discussion in the Psalms. After some introductory perspectives on the monotheism debate in general a few themes are identified from Exodus 15. These include themes such as of the incomparability of Yahweh, His kingship as well as the exclusivity of Yahweh’s existence and the theme of worshipping him. Finally, the praise of Yahweh as God of the gods forms the climax for this theological construct. The concept is then proposed as basis for the monolatric-monotheistic discussion in the psalms.
Gerhard von Rad – ’n honderd jaar
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Le Roux, J.H. (Jurie Hendrik), 1944-
In 2001 Old Testament scholars celebrated the birth of Gerhard von Rad’s birth one hundred years ago. As a contribution to these celebrations, this article focuses on Von Rad and his views on history. Von Rad emphasized the importance of historical criticism and he valued the views of Wellhausen and Gunkel. His own approach can be termed “tradition history”. Von Rad used these critical tools to determine the “theological maximum” of the Old Testament. He was interested in Israel’s own presentation of Yahweh’s history with them. In a particular way, Von Rad brought history and theology, critical scholarship en theological reflection together. This extremely important intellectual contribution is elaborated in the ensuing article.
Reading Proverbs 3:1-12 in its social and ideological context
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Prinsloo, Gert Thomas Marthinus
Proverbs 3:1-12 is a masterful example of Hebrew poetry. It is quite permissible to analyse and enjoy the poem for its own sake. However, it should be taken into account that the text was written from a wisdom perspective, implying that it had a didactic function in the social context in which it originated. In this aticle the text is investigated on three levels. It commences with an analysis of the text as a poem, then moves towards an analysis of the type of society where such a text might have originated in order to determine the ideology that served as motivating principle for that society. In the process the role of Israelite wisdom literature in the context of the Ancient Near Eastern wisdom corpus and the influence of wisdom teachers upon society will also be touched upon. This will lead to some conclusions about the relevance of studying this literature for our own society.
The (poetic) rhetoric of wisdom in Proverbs 3:1-12
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Potgieter, J.H. (Johan Hendrik), 1952-
Proverbs 3:1-12 is a masterful example of Hebrew poetry. Failure to consider its poetic structure, is likely to result in incomplete and even incorrect interpretation. Many recent commentaries on Proverbs recognize the poetic character of the book, and even include a section on the poetic techniques present in the book, but ignore the relevance of these techniques as far as the interpretation of the individual poems and the book in general are concerned. This article argues that a comprehensive analysis of poetic features enhances the exegete’s ability to appreciate the rhetoric of wisdom. An intratextual approach towards Proverbs 3:1-12 provides a framework for the complete interpretation of the text.

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