Abstract:
Since the 1970s, biblical studies have experienced a “spatial turn,” giving rise
to an emphasis on a variety of approaches to the spatial analysis of biblical texts.
Space is something that is constructed, produced, and represented by means of
words. It is thus possible for the associations and memories of spaces to change.
This study’s purpose is threefold: (1) to provide a short overview of the
significance of studying space and memory together; (2) to provide an overview
of ancient Near Eastern cosmic geography to contextualise our study’s reference
to vertical spatial orientation; and (3) to illustrate how such a vertical spatial
reading can aid us in better understanding the text of Obadiah, which deals
predominantly with space in terms of land and sacred space.
