Cultural Memories and Ethnic Identity in Ezekiel 20: A Social-Scientific Approach

This project aims to understand the concerns and beliefs of the Jewish community deported to Babylonia in the early sixth century B.C.E. that formed the narrative about their past in Ezekiel 20. Previous literatures often presuppose the importance of consolidating ethnic distinctiveness in exile.

What has not been fully considered is the multifaceted interplay of the perceived threat in the context, the worldview of these exiles, and the form of identity and narrative that they needed.

Drawing on studies documenting other lived experiences of forced displacement and relevant social scientific theories, we will interpret Ezekiel 20 from fresh perspectives.