Summary and Source Page for Truth, Not Trickery 3.0

 

Truth Not Trickery 3.0 Summary and Sources

It has been over a decade since this blog began, and now it's time for Truth Not Trickery 3.0. Today, we explore Leviticus 18:22 to understand the meaning of "abomination" and its connection to idol worship.

The English word "abomination" comes from the Ancient Hebrew word tô`ēbâ (or toebah/toevah - aka 8441). It appears 76 times in the King James Bible, denoting something hateful in relation to idols.


According to Jacob Milgrom's "Leviticus 17-22: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary" and David F. Greenberg's "The Construction of Homosexuality," scholars argue that the verse refers to male temple prostitution and idolatrous practices rather than homosexuality.



In Leviticus 18:21, Moses forbids sacrificing children to the idol Molech. Then, in verse 18:22, he condemns lying with a man as with a woman, using the same language associated with hating idol worship.

Historically, male-male sex rituals were practiced in ancient Rome to gain power and forge connections with idols. This context sheds light on the interpretation of Leviticus 18:22.

While the link between male temple prostitution and Moloch is subject to debate and interpretation, it is crucial to consider the specific idolatrous context of the verse.

Sources and further reading suggestions for the original post (click here to read the full version of Truth,Not Trickery 3.0)

Jacob Milgrom's "Leviticus 17-22: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary" provides insights into the interpretation of Leviticus 18:22 and its connection to male temple prostitution and idolatrous practices.


David F. Greenberg's "The Construction of Homosexuality" explores the understanding of Leviticus 18:22 in relation to homosexuality, idolatry, and the cultural context of ancient societies.

These sources offer scholarly perspectives on the interpretation of Leviticus 18:22, emphasizing the potential reference to idolatry and male temple prostitution rather than homosexuality. They contribute to a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which the verse was written.




To explore these topics further, I recommend referring to the works of biblical scholars and historians who have studied the religious practices and cultural context of the ancient Near East, such as:Mark S. Smith, "The Early History of God: Yahweh and the Other Deities in Ancient Israel."
William G. Dever, "Did God Have a Wife? Archaeology and Folk Religion in Ancient Israel."
Karel van der Toorn, Bob Becking, and Pieter W. van der Horst (editors), "Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible."

These sources can provide more detailed insights and help you explore the subject with scholarly perspectives.