Structure and Allusion in the Apostrophe Zion (11QPs a 22:1-15)

Updated by: 
Oren Ableman
Research notes: 
Reader Checked OA 02/07/2013
Reference type: 
Journal Article
Author(s): 
Henderson, Ruth
year: 
2013
Full title: 

Structure and Allusion in the Apostrophe Zion (11QPs a 22:1-15)

Journal / Book Title || Series Title: 
Dead Sea Discoveries
Volume: 
20
Issue / Series Volume: 
1
Pages: 
51-70
Abstract: 

The Apostrophe to Zion (11QPs a 22:1–15) is a Second Temple song structured as an alphabetic acrostic. A tripartite structure at alphabetic units ע-ת, ט-ס, א-ח with each part enclosed by inclusio has also been observed. In this paper it is proposed that the song also displays a seven part concentric structure, comprising A//A1—an opening and closing invocation to praise at units א-ב// ר-ת ; an outer circle B//B1 units ג-ח//ע-ק in which a vision of the glorious future of Zion is recalled; an inner circle C//C1 units ט-כ//מ-ס in which past saving events are recalled and reflected upon in terms of the wisdom doctrine of retribution, and finally, a central section D at unit ל in which the hope of Zion is reaffirmed. Within this concentric structure the poet balances two biblical allusions to Isa 66:10–11 and Dan 9:24 in such a way that they enter into dialogue one with the other. In this the poet shares what appears to be a common Second Temple interpretive strategy of viewing earlier scriptural texts in the light of later ones.

Alternative title: 
DSD
Hebrew bible: 
Book: 
Isaiah
Chapter(s): 
66
Book: 
Daniel
Chapter(s): 
9
Primary Texts: Judean Desert Documents: 
Scroll / Document: 
11Q5
Section type: 
Column
Passage: 
22
URL: 
http://booksandjournals.brillonline.com/content/10.1163/15685179-12341244
Label: 
27/05/2013
Record number: 
18 704