Christian M. M. Brady

The Rabbinic Targum of Lamentations: Vindicating God (Studies in the Aramaic Interpretation of Scripture, 3) Christian M. M. Brady

This volume is a study of how Targum Lamentations (TgLam) interpreted and responded to the theologically challenging message of the Book of Lamentations. Through various exegetical techniques the targumist has transformed Lamentations into a rabbinic program for the synagogue. The first section examines how the targumist demonstrated that Israel herself is responsible for the destruction of Jerusalem and thus absolves God of all culpability, yet the targumist continues to assert that God is the ultimate source of all history. The second section examines how the targumist depicts God as orchestrating events through his action and abstention. Finally, the targum argues that reconciliation with God can only be come about through repentance and rabbinic worship. A new translation and a transcription of TgLam from Codex Urbanates Ebr.1 is included.