Animals as Social Construction in the Hebrew Bible

Animals in Biblical Texts

Through the hermeneutical lens of human-animal studies, this volume explores how biblical texts help construct a precise image of animals and assign them a precise role within society. In this regard, three central moments are considered:

(a) Creation narratives: Examining the two creation narratives shows how these are functional in creating a hierarchy within the animal kingdom, elevating domestic animals over other animals and positioning humans as God’s privileged interlocutors.

(b) Biblical Legislation: The second part explores how legal codes frame animals as ‘objects’ in a human-centered relationship, reinforcing a definite hierarchical social order. However, it also reveals instances where animals assume the role of ‘legal subjects’ with associated responsibilities.

(c) Institution of sacrifices: The third section explores how sacrifices in the Hebrew Bible shape the perception of animals and determine their social role. A comparative approach between ritual texts in Leviticus and references to sacrifices in prophetic texts opens up different perspectives on the suffering of animals during sacrifices.

Das Buch ist auch als Open Access-Publikation erhältlich.