ATSS: Jody Washburn “A Mosaic of Metaphors: Imagery in the Hebrew Bible as a Call to Theological Humility”
25 October 2023 |
The Hebrew language, in which much of the Old Testament is written, is a vivid and image-driven language. Throughout the Hebrew Bible, readers will find rich and varied imagery drawn upon by the authors to depict their understanding of who God is and how God engages with humans. As readers, it is easy to latch on to certain metaphors and lose sight of the incredible variety.
In this presentation, Dr. Washburn will explore some of the ways we as humans “think in metaphor” and what implications our selection of primary metaphors can have on how we think and behave. Following in the footsteps of other biblical interpreters, she will examine how increasing our awareness of and reference to the multitude of metaphors for divine-human relationship may keep us grounded theologically and protect us against a rigidity that erodes community.
Teacher:
Jody Washburn, PhD (UCLA), is a teacher, scholar, musician, and life-long wonderer. Her training is primarily in Hebrew Bible and the languages and cultures of the ancient Near East. Washburn also has training in social science and archaeology, and a sustained interest in interdisciplinary work. She taught Hebrew and biblical studies at Walla Walla University for seven years, and now teaches in the School of Social Work and Sociology. For the past few years she has been studying intersections between trauma studies, attachment theory, and Hebrew Bible concepts of shalom/wholeness, compassion, and covenant love; and she is currently creating an interactive curriculum for processing spiritual harm and religious trauma entitled “Reclaiming Our Spirituality.” Her hobbies include photographing patterns in nature, playing ragtime on the piano, crocheting, and camping with her family.
Moderator:
How to join:
One-click link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81447586698
Passcode: PROVERBS
ATSS starting time depends on where you are. If you’re on the west coast of the United States, it’ll be 10:30 AM. On the east coast, 1:30 PM. Times in Europe, Africa and elsewhere will vary with local time changes. Please double-check the correct time where you live.
The class is intended to last about 2 hours, though the conversation often continues to 4 PM (Eastern time).
About our class:
- The AT Sabbath Seminar is intended to be a courteous forum. We discuss and ask questions politely. We don’t accuse, get angry, put people down, or judge the state of their salvation.
- Stick to the topic in both comments and chat discussion.
- Make your comments and questions short—don’t dominate.
- Keep your microphones muted unless you are called upon to make your comment or ask your question.
- Indicate your interest in speaking by raising your electronic hand—under the “reactions” button.
- Please use your name when you sign in! Not your phone number, not your initials. This will help us differentiate you from unwelcome guests who want to disrupt us. You can set your name after signing on by clicking on the 3 dots next to your picture, which drops down a menu.
We look forward to getting acquainted with you!
YouTube channel:
You can see all of our previous ATSS recordings here.
Coming up:
- Tom deBruin
- Pilira Zapita (Newbold)
- Olive Hemmings (WAU)
- Tihomir Lazic
