How The Reconciliation In Jacob Is Israel, The Beloved Son
Even though the ending of the Joseph story involves two similar scenes ,(45:1-8 and 50:15-21), detailing reconciliation and forgiveness between Joseph and his brothers, they are central to the story They provide a point and counterpoint to the entire tale, which allows the reader to understand the thematic content the author presents. By exploring the questions of why the stories are repeated, the significance of the differences between the two scenes and how they relate to the following ideas presented in the class, Jacob is Israel, the Beloved son, and the Challenge of Closeness, a clearer picture will emerge of the purpose of the story. Levenson (1995) points out that the reason why this same episode reappears is that the reconciliation of the siblings is ordered around
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Levenson (1995) discussed the problematics of chosenness, stating that both Judaism and Christianity have struggled with the theological concept inherent in its meaning. Let's recall what was said concerning theological challenge of the Doctrine of Election. In talking about the challenge of chosenness he writes “those not chosen are unlikely to view their status with grace and quiet acceptance. If the challenge of the chosen is to bear their exalted status with humility and altruism. The challenge of the un-chosen and chosen is meaningless unless some are not chosen to play their subordinate role with grace and with due regard for the common good”. Therefore, just as Joseph saw his role as a leader, being ordered to the service of his brothers, thus Judah and his siblings must realize their roles with a similar humility. This is evidenced in the final text. The brothers intentionally throw themselves at Joseph's feet, and proclaimed that they were his servants and offer their allegiance with reverence and humility. Joseph in turn tells them to bow before no one, only God, and it was God’s will that he was sent to Egyptian in order to provide for
Levenson (1995) discussed the problematics of chosenness, stating that both Judaism and Christianity have struggled with the theological concept inherent in its meaning. Let's recall what was said concerning theological challenge of the Doctrine of Election. In talking about the challenge of chosenness he writes “those not chosen are unlikely to view their status with grace and quiet acceptance. If the challenge of the chosen is to bear their exalted status with humility and altruism. The challenge of the un-chosen and chosen is meaningless unless some are not chosen to play their subordinate role with grace and with due regard for the common good”. Therefore, just as Joseph saw his role as a leader, being ordered to the service of his brothers, thus Judah and his siblings must realize their roles with a similar humility. This is evidenced in the final text. The brothers intentionally throw themselves at Joseph's feet, and proclaimed that they were his servants and offer their allegiance with reverence and humility. Joseph in turn tells them to bow before no one, only God, and it was God’s will that he was sent to Egyptian in order to provide for