Jerusalem’s lament and consolation: Baruch’s appropriation of LXX Isaiah 49 in 1 Baruch 4:5-5:9

Adams, S. (2011) Jerusalem’s lament and consolation: Baruch’s appropriation of LXX Isaiah 49 in 1 Baruch 4:5-5:9. In: SBL Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA, USA, 19-22 Nov 2011,

Abstract

The Song of Lament by Jerusalem and her consolation in 1 Baruch 4:5—5:9 is one of the most original parts of 1 Baruch and is strategically located at the conclusion of the narrative. Prior to this section, the wisdom poem (1 Baruch 3:9—4:4) reframed Job 28 and questioned where wisdom was found. It is at this point, however, that there is a radical shift in perspective. Not only is the theme of wisdom abandoned, but the hopeful perspective is refocused on the grieving Jerusalem. Here the author of Baruch adopts Greek Isianic language, not only to recount the sins of the Israelites, but also in his oracle of consolation (esp. Isa 49:14-26). In addition to providing the model for this section, Second and Third Isaiah also provide specific images and details that frame Jerusalem’s suffering and consolation in light of Isianic promises (e.g., Isa 52:1-12; 54:1-17; 60:1-22; 62:1-12). This paper seeks to tease out how 1 Baruch’s appropriation of Second Isaiah, both in this section and in the work as a whole. Ultimately Baruch makes use of Greek Isaiah to provide a theological understanding of the people’s place within God’s cosmos and ultimately concludes on a positive note, confident in final redemption.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Adams, Professor Sean
• Authors: Adams, S.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Critical Studies > Theology and Religious Studies