Understand a likeness: Genesis creation allusions in Musar leMevin (4Q415-418,4Q423, and 1Q26)

Abstract

Musar leMevin (4Q415—418; 423; 1Q26) is a sapiential document from the Qumran library. This previously unknown composition has become the focus of considerable scholarly attention in the last ten years. Among the many observations made on the document is its focus upon aspects of creation. Most notably, the otherwise rare phrase חחת has been considered by some to allude to the order of creation. It has also been observed that a number of significant allusions to Genesis 1-3 occur in the document. For instance, 4Q416 2 iii-iv allude to Genesis 2.20-25 in a female leaving her mother and father. 4Q423 1， 2 і alludes to the Garden of Eden. 4Q416 1 is concerned with cosmology based upon creation. While these and other observations have been discussed to a limited degree, no sustained study has been conducted on allusions to Genesis creation traditions throughout Musar leMevin, This thesis approaches the question of the use of Genesis creation traditions in the following manner. It is hypothesised that an examination of allusions to Genesis 1-3 maybe valuable for interpreting the document. In chapter one, previous research on the document is reviewed and remaining unresolved issues suggested. Among the unresolved issues are a thorough understanding of anthropology and angelology in the document. In chapter two, a methodology is developed for identifying and adjudicating occurrences of allusions. Chapter three, on the basis of criteria set forth in chapter two, identifies nearly twenty allusions to Genesis 1-3 in Musar leMevin. Chapter four is dedicated to exploring anthropology and angelology on the basis of two significant allusions to Genesis 1.26-27 (4Q416 2 ііі 15-18; 4Q417 1 і 15-18) and an exegetical tradition of angelic participation in creation. Chapter five is concerned with addresses about females and directed to a female based upon a cluster of allusions to creation traditions. In conclusion, creation traditions are seen to be formative for wisdom instruction in the document and elucidate (1) angelology and anthropology; and (2) how the phrase תחתח may be better understood.