Through an innovative synthesis of narrative critique, oral-formulaic study, folkloric research, and literary analysis, Kristen H. Lindbeck reads all the Elijah narratives in the Babylonian Talmud and details the rise of a distinct, quasi-angelic figure who takes pleasure in ordinary interaction. During the Talmudic period of 50-500 C.E., Elijah developed into a recognizable character quite different from the Elijah of the Bible. The Elijah of the Talmud dispenses wisdom, advice, and, like the Elijah of Jewish folklore, helps people directly, even with material gifts. Lindbeck highlights particular features of the Elijah stories, allowing them to be grouped into generic categories and considered alongside Rabbinic literary motifs and non-Jewish traditions of late antiquity. She compares Elijah in the Babylonian Talmud to a range of characters--angels, rabbis, wonder-workers, the angel of death, Christian saints, and even the Greek god Hermes. She concludes with a survey of Elijah's diverse roles from medieval times to today, throwing into brilliant relief the complex relationship between ancient Elijah traditions and later folktales and liturgy that show Elijah bringing benefits and blessings, appearing at circumcisions and Passover, and visiting households after the Sabbath.

Like a craftsman who recognizes that a particular raw material will be best handled by a custom-made tool, Kristen H. Lindbeck considers the strengths and weaknesses of various existing methods to cobble together her own approach to handling the diverse Elijah texts of the Bavli. In doing so, she is able to accomplish more, more satisfactorily, than previous studies. -- Christine Hayes, Yale University

About the Author
Kristen H. Lindbeck is an associate professor of Jewish studies at Florida Atlantic University and received her doctorate from the Jewish Theological Seminary.

Reviews
Rendered in clear, succinct prose, this fine study will be useful to specialists yet accessible to nonspecialists... Recommended.Choice Choice a solid work of literary historical research that enriches our understandings of rabbinic literature, religion, and scholarly culture within the broader context of Hellenistic society. -- Eliezer Segal H-Judaic Elijah and the Rabbis is both an enjoyable read and a refreshing contribution to scholarship. -- Sonya S. Cronin Review of Biblical Literature



Book Information
ISBN 9780231130813
Author Kristen H. Lindbeck
Format Paperback
Page Count 272
Imprint Columbia University Press
Publisher Columbia University Press