Off-campus ETSU users: To download "Campus Only" theses, please use the following link to log in to our proxy server with your ETSU username and password.
Non-ETSU users: Please talk to your librarian about requesting this thesis through interlibrary loan.
Degree Name
MA (Master of Arts)
Program
History
Date of Award
5-2003
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
William Douglas Burgess Jr.
Committee Members
Jeff Gold, Marie Tedesco, Ronnie M. Day
Abstract
This paper explores the development of the concept of the mitzvot of love within Pharisaic Judaism. Emphasis is placed on adherence to the Covenant through the conscious act of love, stemming from the Levitical law “to love your neighbor as yourself.” Examination begins with the Babylonian Exile, and concludes with the First Jewish War with Rome. Attention is placed on the Pharisaic sect. The Pharisees ability to synchronize Greek philosophy and Jewish covenant theology, created a new identity for the Jewish people, emphasizing the mitzvot of love. The Pharisaic academy most revered for placing value on the mitzvot of love, was the School of Hillel the Elder. For Hillel the Elder, the only true way to fulfill the Covenant was through active participation in the mitzvot to love. His youngest disciple, Yohannan ben Zakkai, followed in his master’s teachings, rebuilding Judaism through love following the First Jewish War with Rome.
Document Type
Thesis - restricted
Recommended Citation
Kahn, Sheri I., "From Mitzvot to Agape." (2003). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 769. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/769
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.