Peter H.W. Lau, «Gentile Incorporation into Israel in Ezra - Nehemiah?», Vol. 90 (2009) 356-373
In contrast to other texts dated to the post-exilic period, Ezra – Nehemiah is well known for its separatist policy towards gentiles. Two exceptions in EN are the possible participation of foreigners in the Passover ceremony (Ezra 6,19-21) and the community pledge to follow the Torah (Neh 10,29[28]). An examination of antecedent Passover celebrations reveals that participation in the Passover marks out those who are members of ‘true’ Israel. This article argues that these cases indeed exhibit an anomalous inclusiveness, and discusses how it can be understood within the wider ethno-theological thrust of EN.
Gentile Incorporation into Israel in Ezra – Nehemiah? 373
in the Restoration period, when Israelite national identity becomes es-
tablished, that emphasis is placed on genealogy once again (72). In-
deed, the stability of Israelite identity may have also been a factor
contributing to the more open acceptance of outsiders (73).
Sydney Missionary and Bible College Peter H.W. LAU
43 Badminton Rd, Croydon 2132, Australia
SUMMARY
In contrast to other texts dated to the post-exilic period, Ezra – Nehemiah is well
known for its separatist policy towards gentiles. Two exceptions in EN are the
possible participation of foreigners in the Passover ceremony (Ezra 6,19-21) and
the community pledge to follow the Torah (Neh 10,29[28]). An examination of
antecedent Passover celebrations reveals that participation in the Passover marks
out those who are members of ‘true’ Israel. This article argues that these cases
indeed exhibit an anomalous inclusiveness, and discusses how it can be under-
stood within the wider ethno-theological thrust of EN.
(72) See Y. LEVIN, “From Lists to History: Chronological Aspects of the
Chronicler’s Genealogiesâ€, JBL 123 (2004) 601-636; Y. LEVIN, “Who Was the
Chronicler’s Audience? A Hint from His Genealogiesâ€, JBL 122 (2003) 229-
245.
(73) For a discussion of the inclusive stance found in Chronicles, see, e.g.,
G.N. KNOPPERS, “Intermarriage, Social Complexity, and Ethnic Diversity in the
Genealogy of Judahâ€, JBL 120 (2001) 15-30.