Judith

1. Background

· Probably a code name for “Jew” (cf. 10:19), as Bethuliah may be a code name for “virgin” Israel.

· Anachronisms hint that its setting is not literally historical (e.g. Nebuchadnezzar was not an Assyrian, 1:1)

· At least final form may come from Maccabean times (e.g. 3:8; 4:2-3), although may have been based on a Persian period tale (e.g. earth and water of 2:7; recent return from exile, 4:3). Possible overtones of the beheading of Nicanor (cf. 1 Macc. 7:47).

2. Perspective on God

· Sovereign (e.g. 12:4)—His hands can’t be tied and He doesn’t have to save (8:16-17); Inscrutable (8:14-15); Wrathful on sin (9:7-10)—hates iniquity (5:17); Foreknowing (9:6); mighty in war (9:7).

· In covenant with Israel, but punishes for sins (7:28).

· Helper of oppressed, Savior of hopeless (9:11).

3. Perspective on Israel/Law

· Israel God’s elect (e.g. 14:5), but positive toward the character of Achior the Ammonite (5:5ff), who becomes a proselyte by circumcision (14:10).

· Temple in Jerusalem central to worship of God (4:11; 5:19; 9:1, 8).

· Zealous view of the importance of law keeping (8:6; 9:2; 11:12; 12:1-9).

· Israel has returned from exile? (4:3).

4. Perspective on sin/salvation

· Sin is violation of God’s commands in the law (e.g. 12:1-9).

· Deuteronomistic: God’s punishment on Israel a result of their sin (e.g. 5:17-20; 11:10). Yet God is not bound to deliver them (8:17—but cf. 11:10).

· God punishes sin, including the descendents of the sinners (7:28).

· Sacrifices and offerings are little things to God; more important is to fear Him (16:16).

· Salvation is in this world (8:17).

5. Cosmology/Eschatology

· Israel destined for greatness in the world (11:16).

· A day of judgment comes on those who rise up against Israel (16:17). No sense of a final or cosmic judgment.

· No sense of resurrection or personal, conscious afterlife.

· No sense of a messiah.

· Creation by God’s speaking and the sending forth of His spirit; foundation of the world “on the waters” (16:15).

6. Ethics

· Keeping the law very important (2:13; 11:12).

· Importance of prayer and fasting in a time of distress (4:8-15; 13:3, 10).

· Oaths cannot be broken (8:30).

7. Special Features

· Strong honor/shame language (e.g. 1:11, 14; 8:22-23; 9:2; 13:15-17; 14:18; 15:9)

· Stereotypical view of women, with allowance for exceptions (e.g. 8:7, 9:28-31; 10:4, 14, 19; 15:12-13).

· Towns run by elders (6:16; 10:6).

· Mentions the evening sacrifice at the temple (9:1).

· Singing and dancing (15:13).

· Ancient banquets (12:10-13:2).