Theology Today , 1993. It is often overlooked how ideologically explosive the notion of the kingdom of God was within Jesus' own social milieu. In first-century Palestine, it did not have the same metaphorical and strictly religious connotation that makes the term so safe within our own theological world. In fact, it evoked the memory and visionary impulse of Yahweh who acts to deliver Yahweh's 'chosen ones' from occupation and oppression at the hands of alien nations. The Interface of Rhetoric and Culture in Mark's Gospel.
Questions score points, draw blood, and shame opponents.
The same interpretation applies equally to the phenomenon of answering a question with a counter-question, which also is an aggressive weapon. The fundamental commandment, which the scribe here sees as THE issue, is not at all trivial. This course is intended to provide you with an introduction to the experience of Talmudic learning, as it has been carried on among traditional Jews since ancient times. Israel, the name used in the Shema, means to struggle with, or encounter G-d. The Shema, then, addresses that part of every human soul that longs to connect with the spiritual, to align herself with her true purpose.