Body and Character in Luke and Acts
Subtitle: The Subversion of Physiognomy in Early Christianity
Publisher: Baker Academic
Published: December 1, 2006
Language: eng
Format: Paperback
Number of pages: 192
ISBN-13: 9780801028854
Subjects: Biblical studies, criticism & exegesis; Religion - Commentaries / Reference; Criticism, interpretation, etc; New Testament - Single Book Studies; Religion; Christianity; Physiognomy; Luke; Biblical Criticism & Interpretation - New Testament; Biblical Studies - History & Culture; Biblical Studies: Gospels/Acts, Biblical Studies: New Testament Backgrounds/Historical Studies/Archaeology; Religion / Bible / Criticism, Interpretation / New Testament; Bible - Stories - New Testament; Religious aspects; Acts; Bible; N.T
Description: In the ancient world, it was commonly believed that outward appearance provided clues to inner character. The "science" relating physical appearance to moral character is called physiognomy. Mikeal Parsons shows how a number of interesting episodes in Luke and Acts draw upon physiognomy only to subvert it. For example, short physical stature was an indicator of small-mindedness. After his encounter with Jesus, Zacchaeus is still short physically; however, his small-mindedness has been healed, and he repays fourfold those he has defrauded. Thus Luke ultimately denies that any direct line can be drawn between physical appearance and moral character.