The Divine Connection: Dionysus, Covenant, and Humanity

The concept of sacrifice is one that differs sharply from the pagan to the covenantal setting. Today, Rabbi Rocklin will address the following questions:

1. How does the cult of Dionysus uniquely position Greece—and eventually Rome—to be open to the notion of the covenant?
2. What is the difference between the Jewish and Greek aversion to human sacrifice?
3. Why must the Greek gods follow through on all prophecies in contrast to the God of Bible who can be persuaded to change his mind?

Recommended Reading: D’Aulaire, Ingri & D’Aulaire, Edgar. D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths. New York: Delacorte, 1992.