Data Over Dogma Did the Bible Steal its Stories?
Jun 16, 2025
The discussion dives into the intriguing idea that many biblical stories may stem from ancient myths of Southwest Asia and Northern Africa. Scholars explore the shared roots of these narratives, questioning who truly originated them. The conversation shifts to Haggai, revealing unexpected depth in its two short chapters, and connects historical themes with modern spiritual challenges. The hosts also reflect on cultural exchanges that influenced storytelling, suggesting that biblical motifs have evolved through time and across various cultures.
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Episode notes
Psalm 29's Cultural Adaptation
- Psalm 29 appropriates storm deity imagery originally meant for Baal from neighboring cultures.
- Biblical writers adapted such hymns, replacing Baal with Adonai to fit their worship context.
Genesis 1 Engages Enuma Elish
- The Genesis 1 creation account parallels parts of Enuma Elish but serves to challenge and reinterpret it.
- Biblical authors engaged surrounding traditions thoughtfully to present their own ideological narrative, not just to copy.
Proverbs and Egyptian Influence
- Biblical wisdom literature like Proverbs shows clear influence from older Egyptian texts like the Instruction of Amenemope.
- Israelites incorporated foreign wisdom traditions into their own ethical teachings over time.
