OnScript Michelle Knight – The Prophet’s Anthem
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May 20, 2025 Michelle Knight, an associate professor of Old Testament studies and author of 'The Prophet's Anthem,' dives into the significance of the Song of Deborah in Judges. She explores how this poetic element enhances our understanding of power and justice, along with its implications for gender dynamics. The discussion humorously navigates Hebrew reading challenges and shares a nostalgic love for fantasy. Knight highlights the cyclical storytelling in the Bible and advocates for a broader focus beyond male figures, mixing insightful biblical analysis with light-hearted cultural reflections.
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Song of Deborah's Theological Role
- The Song of Deborah is a theological reflection central to Judges' plot, not just poetic flair.
- It reshapes how we understand the people’s response to divine revelation in the narrative.
Poetry’s Power in Theology
- Poetry in the Bible carries potent rhetorical and affective power beyond merely decorative language.
- Theology today should integrate poetry’s emotional and imagistic strength to enrich its argumentation.
Narrative Highlights in Deborah’s Song
- The Song of Deborah recounts God's mighty theophany and Israel's initial fear and later rallying.
- The battle's climax unexpectedly occurs in Jael’s tent, subverting societal expectations.
