The Binding of Isaac: A Religious Model of Disobedience

by Omri Boehm

Traditional interpretations in both Judaism and Christianity argue that the Akedah presents not only an ethical question but also an ethical reply. But for the intervention of the angel, Abraham would have killed his son. Obedience to God take precedence over morality as humanly conceived. Yet, the angel of YHWH that appears to Abraham is a later addition to the text; thus, in the original narrative Abraham actually disobeys the divine command to slay his son, and sacrifices a ram instead.

The first part of the book shows how the "original" version of the narrative did not contain the angelic figure. The second part of the book re-examines various religious interpretations of the text to show that exegetes such as Maimonides and his followers did point out Abraham's disobedience. According to these writers the esoteric layer of the story in fact declares that disobedience to God's command was Abraham's true affirmation of faith. In the third part of the book, Boehm re-opens the philosophical debate between Kant and Kierkegaard. Boehm concludes the book by contending that the monotheistic model of faith presented by Abraham was actually a model of disobedience.

Genres: Religion, Philosophy

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An informed and informative guide to a difficult passage in the Old Testament. The author questions from every aspect the motivations of G-d, Abraham, the angel, and not least Isaac.
The reader may want to study further. I recommend Your Guide to the Jewish Holidays by Matt Axelrod, Understanding Genisis by Nahum Sarna.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abraham's story is one separating human ethics from divine commands. Many believe that ethics is based upon religion. My agnostic uncle would say they are independent, and occasionally contradictory. Boehm's book takes a radical view, contending that religion is based on human values such as ethics. An exciting read