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b-hebrew - Re: [b-hebrew] Wellhausen

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  • From: Moshe Shulman <mshulman AT ix.netcom.com>
  • To: Michael Abernathy <michaelabernat9001 AT sbcglobal.net>
  • Cc: b-hebrew AT lists.ibiblio.org
  • Subject: Re: [b-hebrew] Wellhausen
  • Date: Mon, 24 Dec 2007 15:25:23 -0500

At 12:33 PM 12/24/2007, you wrote:
It has been a long time since I have actually indulged in a serious
discussion of Wellhausen's theories. So, I am probably too dated to
contribute to this discussion. However, I would like to ask a question.
How verifiable is this theory? I have only read one study which
attempted to prove the existence of distinct sources based on a computer
analysis of stylistic differences in Genesis. That study was at best
inconclusive. I can't say that I am surprised. I should think such a
study might reveal the most blatant plagiarism but any storyteller
adapting material from other sources would probably use the style he was
most comfortable with rather than retaining the style of the original
sources.
I guess I do have one additional question. Can anyone tell me if any
modern studies have been done to prove the viability of identifying
different source materials used to produce a story?

Verifiability is shown not of the text whose composition is unknown, but on known texts. One would need to have a program that worked in three cases: Genesis, text A of single authorship, text B with multiple authorships. I have never heard of anyone even considering doing this type of test. The so-called 'Bible Codes' have a better test record.

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Moshe Shulman outreach AT judaismsanswer.com 718-436-7705
Judaism's Answer: http://www.judaismsanswer.com/





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