Biblical Hebrew Forum

[James Read <J.Read-2 AT sms.ed.ac.uk>]

I have to admit I don't know who he is either. But I'm sure that most  
professors have a university email account that you could write to.

Karl has given you the linguistic arguments. I strongly suspect that  
Alter has theological reasons for his interpretation.

Have you looked at old translations to see how this rendered? Why not  
look at the LXX and the Vulgate and the Old Latin versions and the  
Peshitta? This should give you an idea of how this was understand back  
in the days of these translations.

James Christian

Quoting Jay Frank <jif95 AT mac.com>:

> George,
>
> You wrote: "You know, Jim, I was almost going to agree with you   
> (shock horror), until you claimed that Alter must think that Joseph   
> is really only 8½ years old. Shall I email him (Alter, not Joseph)   
> and ask him whether that is his opinion? "
>
> I, for one, am more than pleased to see talk of 6-month years set   
> aside, but I continue to be intrigued by Alter's claim regarding the  
>  rendering of 1 Samuel 15:31. I simply do not understand his   
> insistence, particularly given Ruth 1:15 noted by Mr. Shead.   
> Certainly it's difficult to believe that a person with his   
> credentials would be so adamant without reason. If you could suggest  
>  a way I might contact the professor or, if you prefer, raise the   
> question for me, I would be most appreciative.
>
> Jay
>
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