Dear Yigal,
I discuss the term torah in my article in Persia and Torah, edited by Jim
Watts.
(I repeat the discussion in my book.)
I compare it to the Egyptian hp, the Persian dat, and Akkadian kinatu.
It can probably also be compared to the Greek nomos.
"Law" is a mistranslation, and creates confusion. It is anachronistic.
In my opinion it is more correctly translated "correct procedure,"
"rightful behavior," "custom." I have bibliography in my article.
Best,
Liz
Lisbeth S. Fried
University of Michigan
> -----Original Message-----
> From: b-hebrew-bounces AT lists.ibiblio.org [mailto:b-hebrew-
> bounces AT lists.ibiblio.org] On Behalf Of Yigal Levin
> Sent: Friday, August 13, 2004 11:42 AM
> To: b-hebrew
> Subject: [b-hebrew] Torah
>
> Here's an interesting topic for discussion: Just what does the word
"Torah"
> mean.