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{en} Daniel Chanan Matt. Becoming Elijah: Prophet of Transformation. New Haven - London: Yale University Press, 2022.

Abstract

"In the Bible Elijah is a zealous prophet, attacking idolatry and injustice, championing God. He performs miracles, restoring life and calling down fire. When his earthly life ends, he vanishes in a whirlwind, carried off to heaven in a fiery chariot. Was this a spectacular death, or did Elijah escape death entirely? The latter view prevailed. Though residing in heaven, Elijah revisits earth-to help, rescue, enlighten, and eventually herald the Messiah. Because of his messianic role, Jews open the door for Elijah during each seder - the meal commemorating liberation from slavery and anticipating final redemption. How did this zealot turn into a compassionate hero-apparently the most popular figure in Jewish folklore? Becoming Elijah explores this question, tracing how Elijah develops from the Bible to Rabbinic Judaism, Kabbalah, and Jewish ritual (as well as Christianity and Islam). His transformation is pertinent and inspirational for our polarized, fanatical world."--

Contents

I have been so zealous for YHVH: Elijah in the Hebrew Bible -- The compassionate super-rabbi: Elijah in the Talmund and midrash -- Inspiring the mystics: Elijah in the kabbalah -- Elijah and the daughters of Judaism -- Rituals of anticipation -- Becoming Elijah.