The Search for YHWH\u27s Image in Light Seals from Biblical Times; Brent A. Strawn, PhD & Joel M. LeMon, PhD; February 7, 2017

In this lecture, Professors Strawn and LeMon analyze traditional representations of YHWH in ancient motifs. In particular, Strawn and LeMon look at what images existed in antiquity despite the Old Testament\u27s ban on images. Strawn and LeMon\u27s study focuses on specific representations that scholars suggest are emblematic of YHWH. Of these representations, LeMon and Strawn examine arguments regarding the possibility of the winged form on the Hezekiah seal as YHWH. They tie this depiction to descriptions of YHWH in the Psalms, and they position it in conjunction with other archaeological finds bearing similar scenes. They also argue for the possibility that the Lord of the Animals motif found on many seals correlates to identifications of YHWH in the biblical book of Job. Ultimately, Strawn and LeMon suggest that these seal images shed light on YHWH and assist modern readers in understanding biblical material. Pictured left, Brent A. Strawn (PhD 2001, Princeton Theological Seminary) is a professor of Old Testament and director of the Doctor of Ministry degree at Emory University. Strawn conducts research in ancient Near Eastern iconography, the Dead Sea Scrolls, Israelite religion, legal traditions of the Old Testament, and Old Testament theology. Pictured right, Joel M. LeMon (PhD 2007, Emory University) is an associate professor of Old Testament at Emory University. LeMon\u27s research focuses on the Psalms, Hebrew and Ugaritic poetry, and ancient Near Eastern history, literature and art.https://knowledge.e.southern.edu/arch_museum_lectures/1035/thumbnail.jp