Numbering the Heaven(s): John Chrysostom's Use of Exegetical Traditions for Gen. 1,6-8 (Hom. Gen. IV)

This study is a source critical analysis of John Chrysostom's exegesis of Gen. 1,6-8. It is demonstrated that rather than a superficial gloss of the difficult verses, he engages in ongoing debate with Alexandrian and Antiochene contemporaries. Historical-theological issues of divine knowability and trinitarian theology, particularly in regard to the Pneumatomachians and the neo-Arian group after Eunomius, are significant factors within the debate. Emphasis is given to John Chrysostom's reference to the Syriac language in his exegesis of this verse; it is concluded that he had contact with an exegete or group of exegetes who were versatile in both Syriac and Greek. Finally, the rhetorical effects of these engagements are considered, indicating that John Chrysostom expected his audience to engage with the issue on some level, even if they were not fully aware of the stakes of the debate.status: publishe