‘Eyes to Hear’: Nehemiah 1:6 from a Pragmatics and Ritual Theory Perspective

Gerald A. Klingbeil, Chantal J. Klingbeil

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Abstract

This study of the enigmatic phrase ועינחך פתוחות לשמע אל־תפלת עבדך 'and your eyes open to listen to the prayer of your servant' (Neh 1,6) utilizes an interdisciplinary approach involving insights from linguistic pragmatics and ritual theory. We will begin with a brief review of the history of interpretation of this phrase. Particular attention will then be given to elements of ritual theory, such as trigger point, ritual language, time, place, sequence, etc. Finally, we will examine the pragmatic context, discourse, and conversational strategies involved with this phrase.
Original languageAmerican English
Pages (from-to)91-102
JournalBiblica
Volume91
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2010

Keywords

  • Biblical Studies
  • Old Testament
  • Nehemiah
  • Ritual Theory
  • Pragmatics
  • Hebrew

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