Purity is a cultural construct that had a central role in the forming
and the development of religious traditions in the ancient
Mediterranean. This volume analyzes concepts, practices and images
associated with purity in the main cultures of Antiquity, and discusses
from a comparative perspective their parallel developments and
transformations. The perspective adopted is both synchronic and
diachronic; the comparative approach takes into account points of
contact and mutual influences, but also includes major transcultural
trends. A number of renowned specialists contribute a large variety of
perspectives and approaches, combining archaeology, epigraphy and social
history; in addition, particular attention is given to concepts of
purity in ancient Israel and early Judaism as a ‘test-case’ of sorts.
Through its extensive coverage, the volume contributes decisively to the
present discussion about the forming of religious traditions in the
ancient Mediterranean world.
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