Abstract

Abstract This study argues that the ἄγγελος πονηρός in Barn 9.4 was Satan. James Carleton Paget, Adolf Hilgenfeld, Ferdinand Prostmeier and Geza Vermes gestured toward this interpretation, but none offered evidence for this identification other than assertion. In Barnabas, there is a constellation of ideas that connect circumcision with Satan, namely circumcision with pagan idolatry (9.6), idolatry to demons (16.7), and finally idolatry and demons to Satan’s ultimate rule (18.1; 20.1). Satan is also related to other obsolete Jewish cultic practices (2.4, 6; 16.1–2, 7). Barnabas also repeatedly describes the devil with the adjective πονηρός. Additionally, the fourth-century papyrus PSI VII 757r reads ἄγγελος ὁ πονηρός, identifying the angel as Satan. The “Ethiopianisation” of Satan as “the black one” (as argued by Clare Rothschild) confirms this reading. Since “Ethiopians” practiced circumcision, the devil as a “the black one” associates Satan with circumcision.

Highlights

  • This short study argues that the ἄγγελος πονηρός in Barn 9.4 should be identified with Satan, which is referred to in the text with the epithets ὁ πονηρός, ὁ ἄρχων, and ὁ μέλας

  • It is obvious that the ἄγγελος πονηρός has some demonic connection to Satan, since it presides over the angels and way of darkness (18.1). He does not explicitly say Barnabas refers to Satan in 9.4, Carleton Paget gestured towards this connection, focusing on the inherent dualistic framework of Barnabas: “ it seems reasonable to argue that the use of πονηρός ἄγγελος to describe the figure who deceives the Jews into implementing circumcision literally, is wholly in keeping with B.’s generally dualistic view that sees evil personified in an evil figure.”[15]. Ferdinand Prostmeier argued that the ἄγγελος πονηρός was “materially parallel” (“sachlich parallel”) with the various epithets used to describe the devil in Barnabas (i.e. ὁ πονηρός, ὁ ἄρχων, and ὁ μέλας).[16]

  • James Carleton Paget observed, “[t]hat B[arnabas] has sought refuge in evil agencies makes him in one respect closer to those opponents of Ptolemy who attribute the giving of the law to the Devil.”[37]. This study confirms that Barnabas is proximate with such opponents but readily aligns with them

Read more

Summary

Introduction

This short study argues that the ἄγγελος πονηρός in Barn 9.4 should be identified with Satan, which is referred to in the text with the epithets ὁ πονηρός, ὁ ἄρχων, and ὁ μέλας.

Results
Conclusion

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.