The Performance of Parrhesia in Philo and Acts

Bibliographic Data

ID21446897
AuthorsArco den Heijer (0000-0001-7650-4238, Theological University Kampen|Utrecht, The Netherlands, corresponding author)
Year2022
Volume45
Issue2
Pages193-216
Publication date2022-12-01
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal for the Study of the New Testament (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0142-064X • E-ISSN: 1745-5294
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0142064x221113930
OpenAlexW4289523323
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited20

This article examines the role of the performance of frankness in the work of Philo of Alexandria and in the book of Acts. With respect to Philo, the differences are highlighted in the use of παρρησία between the various series of his writings. With respect to Acts, the role of scripture is emphasized in authorizing the frankness of the disciples. Comparing both, it is argued that the performance of frankness functions as a means to display inner freedom for Jews in the Roman Empire (for Philo) and for Christians within Jewish synagogues in the Roman Empire (for Acts), a freedom that consists of a sense of dignity and status. The comparison demonstrates the extent to which Philo and the book of Acts participate in a shared Roman discourse from Jewish perspectives

Ancient history · Biblical studies · Dignity · Empire · Judaism · Political science · Roman Empire · Sociology · Theology · Archaeology and Historical Studies · Biblical Studies and Interpretation · Classics · Historical and Linguistic Studies · History · Law · Philosophy · Religious studies

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