kata ta biblia

a blog exploring Christian origins, biblical studies, social/cultural history, method, education and the journey through academia

We need more umph in scholarly rhetoric…

I’m just reading through Josephus’ Against Apion and read this line:

There is the evidence which Apion should have considered, had he not himself been gifted with the mind of an ass and the impudence of the dog, which his countrymen are wont to worship. [2.85]

Beautiful, especially the last clause there. This statement comes after Josephus’ comment that Apion has not considered the appropriate sources and is ridiculous in his suggestion that the Jews’ have the head of an ass in their temple. Though I have seen some scholarly rhetoric get close to this, it sure would be fun to have people called out as having the “mind of an ass and the impudence of the dog.” Maybe it wouldn’t be very productive, but fun. Perhaps I will work it into my dissertation when I get there.

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4 Comments by Patrick George McCullough  /  January 16, 2009  /  Posted in: humor, Josephus, quotes, rhetoric, scholarship
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  • http://ottomann.wordpress.com Otto Mann

    we DO need more umph!!

  • http://ancienthebrewpoetry.typepad.com John Hobbins

    This is where Latin comes in handy. Apparently it is all right to say some things in Latin that are to be avoided in the vernacular.

  • http://patmccullough.com/ Patrick George McCullough

    Indeed! I’m glad I’m taking Latin now.

  • http://www.echoofeden.com slaveofone

    I’m reading foundational essays in the field of “Old Testament Theology” or “Biblical Theology” by people such as Johann Gabler, Otto Eissfeldt, etc, and despite their keen observations, erudite scholarship, and what they were able to contribute to the advancement and progress of the discipline, I can only shake my head in astonishment at some of the utter foolishness that served as a foundation of this field… I feel this fun (albeit pejorative) declaration aptly fits most of these dead luminaries (i.e. black holes).