On the Contemplative Life is known for its depiction of a philosophical group of Jewish men and women known as the 'Therapeutae'. Yet the reasons for their depiction have been little understood. In the first commentary on the treatise in English for over 100 years, the social, cultural and political background of the times in which Philo lived are shown to be crucial in understanding Philo's purposes. As Alexandrian Jews were vilified and attacked, Philo went to Rome to present the case for his community, faced with intense opposition. Side-stepping direct confrontation, Philo here cleverly presents the Therapeutae as the pinnacle of excellence, most especially in their communal meal, while ridiculing his accusers in a stinging parody of a festive banquet.
- ISBN10 9004438149
- ISBN13 9789004438149
- Publish Date 27 November 2020 (first published 9 November 2020)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country NL
- Imprint Brill
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 430
- Language English
- URL brill.com/product_id4064981