Eschatology in Antiquity: Forms and Functions

Routledge, 2021.

Under the general editorship: H. Marlow, K. Pollmann, H. van Noorden

This collection of essays explores the rhetoric and practices surrounding ancient notions of eschatology, such as views on life after death and the end of the world, including the fate of the individual, apocalyptic speculation and hope for cosmological renewal, in a wide range of societies from Ancient Mesopotamia to the Byzantine era.

The 42 essays by leading scholars in each field explore the rich spectrum of ways in which eschatological understanding can be expressed, and for which purposes it can be used. Readers will gain new insight into the historical contexts, details, functions and impact of eschatological ideas and imagery in ancient texts and material culture from the twenty-fifth century BCE to the ninth century CE. Traditionally, the study of "eschatology" (and related concepts) has been pursued mainly by scholars of Jewish and Christian scripture. By broadening the disciplinary scope but remaining within the clearly defined geographical milieu of the Mediterranean, this volume enables its readers to note comparisons and contrasts, as well as exchanges of thought and transmission of eschatological ideas across Antiquity. Cross-referencing, high quality illustrations and extensive indexing contribute to a rich resource on a topic of contemporary interest and relevance.

Eschatology in Antiquity is aimed at readers from a wide range of academic disciplines, as well as non-specialists including seminary students and religious leaders. The primary audience will comprise researchers in relevant fields including Biblical Studies, Classics and Ancient History, Ancient Philosophy, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Art History, Late Antiquity, Byzantine Studies and Cultural Studies. Care has been taken to ensure that the essays are accessible to undergraduates and those without specialist knowledge of particular subject areas.

Chapters

Egyptian Oracles and the Afterlife

Loktionov A., , in: Eschatology in Antiquity: Forms and Functions.: Routledge, 2021. Ch. 3 P. 49–62.

This contribution surveys the key eschatological works from Ancient Egypt, spanning the two millennia from the Middle Kingdom to Roman Egypt. It highlights key themes present across these compositions, including the cyclical nature of destruction and rebirth, the perceived role of foreign invaders in triggering social collapse and the link between the conduct of rulers ...

Added: November 23, 2021

Keywords: эсхатология, древний мир, ancient philosophy, античная философия, eschatology, the ancient world