What did you notice in the second half of Leviticus? Was there anything different about these chapters compared to the ones you read and discussed last week? Any similarities?
What questions come up for you as you read this week’s text? Is there anything about what you just read, or learned in the video discussion, that surprised or bothered you?
While discussing the “scapegoat” in Leviticus. 16, Dr. Collins brought up a quote from Paul Ricoeur: “the symbol gives rise to thought.” Although sending one’s sins away on a goat might not make you a “better person,” Collins wonders whether this ritual could still have had an impact on individuals’ behavior and attitudes in ancient Israel. How would you respond to Dr. Collins? Do you find this idea compelling? Why or why not?
Applying the Text:
There are many different ways in which interpreters can choose to respond to harmful and traumatic content found in the Bible such as Leviticus. 18:22. For you personally, what approach do you prefer as a modern interpreter of these texts? (e.g. attempt to Resolve/explain? Ignore/reject? Grapple/process? Other?)
Dr. Baden clarified that our primary concern today should not be “what does the Bible say” but rather “what do we decide to do with what the Bible says.” Does this sentiment resonate for your use of scripture in our modern day? Does this idea apply more with some books, like Leviticus, than others, like a Gospel text?