Wisdom at Qumran : A Form-Critical Analysis of the Admonitions in 4QInstruction

This study provides background on wisdom forms, the key Qumran sectarian texts, and wisdom studies related to the Dead Sea Scrolls. 4QInstruction includes poetic discourses, hymnic material, and short wisdom sayings and admonitions. A major focus is placed on the admonitions, which are discussed in terms of their structure, wisdom forms, and setting. The admonitions are expressed in biblical wisdom forms, showing a familiarity with and acceptance of traditional Hebrew wisdom, including a focus on traditional themes. Yet, when read from the sectarian perspective, 4QInstruction reinforces the guidelines and theology of the key Dead Sea Scroll documents. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS CONTENTS ABBREVIATIONS 1. INTRODUCTION 2. THE FORMS OF WISDOM LITERATURE 3. THE SECTARIAN RULES 4. INTRODUCTION TO 4QINSTRUCTION 5. THE WISDOM FORMS IN THE ADMONITIONS OF 4QINSTRUCTION 6. FORM CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE ADMONITIONS IN 4QINSTRUCTION 7. CONCLUSIONS BIBLIOGRAPHY