The Theoretical Symbolism of Eruvin: A Model of Dual-Identity and Sacred Space

<p><em>Eruvin</em> are an innovative solution to the logistical “problem” of carrying on the weekly Sabbath. Boundaries that symbolically extend the walls of private homes into the public sphere, <em>eruvin</em> allow Orthodox Jews to carry objects outside of their homes on the Sabbath, a seemingly simple act that would otherwise be prohibited. Constructed according to intricate Rabbinic specifications,<em> eruvin</em> use existing architectural elements such as walls, train tracks, roadways and telephone wires, as well as natural features like rivers to create a continuous boundary. This paper will examine the theoretical significance of creating such a space. My argument maintains that beyond the functional application for observant Jews, <em>eruvin</em> strengthen the bonds of Jewish communities while subsequently allowing for the full integration of the same Jewish community into the majority “mainstream” culture. Further, they represent a challenge to western notions of space, most emphatically the concept that physical space can hold more than a singular meaning; the result is that the <em>eruv</em> becomes a model for “territoriality without sovereignty,” or a microcosm of symbolic Jewish geography while simultaneously being a part of the American cultural landscape.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

M.A.

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters Thesis

Year dc:date.available

2012

Author dc:creator

• Hanson, Liza Stoltz

Contributors dc:contributor

• Gregory A. Robbins, Ph.D.
• Alison Schofield
• Sarah Pessin

• Eruvin
• Sabbath
• Jewish community
• Rabbinic innovation
• Jewish Studies
• Religion

Statement dc:rights

• <p>Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.</p>

Language dc:language

en

Repository record dc:identifier

https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd/268

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.du.edu:etd-1267