Lecture on Moshe and Translation of Biblical Texts

Introduction

• Discussion of Moshe (Moses), a central figure in the Torah.
• Focus on Hebrew words and their meanings.

Hebrew Words and Their Meanings

• El: Hebrew word composed of Aleph and Lamed.
  • Meaning: The strong one of authority.
  • Symbolism: Ox horns representing strength; Shepherd's staff representing authority.
• Analogy with modern symbols:
  • Crown and scepter in royalty = horns and staff.

Moshe's Authority

• Moshe as the leader of Israel.
• Biblical Reference: "See, I make you as God (Elohim) to Pharaoh."
  • Elohim implies having horns and a scepter.
  • Moshe was given a rod or staff (mateh).

Horns vs. Rays of Light

• Examination of translations regarding Moshe's appearance.
• Hebrew text suggests Moshe had horns, not just rays of light.
  • Word: Koran (meaning horns)
  • Misinterpretation by translators led to 'rays of light.'

Translators' Influence

• Critique of translators for "smoothing out" the text.
  • Translators erase Hebraic meanings and understandings.
• Example: Michelangelo's sculpture of Moshe depicting horns.

Cultural Context

• Greek vs Hebrew understanding:
  • Greek: Image, picture, appearance.
  • Hebrew: Function of symbols like horns.

Analysis of Text

• Importance of understanding the original Hebrew text.
• Challenge to students to dig deeper into translations:
  • Examine Hebrew words and meanings.
  • Analyze why the text says what it does.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to study and understand the original language to grasp the full meaning of biblical stories.
• Thank you note to the audience for participation.

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These notes summarize the key points and discussions from the lecture on Moshe, focusing on the translation and interpretation of Hebrew text in biblical stories.