Abstract
In this article, I show how a deeper understanding of Lived Theology can enrich discussions about historical dance practices. I elaborate on the teachings of Philo of Alexandria (c. 20 BCE–50) and how his descriptions of dancing indicate that such practices may be understood as worship and contemplation. I further suggest that dancing in Philo’s texts, especially On the Contemplative Life, can be understood as an exegetical practice. I describe how a supersessionist logic insensitive to traditions of Lived Theology has operated in the theological discourse on Philo and thus has been unable to recognise these dimensions of the described dancing.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 345-369 |
Journal | Postmedieval |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 2-3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sept 2023 |
MoE publication type | A1 Journal article-refereed |
Keywords
- Dance History
- Theology and the Arts
- Contemplative studies
- Philo of Alexandria