Paul and the Politics of Diaspora (Paul in Critical Contexts)

It is a commonplace today that Paul was a Jew of the Hellenistic Diaspora, but how does that observation help us to understand his thinking, his self-identification, and his practice? Ronald Charles applies the insights of contemporary diaspora studies to address much-debated questions about Paul€s identity as a diaspora Jew, his complicated relationship with a highly symbolized €œhomeland,€ the motives of his daily work, and the ambivalence of his rhetoric. Charles argues for understanding a number of important aspects of Paul€s identity and work, including the ways his interactions with others were conditioned, by his diaspora space, his self-understanding, and his experience €œamong the nations.€ Diaspora space is a key concept that allows Charles to show how Paul€s travels and the collection project in particular can be read as a transcultural narrative. Understanding the dynamics of diaspora also allows Charles to bring new light to the conflict at Antioch (Galatians 1€“2), Paul€s relationships with the Gentiles in Galatia, and the fraught relationship with leaders in Jerusalem.