documentary find wows scholars

By Diogenes ( articles ) | Jan 26, 2004

A partially damaged papyrus manuscript recently discovered in Bethsaida sheds new light on first century epistolary practice. The translation is still provisional.

162 Via Media
Jerusalem

7th Abib, 0033

Dear Rabbi Bar-Joseph,

Thank you for your letter of the 3rd inst. regarding the Greater Palestine Common Ground Initiative. As always we welcome your input. I must say, however, that your comments reflect a serious misreading of the document "Called to be Canaanite" and neglect the efforts of those thinking women and men who are, in a very real sense, desirous to embrace the full richness and diversity of contemporary Yahwism.

None of us, we must admit, has a monopoly on the truth. Great damage to the spirit of unity has been caused in recent years by individuals who stigmatize those with whom they disagree as "hypocrites." Labeling others risks aggravating rather than healing the divisions among us.

Regarding your own ministry, I want to affirm you in your valuable theological insights. Yet I do not hear in your letter a respect for those who have theologies different from your own. Is it not mete, after all, that one doctrine should die for the sake of the people? That a prominent member of your own congregation has requested a copy of our Pastoral Implementation Plan (30 shekels + SASE) is, I must say, a sign of hope. Praying that this coming Passover will be a truly special one for you and yours, I remain

Seamlessly yours,

+Caiaphas Bar Nun

P.S. Our records show that we are not in receipt of your tithes on mint and cumin for the week of Nisan 12-19. Kindly rectify the anomaly.