Księga Mądrości wobec greckich kultów misteryjnych

Abstract

This article provides an analysis of occurrence of the basic concepts connected with Greek mystery cults in the Book of Wisdom: μνστης and its female equivalent mu,stij, teleth, and the derivative as well as θίασος. These terms have been applicable in a double context. The first one criticizes pagan rituals as a sign of idolatry and connects them with the sins if the Canaanites who were thrown out from the Promised Land due to their sins. The hagiographer suggests the only true initiation into Devine Wisdom instead of the pagan rituals. Clinging to the Wisdom brings the same fruit that was desired by the pagans who were initiated into worldly happiness and safe future in the beyond. The article presents some elements of the context in which the Book of Wisdom started to exist and problems that the Egyptian diaspora encountered. Simultaneously, it recognizes a creative application of foreign religious ideas in the presentation of the ideas of Judaism, that shows the author’s courage and openness.