The "Kingdom of Priests" in the Book of Jubilees

Abstract

This thesis explores the concept of the "kingdom of priests," as presented by the Second Century BCE text, The Book of Jubilees. It is argued that this phrase, drawn from Exod 19, has been interpreted by the author of Jubilees to mean that any male member of Israel may potentially serve as a priest. This priestly role, however, cannot be actualized due to the sinfulness of Israel, particularly in its association with and acceptance of gentiles and gentile practices. The model of a priestly Israel is presented in Jubilees through its portrayals of the major figures of biblical history as priests. This thesis will explore these priestly portrayals, with special attention given to Adam, in order to demonstrate that Jubilees believed all of Israel to have priestly potential.