When the Fabulous Is Holy
When the Fabulous Is Holy
Parashat Tetzaveh (Exodus 27:20–30:10)
This chapter highlights the queerly characteristics of sacred garment and the sumptuous animal sacrifices in the readings of Parashat Tetzaveh of Exodus. The text instructs that the sacred adornments—a breastpiece, an ephod (an elaborate embroidered garment), a robe, a headdress—features opulent appearances. For instance, the robes should have pomegranates and tiny golden bells that make tinkling sound when the wearer walks. Moreover, the parasha commands that blood from the sacrificed animal be dabbed poured and sprinkled on every side of the altar. Given that Israelites do not normally wear such finery nor carry out such routine, the extravagance of the garment and the rituals resonate concept of performativity—a notion that challenges the idea that identity is “inherent” in a person or group.
Keywords: queerly characteristics, animal sacrifices, performativity, sacred garment, Parashat Tetzaveh, Exodus
NYU Press Scholarship Online requires a subscription or purchase to access the full text of books within the service. Public users can however freely search the site and view the abstracts and keywords for each book and chapter.
Please, subscribe or login to access full text content.
If you think you should have access to this title, please contact your librarian.
To troubleshoot, please check our FAQs, and if you can't find the answer there, please contact us.
