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From Rebuke to Consolation considers the constellation of texts related to the lectionary cycle for the Ninth of Av season. It demonstrates that the lectionary cycle articulates a theology of consolation which is not present in the constituent biblical texts. The related midrashic texts and liturgical poems echo and further develop this theology which the targum, which does not relate solely to the texts in their liturgical context, does not. The book explores the synagogue as a context for the public interpretation of biblical texts and as a site for popular rabbinic interpretation.

Elsie R. Stern is Assistant Director for Public Programs at the Center for Advanced Judaic Studies, University of Pennsylvania.