A Priestly Nation

Abstract

chapter 5 demonstrates that Julian partially draws on Jews to model his highly innovative priestly program. Jewish priests exemplify the priestly life Julian lays out for his Hellenic priests in ep. 89b, and they execute laws laden with theurgic wisdom. Specifically, their observance of the dietary laws and consumption of consecrated food exemplify characteristics of the pagan holy man upon whom Julian models his priesthood. In the Letter to the Community of the Jews, Julian hints that he plans to restore Jewish priests to positions of leadership. The supreme standing of Jewish priests in a restored temple model Julian’s conception of ideal Hellenic leadership. Further, Jews offer Hellenes a model for the financing of priests, as Jewish priests receive the right shoulder of every sacrifice.