Double Marginality in the Context of the Southern Hemisphere

Abstract

This chapter applies postcolonial and locality methodologies to a biblical interpretation of the Jacob narrative. First, building on the work of David J. A. Clines and Fernando F. Segovia, “locality” here is that of immigrants to the southern hemisphere. Their perspectives contrast with those of northern Euro-Americans who have dominated the field of biblical interpretation. Second, a localized Australian perspective decolonizes the conventional reading of the Jacob narrative. In so doing, it contends that the narrative of Jacob was written under the influence of the imperialistic viewpoint, picturing vividly the life of immigrants who cannot fully assert and claim their personal rights. More important, it argues for a God who hates the misuse of worldly power, not just by the corrupt kings of the empire but also by his chosen people.