Die sosiohistoriese konteks van diathêkê in Galasiërs 3:15–18

Abstract

The overall aim of the research is to construct the socio–historical context of diaqh/k/kh in Galatians 3:15–18 and to understand Paul’s argument to the Galatians better. The construction of the socio–historical context of diaqh/k/kh in Galatians 3:15–18, and of Paul and the first addressees is necessary for a valid construction of the socio–historical context of diaqh/k/kh. The determination of the context contributes to a valid interpretation of Paul’s argument in Galatians 3:15–18. The current trend in the research of Galatians 3:15–18, and on the diaqh/k/kh is addressed. The judicial trends in the first century’s Greek, Roman, and Jewish judicial systems are discussed. All the customs in these cultures are changeable and do not fit the requirements of the criteria that Paul has set up in Galatians 3:15. The customs for entering into the covenant in the Old Testament are researched because "covenant" is a possible translation of diaqh/k/kh. The research subsequently discusses the customs on inheritance laws in the New Testament and the use of diaqh/k/kh in the New Testament. The rhetorical argument of Paul in Galatians is discussed to determine which sociohistorical context would fit diaqh/k/kh the best. The research concludes with a construction of the sociohistirical context of diaqh/k/kh in Galatians 3:15–18. The conclusion is that the covenant between human parties is the best possible context for diaqh/k/kh in Galatians 3:15–18. It makes most sense in Paul’s argument to the Galatians.