DISSERTAZIONI DI DOTTORATO
2024-2025

MÁTIKOVÁ Anna

Strategies of Ambiguity in Hab 1,1–2,5.

Mod.: Prof. R.P. Peter DUBOVSKÝ, S.J.

The dissertation examines Hab 1,1–2,5 (in Hebrew and in Greek), focusing on textual features that engender divergent solutions coexisting within a reading process. It is argued that the text continuously places readers at interpretative crossroads without decisive evidence favouring one option: A vaguely segmented dialogic interaction overlaps with a dimly suggested monologic complaint. The overtly announced foreign invasion mingles with covert hints to the invader’s destruction. Some affirmations contain possible, yet not definitive irony. The ongoing tension between competing solutions leads to the surmise that such pervasive ambiguity is unlikely to be merely a by-product of a complex redactional processes.

 It is proposed, that while the Hebrew text overtly depicts the Chaldean invasion as YHWH’s response to evil, it also covertly undermines the concept of divine retribution as an explanation of adverse social circumstances. As the retribution principle was widely accepted in all major cultures of the ANE, its contester(s) might have criticism or ostracism. Furthermore, no single school of thought or theological system can claim a definitive and exhaustive explanation of the presence of evil in human history. Ambiguity thus likely serves precautionary purposes transferring the responsibility for the disclosure of an alternative, or unconventional message, to the readers.

 The Greek translation reveals a mix of three approaches regarding the Hebrew original’s ambiguity. First, the original ambiguity is maintained to a certain extent. Second, some intricate instances are disambiguated in favour of a specific solution. Third, the target language introduces its own ambiguity in certain places. Notable differences occur especially where Ambakoum hints at the aggressor’s eventual defeat. The Greek translation conveys these hints more persistently, emphasizing divine participation in the final positive outcome. This suggests that while the Hebrew Habakkuk reflects tension between an officially promoted theodicy and dissenting scribal circles within the same national group, the Greek translation's subtle undercurrents indicate opposition to a foreign aggressor. Greek Ambakoum thus reflects new historical circumstances and a different social milieu than the Hebrew original. Unlike the Hebrew text, where the figure responsible for authoring its lines is likely to expect criticism from within the same social and national group, the prophetic persona hiding between the lines of the Greek Ambakoum is more likely to be ostracised by an intimidating foreign power.