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Old Testament prophylaxis regulation of Hebrew veterinary and human medicine

Saša Zavrtnik ; Geotehnički fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Hrvatska
Damir Žubčić ; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Hrvatska

Abstract

This study provides an overview of the Old Testament prophylaxis regulation of Hebrew veterinary and human medicine. Hebrews, primarily as a nomadic nation of shepherds, were closely connected with animals and with one another in their daily life. To protect their livelihood and health, they prescribed instructions on food, the role of blood, hygiene and handling the sick for the protection of community. To examine these laws, the biblical Old Testament record, particularly Pentateuch – the first five books of the Bible, Hebrew Law, was used. The third book of Moses – Leviticus was mostly quoted. It represents most of the laws by which Hebrews directed their life, thus special attention was dedicated to these laws. Hebrew priests were mediators between God and His people, every individual, and so
they also played a role as physicians. They recognized diseases and ordered the isolation, i.e. quarantine, of a person, and would re- examine the person again after a certain time period. The oldest form of quarantine was found among the Hebrews. The role of blood as a vitally important liquid of life was also described. Its consumption was forbidden, which served also to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. In the records analysed, a high degree of awareness and responsibility to God and His laws is emphasized, and accordingly also towards people and animals. Each law had a deeper spiritual, ritual component, but was also practical and applicable in the daily life of the individual.

Keywords

veterinary and human medicine; Hebrew law; blood; hygiene and quarantine; bronze serpent

Hrčak ID:

222636

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/222636

Publication date:

26.7.2017.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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