ABSTRACT
Like the previous two chapters, this chapter claims that the theory of differing relationships between rabbis and non-rabbis in Palestine and Babylonia helps explain significant aspects of rabbinic Bible commentary. We analyze statements about Ahitofel, King David’s adviser, and argue that Palestinian rabbis depict him positively because of their greater involvement with nonrabbinic Jews, and their relatively weak position in society. Palestinian rabbis view Ahitofel as a rabbinic sage, and worry that if they depict Ahitofel unfavorably they might diminish the stature of all rabbis in the eyes of nonrabbinic Jews. Palestinian rabbis worry that non-rabbinic Jews might reason as follows: “If knowledge of Torah is compatible with condemnation by God, then what is so special about the rabbis? Why should rabbis be given special respect or be counted among the leaders of society?”
