Did Marcionites and Monastic Christians Know of "A Christian Gerizim and Ebal" on the Road Between Jericho and Jerusalem?

The fascinating intersection of biblical geography and early Christian traditions unveils the potential for a "Christian Gerizim and Ebal" near Jericho. Traditionally, Mount Gerizim and Ebal are situated near Shechem, but historical sources and theological interpretations suggest an alternative location that might have influenced early Christian and Marcionite practices.

Samaritan and Early Christian Beliefs

1. Samaritan Tradition: The Samaritans believed that Mount Gerizim reached up to Paradise and was central to their worship. According to the Samaritan interpretation of Deuteronomy and the Book of Joshua, significant events occurred around Mount Gerizim, which they placed near Shechem (modern Nablus).

2. Marcionite Gospel: The Marcionite gospel recounts Jesus descending to the place where Adam was created, specifically on the road between Jericho and Jerusalem. This suggests a symbolic connection between creation and Christ's redemptive descent, highlighting an essential theological motif for Marcionites.

Jerome’s Alternative Location

Jerome’s Observations: Jerome, a prominent early Christian scholar, proposed an alternative location for Mounts Gerizim and Ebal near Jericho. He noted two peaks near Wady Kelt, a ravine west of Jericho, as the true Gerizim and Ebal. Jerome argued against the Samaritan tradition, citing the proximity of these mountains to Jericho as evidence that they could not be near Shechem.

Eusebius and the Onomasticon: Eusebius, in his "Onomasticon," also places Gerizim and Ebal near Jericho. He contends that these mountains must be near Jericho because the voices calling blessings and curses could not be heard from the distant mountains near Shechem.

Archaeological and Geographical Correlations

Wady Kelt and Monastic Sites: The Wady Kelt area, described by Lieutenant Conder and other explorers, is a deep gorge with prominent peaks on either side. These peaks, known locally as Tuweil el 'Akabeh and Nuseib 'Aweishtreh, align with Jerome’s description of the mountains. This area, filled with caves and monastic settlements, suggests a historical and spiritual significance.

Copper Scroll and the Dead Sea Scrolls: The Copper Scroll from Qumran mentions hiding places for treasures near a "Mount Gerizim," believed to be near Jericho. This reinforces the notion of an alternative sacred location recognized by certain Jewish and early Christian groups.

Implications for Early Christian and Marcionite Practices

Theological Significance: If early Christians and Marcionites accepted this alternative location, it might reflect a broader theological and geographical reinterpretation. The idea of a "Christian Gerizim" near Jericho aligns with Marcionite beliefs about Jesus' descent and highlights the fluidity of sacred geography in early Christian thought.

Dosithean Influence: There are indications that Dosithean Samaritans, a sect contemporary with early Christians, might have held similar beliefs about a sacred site near Jericho. This could suggest shared traditions or mutual influences between these groups.

Conclusion

The proposal of a "Christian Gerizim and Ebal" near Jericho, supported by Jerome, Eusebius, and archaeological findings, presents a compelling case for reevaluating early Christian sacred geography. This reinterpretation sheds light on the dynamic nature of early Christian beliefs and their interactions with contemporary Jewish and Samaritan traditions. It invites further exploration into how these geographical and theological shifts influenced the development of early Christian and Marcionite practices.

References:

1. Jerome, Onomasticon
2. Eusebius, Onomasticon
3. Copper Scroll, Qumran
4. Lieutenant Conder, Tent Work in Palestine
5. Jerome Murphy-O'Connor, Revue Biblique
6. Epiphanius, Panarion

For more detailed exploration, you can refer to these historical texts and recent archaeological studies to deepen your understanding of this fascinating topic.