Flipping the Script in Phil. 2.6b: Setting ἁρπαγµός in the Religious Context of First Century Philippi

This article introduces new evidence that sheds light on Paul’s use of ἁρπαγμός in Phil. 2.6b. This word has been much discussed, and it is sometimes claimed that Paul intends it to evoke a contrast between Christ and Greco-Roman gods and rulers, yet the evidence offered in service of this claim is limited. After surveying relevant approaches to ἁρπαγμός, I examine texts in which words related to ἁρπαγμός are used to describe divine figures important in Philippi. I argue, utilizing concepts from cognitive science, that the abundance of texts describing divine figures involved in violent and consumptive behaviour represent a cognitive script that Paul invokes in Phil. 2.6b. Paul’s use of ἁρπαγμός invokes this script, which addresses his audience’s previous experience with divine figures and contrasts them with Christ. This contrast has significant implications for how members of the community view power dynamics within the church and vis-à-vis Christ.