Modern Interpretations of The Bible II

During my last post I discussed mysticism in the current incarnations of the Jewish Bible in film. We will now discuss this phenomenon in television. 

In the past few years American artists have created many thoughtful and not-so thoughtful versions of the biblical text. The reason I call them artists and not scriptwriters or producers is because I know how difficult it is to portray ancient truths to modern audiences. This challenge takes a great amount of creativity and technical ability. We will focus on the most recent incarnation of the biblical narrative.

"Of Kings and Prophets" blew me away when I watch its pilot, but confused its purpose during the second episode. What is striking it is how the raw nature of the Bible is finally depicted in a show. As a fan of the first season of Spartacus, I can see how the ancient times without modern day morality would be difficult to religious people to watch. But the way that modern audiences can handle roman savagery, they should be able to swallow a show that is faithful to the intrigue and tribal conflict depicted in the Tanak. Most audiences thought the show was too violent and too sexual, proving they have not read the book of Samuel. How can Jewish mysticism helps us through this conflict of morality versus accuracy in relation to the Biblical text? Are we allowed any artistic license when communicating our religious tradition as we try to connect with people's hearts other then their minds?

Traditional Judaism would consider this show exploitative while more modern Jewish groups would consider it thought provoking. I consider it a challenge to my mystical understanding of the sacred text. I can look up the traditional view of Saul and David. And share it with my readers, what I really want to do is consider how it affects me spiritually to see my religious heroes as flawed men. They not only treat each other with love and hatred but show a contrast between western ideas of father and sons rivalry. No Oedipus conflict but compassion and love from David to Saul the man who was hunting him down. I find this very mystical and powerful something only a TV show can remind me of.