CHAPTER 2: ELEAZAR, THE DEACON WHO CROSSED THE MIRROR

CHAPTER 2: ELEAZAR, THE DEACON WHO CROSSED Narrator: Ibn Gabirol (Shelomó ibn Gabirol, 1021-1058/70) Direction&Production: Javier Bona López This chapter tells the extraordinary story of Bodo, a deacon from the Carolingian court of Aachen in the 9th century, who abandoned his Christian faith to convert to Judaism for the love of a Jewish woman from Zaragoza. The narration, by the poet and philosopher Ibn Gabirol, immerses us in a journey of radical transformation, exploring themes of faith, love, identity, and coexistence in the Zaragoza of that era. The chapter is divided into several key sections: 10 Bodo in Aachen: Describes Bodo's life as a respected cleric at the court of Emperor Louis the Pious, surrounded by luxury, power, and knowledge. 11 The Betrayal: In a dark turn, Bodo sells his fellow pilgrims into slavery in Narbonne, an act that marks his break with the past. 12 Arrival in Zaragoza: Bodo arrives in Saraqusta in 839, a vibrant and multicultural frontier city. 13 The Encounter: He meets Miriam, a Jewish woman who introduces him to the Jewish faith and culture, and with whom he falls deeply in love. 14 The Conversion: Bodo decides to convert to Judaism, adopting the Hebrew name Eleazar. The rituals of the mikveh (purification bath) and brit milah (circumcision) are detailed. 15 The Wedding: The Jewish wedding ceremony and the nuptial banquet are described with great sensory detail, symbolizing Eleazar's union with Miriam and his new community. 16 The Correspondence with Álvaro de Córdoba: The intense epistolary debate between Eleazar and Álvaro, another convert, on theology and faith is narrated. 17 Life in the Jewry: Explores Eleazar's life as a respected member of the Jewish community of Zaragoza. 18 Final Reflection: Ibn Gabirol reflects on Eleazar's legacy as a bridge between two worlds, a symbol of the search for truth and the transformative power of love. Narrator: Ibn Gabirol (Shelomó ibn Gabirol, 1021-1058/70) Direction&Production: Javier Bona López