נתן נפשׁוֹ: Paradigms of Self-Sacrifice in Early Judaism and Christianity

Mekilta de Rabbi Ishmael presents Moses and David as key figures whose willingness to sacrifice themselves on behalf of Torah, Israel, the Temple, and justice was exemplary. Attaching their names to these symbols ensured memory and continuity in the face of difficult circumstances. The Sages further suggested that being faithful meant all Israelites' willingness likewise to give themselves. This may have been a subtle response to the Christian communities who were appropriating the symbols of Torah associated with the redemptive process.