Focusing on the narrative of Abraham in Genesis 11-25, Joseph Blenkinsopp provides a discursive commentary that highlights the literary and theological depth of the story. He addresses key themes such as God's promises, Isaac's sacrifice, and the significance of Ishmael. Each chapter includes a "Filling in the Gaps" section that examines historical interpretations from Jewish, Christian, and Islamic perspectives. The epilogue presents Blenkinsopp's reflections on Abraham's role in early Christianity, offering readers a profound understanding of this pivotal figure.
Focusing on the humanity of Jesus, the narrative presents Him as a powerful figure with a strong mission and deep compassion for marginalized individuals. Unique among the Gospels, it includes distinctive parables and offers a different account of Jesus's birth compared to Matthew. Luke's conclusion emphasizes Jesus's ascension rather than His death or resurrection. The Gospel combines historical and theological perspectives, illustrating how God engages with humanity through Jesus, reflecting the doctrine of incarnation.
The exploration of Ezekiel delves into its complex structure and the unique forms of speech employed throughout the prophetic text. The introduction provides insights into the challenges of interpreting prophetic literature and outlines the compilation of Ezekiel. Additionally, it examines the author's background and the context in which the messages were delivered, offering a comprehensive understanding of this significant biblical work.
Focusing on the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, this volume offers an authoritative examination within the Old Testament Library series. It features insights from internationally recognized scholars, providing fresh perspectives on significant themes and issues in Old Testament study. The work includes detailed commentaries and surveys, making it a valuable resource for both academic and personal exploration of these biblical texts.
Focusing on the diverse interpretations of Isaiah, Joseph Blenkinsopp's work delves into its prophetic traditions from Malachi to early Christianity. He examines Isaiah's roles as a man of God, social critic, and apocalyptic seer, highlighting its significance in Jewish sectarianism and among early Christians. Key themes such as exile, the remnant of Israel, martyrdom, and the servant of the Lord are explored. This interdisciplinary study will engage scholars and readers interested in the profound impact of Isaiah's prophetic visions.
The book explores the connections between early Judaism and the non-Jewish world, emphasizing the significance of the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem as a pivotal moment. Joseph Blenkinsopp contends that this event marked the collapse of the Judean political and religious systems, including monarchy and priesthood, which had upheld the state for centuries. By examining this earlier period, the author seeks to provide a deeper understanding of how early Judaism was shaped and perceived in its historical context.
Focusing on the historical context and theological themes, this volume delves into the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, examining the return of the Israelites from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. It highlights key figures, such as Ezra the scribe and Nehemiah the governor, and their roles in restoring faith and community. The analysis provides insights into the challenges faced during this period and emphasizes the importance of covenant renewal and social reform in the post-exilic Jewish community.
The revised and enlarged edition delves into the prophetic books of the Old Testament, incorporating the latest research findings. It provides in-depth discussions and new insights, particularly focusing on Isaiah and other prophets, making it a significant resource for scholars and students of biblical studies.
Offers a commentary on "Genesis" 1-11, the so-called 'Primeval History' in which the account of creation is given. The author works from the perspective of acknowledging the text's literary integrity as an authored work, rather than focusing simply on the its background in various sources (whilst of course paying due attention to those sources).
This study contributes to the new approach to the problem of the authority of the Bible and religious authority in general known as canon criticism, and will at the same time promote better understanding and cooperation between Christian and Jewish biblical scholars. The author considers the Hebrew canon, and especially the juxtaposition of law and prophecy within it, not as a component of Christian canon, as is usually done, but as a historical and theological problem focusing on the issue of religious and sociological implications of the claims that underlie the formation of the tripartite canon, particularly the claims staked by the authority of the Bible and how this bears on the self-understanding of Judaism--and Christianity. Joseph Blekinsopp has traveled and studied extensively in the Middle East and Europe. Among his many books are A Sketchbook of Biblical Theology, Sexuality and the Christian tradition, Gibeon and Israel, and Scripture Discussion Commentary: Pentateuch. He is presently professor of theology at the University of Notre Dame. Prophecy and Canon is the third publication based on research sponsored by the University of Notre Dame Center for the Study of Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity.
