This concise introduction to the interpretation of the book of Exodus encourages in-depth study of the text and deliberate grappling with related theological and historical questions by providing a cr
This concise introduction to the interpretation of the book of Exodus encourages in-depth study of the text and deliberate grappling with related theological and historical questions by providing a critical assessment of key interpreters and interpretative debates. It draws on a range of methodological approaches (author-, text-, and reader-centered) and reflects the growing scholarly attention to the reception history of biblical texts, increasingly viewed as a vital aspect of interpretation rather than an optional extra.
Throughout Discovering Exodus, Ralph Hawkins gives strategies for reading the book of Exodus, including archaeological criticism. He also reviews key issues raised by Exodus and connects these issues to questions of how this important Old Testament book should be interpreted today.
Review of Biblical Literature
“An accomplished work that achieves a remarkable feat of compression and completeness.”
Review of Biblical Literature
“Hawkins demonstrates that he is well-informed about the research on Exodus, so that uninitiated students can learn much from him. The volume is written in a sympathetic, courteous style that quietly addresses the different readings of Exodus and does not polemically denounce views with which the author does not agree.”
Interpretation
“Discovering Exodus is best read as a topical introduction of the contents of Exodus in relation to its ancient background, alongside a survey of its reception history from a Western (especially U.S.-American), Protestant Christian perspective.”
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Ralph K. Hawkins is director of the program in Religion and professor of biblical and archaeological studies at Averett University, Danville, Virginia. He is also the author of How Israel Became a People.
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