Old Testament Wisdom Literature - by Craig G Bartholomew & Ryan P O'Dowd (Paperback)

About the Book

Craig G. Bartholomew and Ryan P. O'Dowd provide an informed introduction to the Old Testament wisdom books Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job. Establishing the books in the context of ancient Near Eastern wisdom traditions and literature, the authors move beyond the scope of typical introductions to discuss the theological and hermeneutical implications of this literature.

Book Synopsis

The books of Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes are rooted in the order created by the one true God. Their steady gaze penetrates to the very nature of created reality and leads us toward peace and human flourishing. Craig Bartholomew and Ryan O'Dowd tune our ears to hear once again Lady Wisdom calling in the streets.Old Testament Wisdom Literature provides an informed introduction to the Old Testament wisdom books Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Job. Establishing the books in the context of ancient Near Eastern wisdom traditions and literature, the authors move beyond the scope of typical introductions to discuss the theological and hermeneutical implications of this literature.

Review Quotes

"For an introductory level book, there are rich pickings to be found in Old Testament Wisdom Literature! The tone of the book is accessible enough to make it an appealing and stimulating experience for any 'reading Christian, ' but there are also depths here to engage even the most seasoned student of the Old Testament's Wisdom literature. The key to this book's success is in its title--it is truly a theological introduction, and this sets it apart from other introductory volumes to the Wisdom literature. Careful explanation of critical issues regarding Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes is followed by close readings of specific texts and consideration of their lasting theological significance. And the concluding chapters on Jesus as the Wisdom of God, and the theology of the Wisdom literature both in the original and in today's context are, quite simply, masterful. If you want to 'get wisdom' (Proverbs 4:5), then this book will be a tremendously helpful companion for the journey."

"The book's strengths, including its rigorous exegesis, faithfulness to the Biblical text, readability, recommended reading lists, thorough indices, and accessibility and applicability to Christians across the spectrum--laity, pastors, and scholars--make this an essential volume for studying the Old Testament Wisdom Literature."

"Within their discussion of aesthetics, Bartholomew and O'Dowd argue for the value and role of the arts. They demonstrate how wisdom unites heart and mind, as well as how poetry is a primary vehicle for conveying wisdom. Although written for pastors and seminary students, this book is accessible for anyone interested in Wisdom literature."

About the Author

Craig G. Bartholomew is director of the Kirby Laing Centre for Christian Ethics at Tyndale House, Cambridge, England. He has written and edited numerous books, including Contours of the Kuyperian Tradition, Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics, Beyond the Modern Age (with Bob Goudzwaard), The Drama of Scripture (with Michael Goheen), and a commentary on Ecclesiastes.

Ryan P. O'Dowd is pastor of Bread of Life Anglican Church of Ithaca, New York, and senior fellow at Chesterton House, Cornell University. He also holds adjunct faculty positions at Gordon College and The King's College in New York City. He is the author of The Wisdom of Torah.