Liberating Jonah: Forming an Ethics of Reconciliation

by Miguel A de la Torre

Our world today, inhabited by both oppressors and oppressed, is in need of reconciliation--between different ethnic backgrounds, socio-economic levels, and gender and sexual orientations. "Liberating Jonah" describes the significant role that can be played by the underrepresented and oppressed as instruments of reconciliation today. Accessible language makes this book appropriate for undergraduate classrooms and church study groups.

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, The United States Of America, Religion, Justice

178 pages, Paperback

First published October 20, 2007

Reviews

[Shane Moore · Rating 1 out of 5]

My interpretation of this book's central premise was that the work toward reconciling oppressed people with their oppressors is the responsibility of the oppressed. Honestly I wasn't convinced. I don't agree that the wronged parties should have to initiate any efforts towards reconciliation.

I thought the author's perspective on the book of Jonah was interesting, but his attempts to apply its principles to modern (specifically US) society were vague and unsatisfying. His dismissal of existing work to address inequality and injustice stuck me as callous.

Though thought-provoking, I didn't particularly appreciate the author's writing style. I think it was often dryer and more academic than it had to be. There was also far too much repitition of the same points without significant clarification or elaboration.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fascinating and indicting book for North American and Northern Hemisphere Christians, especially, which is a call to action, but it is an important read for people who might not even consider themselves religious or "Christian." Miguel De La Torré does an amazing job in bringing home the message of the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament book of Jonah in a fresh way that leaves the reader uncomfortable, but hopeful. The ideal of an ethic of reconciliation that the author offers here is one that provides redemptive, trans-religious qualities not only for those who call themselves Christians, but also for any who are interested in finding a better way to move forward in a world filled with ceaseless strife and uncertainty.

[Sharon]

Haven't finished yet but I think this book is terrific look at reconciliation.