Reverberations of Faith: A Theological Handbook of Old Testament Themes

by Walter Brueggemann

With his typical interpretive coherence, Walter Brueggemann explores more than one hundred Old Testament themes--from "ancestors" to "YHWH." Providing much more than dictionary-style entries, Brueggemann acknowledges the deep interconnectedness of these themes as he explores their depth, complexities, and interrelationships. By reading across the entries, readers will sense the dynamism of the faith of ancient Israel. Each entry states the consensus reading, identifies what is at issue in the interpretive question, and discusses the practical significance of the issue for the church today--in part by suggesting contemporary connections to the ancient texts. Reverberations of Faith will be a great resource for both students and laity.

Genres: Theology, Christianity, Christian, Nonfiction, Old Testament

424 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2002

About the author

Walter Brueggemann was an American Christian scholar and theologian who is widely considered an influential Old Testament scholar. His work often focused on the Hebrew prophetic tradition and the sociopolitical imagination of the Church. He argued that the Church must provide a counter-narrative to the dominant forces of consumerism, militarism, and nationalism.

Reviews

[Ethan Preston · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brueggemann's book is both helpful and provocative. Many entries in this OT theological dictionary provide helpful insight into the theological contributions of the OT, often from a unique angle that proves helpful. One will become familiar with most of the texts in the OT that are pertinent to any OT theological theme. At the same time, Brueggemann's own postmodern approach to hermeneutics results in much of his own cultural and political opinions seeping into the theology of the OT. This can sharpen one's appreciation for what the text is actually saying but can be frustrating. Brueggemann also has a thoroughly critical approach to the text of the OT which informs his conclusions.

[Stephen Dufton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good starter for any work on an Old Testament theme

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book assisting with a working understanding of basic Old Testament themes and terms.