Daniel - (T&t Clark's Study Guides to the Old Testament) by Ernest Lucas (Hardcover)

About the Book

Introduces the Book of Daniel and examines its characteristics, historical context and key themes, as well as its relevance as 'resistance literature'.

Book Synopsis

Introducing students to the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament, Ernest Lucas examines the book's structure and characteristics. He covers the latest in biblical scholarship, including historical and interpretive issues, and considers a range of scholarly approaches. Lucas shows how understanding of the book is enhanced by considering it in the context of Mesopotamian culture, literature, and religion. He also evaluates different arguments concerning the authorship, date, and provenance of the book.

In particular, the guide focuses on illuminating the book's relationship to both the tradition of Hebrew prophecy and the later development of Jewish apocalyptic literature. It also highlights the importance of understanding the Book of Daniel as "resistance literature", which intended to encourage faithful Jews to resist the pressures of conformity to the pagan culture in which they lived, and to endure through persecution if necessary.

With suggestions of further reading at the end of each chapter, this guide will be an essential accompaniment to study of the Book of Daniel.

Review Quotes

"With clarity and insight, Ernest Lucas guides readers through the key issues involved in the interpretation of Daniel. Lucas' deep awareness of the sources shines through, as does his judicious assessment of the main debates. A real strength of this study guide is that he not only tells readers about the book of Daniel, he provides a path for them to read and engage with it themselves, making this a vital resource for those who study and teach Daniel." --David G. Firth, Trinity College Bristol, UK and University of the Free State, South Africa

"I doubt if there is a book in the Old Testament that is more confusing than Daniel, and when scholars seek to explain the book, they can easily make the situation worse. Dr Lucas is the exception. He cannot alter the fact that studying Daniel is a challenge. He does introduce Daniel as straightforwardly, intelligibly, and reliably as anyone could.'" --John Goldingay, Fuller Theological Seminary, USA

"The volume offers balanced coverage of most critical matters for Daniel as a whole and within the book's major text units. This up-to-date and accessible introduction to the study of Daniel and its major interpretive issues will serve both students and scholars looking for a helpful overview and a starting place for deeper study." --The Religious Studies Reviews

About the Author

Ernest Lucas is Vice Principal Emeritus of Bristol Baptist College and an Associate Research Fellow of Spurgeon's College, London, UK.