The End of History and the Last King - (Library of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies) by David Janzen (Paperback)

About the Book

Explores the influence of Achaemenid ideology on the worldview and construction of community identity in Ezra-Nehemiah from the Old Testament.

Book Synopsis

This book examines community identity in the post-exilic temple community in Ezra-Nehemiah, and explores the possible influences that the Achaemenids, the ruling Persian dynasty, might have had on its construction. In the book, David Janzen reads Ezra-Nehemiah in dialogue with the Achaemenids' Old Persian inscriptions, as well as with other media the dynasty used, such as reliefs, seals, coins, architecture, and imperial parks. In addition, he discusses the cultural and religious background of Achaemenid thought, especially its intersections with Zoroastrian beliefs.

Review Quotes

"Janzen's clearly focused, well-supported arguments make for a fascinating read. Because of the clear and thorough arguments made in Janzen's book, it will prove a rich source for further explorations of the construction of identity in Ezra-Nehemiah." --Review of Biblical Literature

About the Author

David Janzen is Professor of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Durham University, UK.