Wiley Blackwell Bible Commentaries – serie

The reception of the Gospel of Matthew over two millennia: commentary and interpretation Matthew Through the Centuries offers an overview of the reception history of one of the most prominent gospels in Christian worship. Examining the reception of Matthew from the perspectives of a wide range of interpreters, from Origen and Hilary of Poitiers to Mary Cornwallis and Bob Marley, this insightful commentary explains the major trends in various ecclesial, historical, and cultural contexts. Focusing on characteristically Matthean features, detailed chapter-by-chapter commentary highlights diverse receptions and interpretations of the gospel. Broad exploration of areas such as liturgy, literature, drama, film, hymnody, political discourse, and visual art illustrates the enormous impact Matthew continues to have on Judeo–Christian civilization. Known as “the Church’s Gospel” Matthew’s text has been the subject of apologetic and theological controversy for hundreds of years. It has been seen as justification for political and ecclesial status quo and as a path to radical discipleship. Matthew has influenced divergent political, spiritual, and cultural figures such as Saint Francis of Assisi, John Ruskin, Leo Tolstoy, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Mahatma Gandhi. Matthew’s interest in ecclesiology provides early structures of ecclesial life, such as the resolution of community disputes, communal prayer, and liturgical prescriptions for the Eucharist and baptism. A significant addition to the acclaimed Wiley Blackwell Bible Commentaries series, Matthew Through the Centuries is an indispensable resource for both students and experts in areas including religious and biblical studies, literature, history, politics, and those interested in the influence of the Bible on Western culture.

This is the first of a two-volume bible commentary covering the Psalms and examining the role of these biblical poems throughout Jewish and Christian history. Provides a fascinating introduction to the literary, historical, and theological background of psalmodyExamines the psalms through liturgy and prayer, study and preaching, translation and imitation, and musical composition and artistic illustrationIncludes illustrations of significant psalms, helpful maps, and an extensive bibliography; an expanded bibliography to accompany the book is also available at www.wiley.com/go/gillinghamA forthcoming second volume is planned, which will take an alternative psalm-by-psalm approachNow available in paperback, and published in the innovative reception-history series, Blackwell Bible Commentaries

Ecclesiastes Through the Centuries “A rich tour down many significant streams of Western interpretation of this fascinating biblical book… Heartily recommended, without reservation.”Bible and Critical Theory “A fundamental resource on biblical interpretation, especially in the modern world, this book is a winner.”International Review of Biblical Studies “The introduction and commentary proper cover many topics, from patristic and rabbinic exegesis through to modern science-fiction, with numerous stops on the way… Very well written and accessible…an excellent book.”Society for Old Testament Study Book List Over the centuries, Ecclesiastes has influenced numerous aspects of life and thought. Ecclesiastes Through the Centuries assesses the diverse effects of the book on culture in religion, art, and social contexts. Ecclesiastes shaped the life of European abbeys of the middle ages. For Renaissance thinkers, it provided a sceptical line of inquiry weighted with the disquieting authority of Scripture. It has inspired the imaginations of artists, musicians, and poets from the Renaissance to the present day. The influence of Ecclesiastes on literature has engaged authors as diverse as Bacon, Donne, Eliot, Hardy, Melville, and numerous Elizabethan poets. This commentary traces these influences as well as the fascinating range of Jewish and Christian readings. The result is an informative and broad-ranging approach to the impact of this book through the centuries that will engage all those studying the Bible. For further information about the Blackwell Bible Commentaries please visit www.bbibcomm.net.

The first systematic and comprehensive attempt to identify and analyze the role of Isaianic language and imagery in literature, art, and musicUsing reception history as its basis for study, Isaiah Through the Centuries is an unprecedented exploration of the afterlife of the Book of Isaiah, specifically in art, literature, and music. This is a commentary that guides the reader through the Book of Isaiah, examining the differing interpretations of each phrase or passage from a variety of cultural and religious perspectives, Jewish, Christian and Muslim. Clearly structured and accessible, and richly illustrated, the book functions as a complete and comprehensive educational reference work.Isaiah Through the Centuries encourages readers to learn with an open mind and to understand how different interpretations have helped in the teaching and comprehension of the Bible and Isaiah’s place in it. As part of the Wiley-Blackwell Bible Commentaries series, which is primarily concerned with reception history, the book emphasizes that how people interpret the prophet—and how they’ve been influenced by him—is often just as important as the sacred text’s original meaning. Uses reception history to study the renowned prophetProvides a historical context for every use or interpretation discussedOffers essential background information on authors, artists, musicians, etc. in its glossary and biographiesMinimizes historical details in order to focus as much as possible on exegetical mattersPresents the role of Isaiah and the Bible in the creative artsWill be useful to multiple disciplines including theology and religion, English literature, art history and the history of music, not just Biblical StudiesComprehensive in scope, Isaiah Through the Centuries is a much-needed resource for all those interested in the influence of the Bible on Western culture, and presents unique perspectives for anyone interested in the Bible to discuss and debate for many years to come.

This bible commentary traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists. A bible commentary focusing on The Book of Judges, best known for the tale of Samson and Delilah, but full of many other rich and colourful stories. Treats the text story by story, making it accessible to non-specialists, Considers the stories of women in Judges, including Deborah, Jael, who slew Sisera, and Jephthah’s daughter, sacrificed by her father. Traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists. Illustrates how ideology and the social location of readers have shaped the way the book has been read. Discloses a long history of debate over the roles of women and the use of force, as well as Christian prejudice against Jews and ‘Orientals’. Offers a window onto the use of the Bible in the Western world.

This bible commentary traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists. A bible commentary focusing on The Book of Judges, best known for the tale of Samson and Delilah, but full of many other rich and colourful stories. Treats the text story by story, making it accessible to non-specialists, Considers the stories of women in Judges, including Deborah, Jael, who slew Sisera, and Jephthah’s daughter, sacrificed by her father. Traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists. Illustrates how ideology and the social location of readers have shaped the way the book has been read. Discloses a long history of debate over the roles of women and the use of force, as well as Christian prejudice against Jews and ‘Orientals’. Offers a window onto the use of the Bible in the Western world.

This pioneering commentary embraces the full scope and themes raised in John's Gospel, offering an engaging and perceptive reading. Mark Edwards explores a diverse range of excerpts and creative responses, with particular emphasis on the treatment of the Gospel in English poetry. Explores the diverse themes and issues raised in John’s Gospel, and considers its influence on figures from Saint Augustine, to Dorothy Sayers and Bob Dylan. Treats well-known interpreters such as Thomas Aquinas along with lesser-known figures such as the Gnostic Heracleon, and the sixth-century hymn-writer, Romanos. Brings ancient and modern commentators into dialogue with each other, and takes a critical stance towards some parallels drawn by modern scholars between the Gospel and the surrounding pagan culture. Features excerpts from a wide variety of poets who give a creative interpretation of John’s Gospel, and considers many artistic representations. Suggests that imaginative response can illuminate a reading of the Bible where purely critical and historical analysis has proved unsatisfactory. An accessible introduction and extensive section notes address interpretations of the Gospel from antiquity to the present. Published as part of the ground-breaking Blackwell Bible Commentaries series. More information about this series is available from the Blackwell Bible Commentaries website at http://www.bbibcomm.net/

This pioneering commentary embraces the full scope and themes raised in John's Gospel, offering an engaging and perceptive reading. Mark Edwards explores a diverse range of excerpts and creative responses, with particular emphasis on the treatment of the Gospel in English poetry. Explores the diverse themes and issues raised in John’s Gospel, and considers its influence on figures from Saint Augustine, to Dorothy Sayers and Bob Dylan. Treats well-known interpreters such as Thomas Aquinas along with lesser-known figures such as the Gnostic Heracleon, and the sixth-century hymn-writer, Romanos. Brings ancient and modern commentators into dialogue with each other, and takes a critical stance towards some parallels drawn by modern scholars between the Gospel and the surrounding pagan culture. Features excerpts from a wide variety of poets who give a creative interpretation of John’s Gospel, and considers many artistic representations. Suggests that imaginative response can illuminate a reading of the Bible where purely critical and historical analysis has proved unsatisfactory. An accessible introduction and extensive section notes address interpretations of the Gospel from antiquity to the present. Published as part of the ground-breaking Blackwell Bible Commentaries series. More information about this series is available from the Blackwell Bible Commentaries website at http://www.bbibcomm.net/

This commentary on Paul’s highly autobiographical letter to the Galations traces the history of the book’s reception through the ages. Explores the influence and history of this important New Testament bookDemonstrates the crucial role that Galatians has played in the development of very diverse forms of Christian spiritualityConsiders the influence of Galatians on a wide range of theological figures, including Chrysostom, Augustine, and LutherExamines the ways in which Galatians has influenced images of Paul, suggesting that it is the indeterminacy and complexity of his text that cause it to be interpreted in such widely differing waysFocuses on verses, themes or arguments that have been the subject of particularly influential readingsPublished in the innovative and stimulating Wiley-Blackwell Bible Commentaries reception history series, which focuses on the broad spectrum of interpretations rather than the traditional verse by verse analysis typically found in commentaries.

Explores the interpretive history of the Book of Jeremiah, and highlights its influence on various cultures through the centuries Jeremiah Through the Centuries explores the reception history of this enigmatic prophet and his words. The book offers an introduction telling the story of the surprising ways in which both voice and persona of this elusive prophet were used in critical historical moments, as well as a complete chapter-by-chapter commentary that presents the significant historical effects of selected texts. The spiritual struggles of the faithful and critiques of philosophers and scientists are often presented in their own voices. The book offers original ideas about the effects of the “slipping figure of Jeremiah” on the developing idea of the self, shown in a wide range of liturgical, political, artistic, literary, and cultural contexts. The book guides readers through various interpretations of Jeremiah’s poetry and prose, discussing the profound influence that Jeremiah and Western culture have had on each other through the centuries. Significant texts from every chapter of Jeremiah are presented in a chronological narrative as both conversation and debate – enabling readers to encounter the prophet in the text of the Bible and in previous exegeses. Throughout the text, the receptions reflect historical contexts and highlight the ways they shaped specific receptions of Jeremiah. This book: Illustrates how the Book of Jeremiah was adapted by readers to face new challenges, both in the past and presentIncludes examples of Jeremiah in social satire, Islamic tradition, political debate, and religious controversyProvides a detailed introduction that traces Jeremiah’s influence on events and traditionsOffers insights into both celebrated texts and lesser-known passages that are relevant to contemporary readersFeatures numerous, previously unpublished illustrations demonstrating the influence of Jeremiah on traditions in Western artFeaturing engaging narrative and expert commentary, Jeremiah Through the Centuries is ideal for students, teachers, and general readers with interest in theology and biblical studies, Judaic studies, ancient literature, cultural criticism, reception history of the Bible, and the history of Western civilization.

Explores the interpretive history of the Book of Jeremiah, and highlights its influence on various cultures through the centuries Jeremiah Through the Centuries explores the reception history of this enigmatic prophet and his words. The book offers an introduction telling the story of the surprising ways in which both voice and persona of this elusive prophet were used in critical historical moments, as well as a complete chapter-by-chapter commentary that presents the significant historical effects of selected texts. The spiritual struggles of the faithful and critiques of philosophers and scientists are often presented in their own voices. The book offers original ideas about the effects of the “slipping figure of Jeremiah” on the developing idea of the self, shown in a wide range of liturgical, political, artistic, literary, and cultural contexts. The book guides readers through various interpretations of Jeremiah’s poetry and prose, discussing the profound influence that Jeremiah and Western culture have had on each other through the centuries. Significant texts from every chapter of Jeremiah are presented in a chronological narrative as both conversation and debate – enabling readers to encounter the prophet in the text of the Bible and in previous exegeses. Throughout the text, the receptions reflect historical contexts and highlight the ways they shaped specific receptions of Jeremiah. This book: Illustrates how the Book of Jeremiah was adapted by readers to face new challenges, both in the past and presentIncludes examples of Jeremiah in social satire, Islamic tradition, political debate, and religious controversyProvides a detailed introduction that traces Jeremiah’s influence on events and traditionsOffers insights into both celebrated texts and lesser-known passages that are relevant to contemporary readersFeatures numerous, previously unpublished illustrations demonstrating the influence of Jeremiah on traditions in Western artFeaturing engaging narrative and expert commentary, Jeremiah Through the Centuries is ideal for students, teachers, and general readers with interest in theology and biblical studies, Judaic studies, ancient literature, cultural criticism, reception history of the Bible, and the history of Western civilization.

This ground-breaking commentary on The Revelation to John (the Apocalypse) reveals its far-reaching influence on society and culture, and its impact on the church through the ages. Explores the far-reaching influence of the Apocalypse on society and culture. Shows the book's impact on the Christian church through the ages. Looks at interpretations of the Apocalypse by theologians, ranging from Augustine to late twentieth century liberation theologians. Considers the book's effects on writers, artists, musicians, political figures, visionaries, and others, including Dante, Hildegard of Bingen, Milton, Newton, the English Civil war radicals, Turner, Blake, Handel, and Franz Schmidt. Provides access to material not readily available elsewhere. Will appeal to students and scholars across a wide range of disciplines, as well as to general readers. More information about this series is available from the Blackwell Bible Commentaries website at http://www.bbibcomm.net/

This ground-breaking commentary on The Revelation to John (the Apocalypse) reveals its far-reaching influence on society and culture, and its impact on the church through the ages. Explores the far-reaching influence of the Apocalypse on society and culture. Shows the book's impact on the Christian church through the ages. Looks at interpretations of the Apocalypse by theologians, ranging from Augustine to late twentieth century liberation theologians. Considers the book's effects on writers, artists, musicians, political figures, visionaries, and others, including Dante, Hildegard of Bingen, Milton, Newton, the English Civil war radicals, Turner, Blake, Handel, and Franz Schmidt. Provides access to material not readily available elsewhere. Will appeal to students and scholars across a wide range of disciplines, as well as to general readers. More information about this series is available from the Blackwell Bible Commentaries website at http://www.bbibcomm.net/

This bible commentary looks at how Exodus has influenced and has been influenced by history, religion, politics, the arts and other forms of culture over the ages. A bible commentary tracing the reception history of Exodus from Old Testament times, through the Patristic and Reformation periods, to the present day.Considers the ways in which Exodus has influenced and has been influenced by history, religion, politics, the arts and other forms of culture in Jewish, Christian and secular settings.Looks at how Exodus has served as a tool of liberation and tyranny in a variety of settings.Shows how Exodus has been used to shape the identities of individuals and groups.Discusses the works of current and past poets, musicians, film-makers, authors and artists influenced by Exodus.Addresses uses of Exodus related to American and European history such as the Glorious Revolution, colonialism, the American Revolution, Civil War, Civil Rights Movement, African-Americans, and Native Americans, as well as uses by prominent and little-known historical figuresConsiders the impact of the Ten Commandments and other laws, in legal, political and religious contexts.The Blackwell Bible Commentary series is supported by a website at www.bbibcomm.net

This bible commentary looks at how Exodus has influenced and has been influenced by history, religion, politics, the arts and other forms of culture over the ages. A bible commentary tracing the reception history of Exodus from Old Testament times, through the Patristic and Reformation periods, to the present day.Considers the ways in which Exodus has influenced and has been influenced by history, religion, politics, the arts and other forms of culture in Jewish, Christian and secular settings.Looks at how Exodus has served as a tool of liberation and tyranny in a variety of settings.Shows how Exodus has been used to shape the identities of individuals and groups.Discusses the works of current and past poets, musicians, film-makers, authors and artists influenced by Exodus.Addresses uses of Exodus related to American and European history such as the Glorious Revolution, colonialism, the American Revolution, Civil War, Civil Rights Movement, African-Americans, and Native Americans, as well as uses by prominent and little-known historical figuresConsiders the impact of the Ten Commandments and other laws, in legal, political and religious contexts.The Blackwell Bible Commentary series is supported by a website at www.bbibcomm.net

This commentary on Paul’s highly autobiographical letter to the Galations traces the history of the book’s reception through the ages. Explores the influence and history of this important New Testament bookDemonstrates the crucial role that Galatians has played in the development of very diverse forms of Christian spiritualityConsiders the influence of Galatians on a wide range of theological figures, including Chrysostom, Augustine, and LutherExamines the ways in which Galatians has influenced images of Paul, suggesting that it is the indeterminacy and complexity of his text that cause it to be interpreted in such widely differing waysFocuses on verses, themes or arguments that have been the subject of particularly influential readingsPublished in the innovative and stimulating Wiley-Blackwell Bible Commentaries reception history series, which focuses on the broad spectrum of interpretations rather than the traditional verse by verse analysis typically found in commentaries.

The reception of the Gospel of Matthew over two millennia: commentary and interpretation Matthew Through the Centuries offers an overview of the reception history of one of the most prominent gospels in Christian worship. Examining the reception of Matthew from the perspectives of a wide range of interpreters, from Origen and Hilary of Poitiers to Mary Cornwallis and Bob Marley, this insightful commentary explains the major trends in various ecclesial, historical, and cultural contexts. Focusing on characteristically Matthean features, detailed chapter-by-chapter commentary highlights diverse receptions and interpretations of the gospel. Broad exploration of areas such as liturgy, literature, drama, film, hymnody, political discourse, and visual art illustrates the enormous impact Matthew continues to have on Judeo–Christian civilization. Known as “the Church’s Gospel” Matthew’s text has been the subject of apologetic and theological controversy for hundreds of years. It has been seen as justification for political and ecclesial status quo and as a path to radical discipleship. Matthew has influenced divergent political, spiritual, and cultural figures such as Saint Francis of Assisi, John Ruskin, Leo Tolstoy, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Mahatma Gandhi. Matthew’s interest in ecclesiology provides early structures of ecclesial life, such as the resolution of community disputes, communal prayer, and liturgical prescriptions for the Eucharist and baptism. A significant addition to the acclaimed Wiley Blackwell Bible Commentaries series, Matthew Through the Centuries is an indispensable resource for both students and experts in areas including religious and biblical studies, literature, history, politics, and those interested in the influence of the Bible on Western culture.

Offers a history of the interpretation of Chronicles in theology, worship, music, literature and art from the ancient period to the present day, demonstrating its foundational importance within the Old Testament Explores important differences between the same topics and stories that occur in Chronicles and other biblical books such as Genesis and Kings, including  the pious depiction of David, the clear correlation between moral behavior and divine reward, and the elevation of music in worshipExamines the reception of Chronicles among its interpreters, including rabbis of the Talmud, Jerome, Martin Luther, Johann Sebastian Bach, Cotton Mather, and others, Features broad yet comprehensive coverage that considers Jewish and Christian, ancient and modern, and secular and pop cultural interpretationsOrganizes discussions by verse to illuminate each one’s changing meaning across the ages

Psalms Through the Centuries: Volume Two provides the first ever extensive commentary on the Jewish and Christian reception history of the first two books of the Psalter (Psalms 1-41 and 42-72). It explores the various uses of the Psalms, over two millennia, in translation and commentary, liturgy and prayer, study and preaching, musical composition and artistic illustration, poetic and dramatic imitation, and contemporary discourse.With lavish illustrations, using examples from both music and art, Psalms Through the Centuries: Volume Two offers a detailed commentary on each psalm, with an extensive bibliography, a large glossary of terms, and helpful indices. It is an ideal resource both for students and scholars in the academy and for lay people and ministers in church and synagogue.Psalms Through the Centuries is published within the Wiley Blackwell Commentary series.  Further information about this innovative reception history series is available at www.bbibcomm.info

Explores the epistles’ reception history and their effects in sermons, music, art, literature, and politics over time1, 2 Peter and Jude Through the Centuries considers three small epistles which are often overlooked in controversial discussions of theology, culture, art, music, politics, and literature. This book offers fresh perspectives on the epistles’ effects in numerous theological and cultural contexts such as slavery, the role of women in marriage, the nature of Christology, and how believers should relate to the government.Author Rebecca Skaggs traces the reception history of 1 Peter, Jude, and 2 Peter and investigates the texts’ effects on diverse doctrinal, social and political issues. Their influence on artists, musicians, dramatists and literary writers is explored, especially the Doctrine of the Descent of Christ into Hades. Each chapter includes an overview of central issues and topics, a selection of ancient readings with interpretations and a brief survey of modern scholarship on the subject. Illuminating how readings vary across historical periods and interpretive communities, this book: Traces the multi-faceted contributions of 1 and 2 Peter and Jude to theological discussionsProvides a sampling of the kinds of effects available from each of the texts in various contextsShows how the epistles engage in the discussions and controversies of the Medieval AgesOffers discussions of the epistles’ contributions to doctrinal debates on the inspiration of scripture and how to respond to heresy in the churchFeatures detailed treatment of topics such as Christ’s visit to the spirits in prison, the dispute between Michael and Satan over Moses’ body and the final judgment by fireFeatures commentary from a leading scholar in New Testament Studies and Christian TheologyOffering enlightening essays and new approaches, 1, 2 Peter and Jude Through the Centuries is an ideal book for anyone interested in the rich contributions of these epistles, such as Biblical and Theological Studies students, and pastors looking for original insights on reception material.

A meticulous exploration of the reception history of Jonah in all its facetsJonah through the Centuries is a systematic examination of the reception history of the book of Jonah, long-recognized for its numerous theological implications and diverse interpretations. The first book of its kind written in English, this singular volume provides a lucid and coherent commentary on the most influential re-readings of Jonah in Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and secular traditions. Author Lena-Sofia Tiemeyer progresses slowly through the book of Jonah verse-by-verse—even word-by-word through key verses such as Jonah 1:1 and 2:1—to offer readers deep insight into the many and multifaceted interpretations of Jonah from early Jewish readings to modern literary retellings.Structured thematically rather than strictly chronologically, the text begins with the earliest interpretation and follows its trendline all the way through to modern times before turning to the next-oldest interpretation. The commentary covers a broad range of retellings in many languages and in various media including commentaries, sermons, prose, poetry, theatrical drama, art, and music. Throughout the text, the author demonstrates how all these retellings ultimately originate within the biblical text itself and highlights how many of the interpretations are fueled and influenced by the interpreter's religious background, cultural assumptions, and their preconceived notions of what the text should say. Discusses how retellings of Jonah ultimately originate within the text's theological or literary ambiguities, choice of words, or syntactical constructionExplains how cross-cultural interchanges between Jews, Christians, and Muslims at different points throughout the centuries influenced the reception of JonahHighlights how several retellings form clusters according to the interpreters' religious affiliationsCovers various interpretations of both often-cited and lesser-known verses from the book of JonahInteracts with an international range of literary retellings of the book of Jonah, offered in English translationJonah through the Centuries is an invaluable resource for educated clergy, undergraduate and graduate students in both seminaries and universities, scholars and academics, and general readers with interest in the reception of biblical texts in literature, art, and music.

This interdisciplinary commentary ranges from early midrashic interpretation to contemporary rewritings introducing interpretations of the only biblical book not to mention God. Unearths a wealth of neglected rewritings inspired by the story’s relevance to themes of nationhood, rebellion, providence, revenge, female heroism, Jewish identity, exile, genocide and ‘multiculturalism’Reveals the various struggles and strategies used by religious commentators to make sense of this only biblical book that does not mention GodAsks why Esther is underestimated by contemporary feminist scholars despite a long history of subversive rewritingsCompares the most influential Jewish and Christian interpretations and interpretersIncludes an introduction to the book’s myriad representations in literature, music, and artPublished in the reception-history series, Blackwell Bible Commentaries

Drawing on scholarly insights and a comprehensive array of texts from the entirety of Christian tradition, The Pastoral Epistles Through the Centuries explores the rich legacy of the Pastorals as it has unfolded over the centuries. Explores the important role of the New Testament letters to Timothy and Titus, known collectively as the Pastoral Epistles, in the development of early ChristianitySurveys the many theological, cultural, literary, political, and artistic uses of the Pastorals, and the broader influence these letters have had throughout the agesConsiders the Pastorals’ complex influence on issues such as church structure and rites, the roles of women in Christian religious life, the authority of scripture, and the development of monastic ordersExamines the many ways in which language and concepts from the Pastoral Epistles (such as “fight the good fight” and “the root of all evils”) have filtered into our cultural vernacularReferences the works of major theologians and interpreters from all periods, and places special emphasis on traditionally underrepresented interpreters

Charting the theological and cultural potency of Acts across the timespan of Christian history, this work of profound scholarship reveals the full extent of the New Testament book’s religious, artistic, literary, and political influence. Reveals the influence of Acts at key turning points in the history of the Christian churchTraces the rich and varied artistic and cultural heritage rooted in Acts, from music to literatureAnalyzes the political significance of the book as a touchstone in the church’s external relationsProvides detailed commentary on the exegesis of Acts down the centuries

Psalms Through the Centuries: Volume Two provides the first ever extensive commentary on the Jewish and Christian reception history of the first two books of the Psalter (Psalms 1-41 and 42-72). It explores the various uses of the Psalms, over two millennia, in translation and commentary, liturgy and prayer, study and preaching, musical composition and artistic illustration, poetic and dramatic imitation, and contemporary discourse.With lavish illustrations, using examples from both music and art, Psalms Through the Centuries: Volume Two offers a detailed commentary on each psalm, with an extensive bibliography, a large glossary of terms, and helpful indices. It is an ideal resource both for students and scholars in the academy and for lay people and ministers in church and synagogue.Psalms Through the Centuries is published within the Wiley Blackwell Commentary series.  Further information about this innovative reception history series is available at www.bbibcomm.info

This third volume completes the set of a groundbreaking reception history of the Psalter, the culmination of two decades' workIn Volume Threeof Psalms Through the Centuries: A Reception History Commentary on Psalms 73-151, the internationally recognized biblical scholar Professor Susan Gillingham examines the Jewish and Christian cultural and reception history of Books Three to Five of the Psalter. She examines the changing ways in which psalms have been understood in translations and commentaries, liturgy and prayer, study and preaching, music and art, poetic and dramatic performance, and political and ethical discourse.Lavishly illustrated with thirty colour plates, several black and white images and a number of musical scores, this volume also includes a comprehensive glossary of terms for readers less familiar with the subject and a full, selective bibliography complete with footnote references for each psalm. Numerous links to website resources also allow readers to pursue topics at greater depth, and three clearly organized indices facilitate searches by specific psalms or authors, or types of reception for selected psalms.This structure makes the commentary easy to use, whether for private study, teaching or preaching. The book also offers: A one-of-a-kind treatment of the reception history of the psalms that starts where most commentaries end— beginning with the trajectory of the Psalter’s multi-faceted reception over two millenniaSpecific discussions of both Jewish and Christian responses to individual psalmsPsalms Through the Centuries: A Reception History Commentary on Psalms 73-151, like the previous two volumes, will earn a distinctive place in the libraries of faculties, colleges, seminaries, and religious communities as well as in private collections of students and scholars of biblical studies, theology, and religion.

"I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is informative, thought-provoking, and – despite being a commentary – holds the reader's attention. It made me appreciate Lamentations in a new way. To be recommended." The Swedish Exegetical Yearbook 2014, 1 October 2014 One of the shortest books in the Bible, Lamentations exercises a disproportionately powerful cultural influence. As an unflinching account of the devastation wreaked by war, it has been called upon again and again by Jews, Christians, and others in their responses to catastrophes as varied as the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, the Great Fire of London, the Holocaust and 9/11. Covering two-and-a-half millennia of liturgy and literature, theology and psychology, art, music and film, this volume explores the astonishing variety of cultural and religious responses to Lamentations, taking in the New Testament and the Dead Sea Scrolls, Yehudah Halevy, John Calvin, and Thomas Tallis, as well as the startling interpretations of Marc Chagall, Cynthia Ozick, Alice Miller, and Zimbabwean junk sculpture. Viewed through this kaleidoscope of sources, the ancient biblical text acquires a vital and resonant new life. Lamentations Through the Centuries is published within the Wiley Blackwell Bible Commentaries series. Further information about this innovative reception history series is available at www.bbibcomm.info.

Six Minor Prophets Through the Centuries is the work of highly respected biblical scholars, Richard Coggins and Jin H. Han. The volume explores the rich and complex reception history of the last six Minor Prophets in Jewish and Christian exegesis, theology, worship, and arts. This text is the work of two highly respected biblical scholarsIt explores the rich and complex reception history of the last six Minor Prophets in Jewish and Christian theology and exegesis