

Christopher Hays – Isaiah and Assyria
Jun 10, 2020
In this engaging discussion, Christopher Hays, a leading scholar of Ancient Near Eastern Studies, shares insights from his recent work on Isaiah 24-27. He dives into the intriguing themes of resurrection and national suffering during King Josiah's reign. The conversation takes a lighthearted turn as they explore whiskey distilling and hypothetical scenarios like colonizing Mars, blending humor with academic depth. Hays also reflects on the complexities of biblical interpretation and the importance of historical context, keeping listeners captivated throughout.
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John Hayes' Farming Anecdote
- John Hayes was a beloved Alabama farmer and a legendary mentor in biblical studies.
- He personally cared for his cattle and passed away peacefully in the field with his cows.
Isaiah 24-27's Ancient Themes
- Isaiah 24-27 presents challenging mythological and resurrection imagery not tied to specific historical events.
- Early interpreters mistakenly dated it late due to resurrection language, but these themes have ancient origins.
Demolishing the "Zombie Theory"
- The 'zombie theory' dates Isaiah 24-27 late due to apocalyptic features, but this view is outdated.
- Despite evidence, the idea persists mainly due to inertia in teaching and textbooks.