New Books in Biblical Studies Marilynne Robinson, "Reading Genesis" (FSG, 2024)
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Sep 12, 2024 
Marilynne Robinson, an acclaimed author known for her profound literary and theological insights, dives deep into her latest work, 'Reading Genesis.' She argues for viewing Genesis not merely as a collection of documents but as a rich literary masterpiece that explores humanity's complex relationship with the divine. The discussion touches on Jacob’s struggles, language's role in biblical interpretation, and the contrasting narratives of hope in Hebrew versus Babylonian cultures. Robinson passionately advocates for appreciating Genesis' beauty and depth beyond mere academic analysis.
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Robinson's Inspiration
- Robinson's inspiration for Reading Genesis stemmed from her awareness of the dominant documentary hypothesis.
- This hypothesis argues for the discontinuity of the narratives in Genesis, hindering appreciation of its literary greatness.
Respecting Genesis
- Recurring patterns in Genesis, like the antagonism and reconciliation of brothers, reveal its literary function and deeper meaning.
- Robinson emphasizes respecting the text by analyzing its internal dynamics, rather than imposing external models.
Genesis vs. Myth
- Genesis is historical in scale because it centers on human interactions, not deities, unlike Babylonian myths like the Baal cycle.
- The focus on human experience in Genesis makes it historical in its concern with humankind and their relationship with God.