In this engaging discussion, Joel Rothman, a recent PhD graduate from the University of Divinity in Australia, delves into the intricate cosmology of the Book of Revelation. He shares insights from his book, explaining how cosmic imagery enriches the narrative. Rothman compares the transformative experiences within Revelation to immersive fantasy literature, inviting listeners to explore the contrast between the chaotic nature of the Roman Empire and the concept of hyper heaven. His critical reevaluation of traditional interpretations offers fresh perspectives on this apocalyptic text.

Bernd U. Schipper, a Professor of Hebrew Bible at Humboldt University, dives deep into the intricate relationship between wisdom and Torah in biblical texts. He discusses how Proverbs interacts with Deuteronomy, challenging traditional separations of biblical literature. The conversation highlights the character of Lady Wisdom, her parallels with Egyptian mythology, and moral implications in Proverbs. Schipper also explores the concept of Sheol and its contrast with other cultures, emphasizing wisdom's practical significance in understanding human experience.

Shlomo Dov Rosen, a multifaceted scholar and rabbi, dives deep into the Book of Psalms, exploring its emotional and spiritual layers. He highlights the Psalms' enduring influence, offering solace in times of crisis, like current threats in Israel. The discussion reveals how both Jewish and Christian traditions enrich spiritual practices with these prayers. Rosen also compares the awe and wonder of Psalm 139 to Robert Frost's poetry, emphasizing their shared themes of existence and divine connection. Personal reflections on various Psalms showcase their timeless relevance.

Constantine R. Campbell, a New Testament scholar and Research Director at the Sydney College of Divinity, sheds light on the often-overlooked topic of verbal aspect in Biblical Greek. He discusses its critical role in interpreting scripture, emphasizing that it can be more important than verb tense. Campbell shares insights from his accessible textbook, explaining perfective and imperfective aspects to enhance narrative comprehension. He also explores the future and perfect tenses, challenging traditional views and revealing their implications in understanding Paul’s messages.

In this engaging discussion, David Anthony Basham, Assistant Professor of New Testament at Ashland Theological Seminary and author of "Paul, the Temple, and Building a Metaphor," delves into the transformative use of temple language in Paul's letters. He explores how Paul’s metaphor redefines identity among the Corinthians, viewing themselves as God’s temple. Basham also examines Paul's shifting perspective on the Herodian temple post-conversion and the implications of these ideas for both Jewish and Gentile believers in the early Christian community.

Rabbi Shmuel Goldin, author of "Unlocking the Torah Text," dives deep into interpreting the Torah, emphasizing the balance between straightforward meanings and Midrashic insights. He tackles profound themes like free will versus predestination and the philosophical implications of good and evil through the story of the tree of knowledge. Goldin also explores Korach's rebellion as a pivotal moment questioning authority in Judaism, while reflecting on the importance of evolving leadership in the community. His work aims to enrich both education and legacy in Jewish thought.

Alec Goldstein, a Rabbi and author with a rich background in French literature and accounting, discusses Maimonides’ interpretations of the Book of Exodus. He illuminates Maimonides' blend of legal precision and philosophical insight, shedding light on themes of redemption and divine love. The conversation explores the profound implications of God's self-revelation at the burning bush and how historical interpretations enrich our understanding today. Goldstein also shares exciting future projects, including a collection of Hebrew articles set for 2025.

Yitzchak Etshalom, a renowned Rabbi and master educator in Los Angeles, dives into the life and rhetoric of the prophet Amos. He reveals how Amos's poetic critiques of Israelite elites resonate with timeless themes of justice and power. Listeners learn about Etshalom's personal journey behind his commentary, influenced by family and teaching experiences. Additionally, the discussion explores Amos's historical context, his artistry in advocating for social responsibility, and Etshalom's exciting upcoming projects in biblical studies.

Jeremiah Unterman, the academic editor of The Koren Tanakh of the Land of Israel, brings a wealth of knowledge in Hebrew Bible studies. He dives into the innovative approach of pairing modern scholarship with the original Hebrew text, emphasizing the contextual richness of the biblical narratives. Unterman discusses the decision to begin with Exodus, explores the intricacies of Genesis, and contrasts monotheism in the Hebrew Bible with ancient polytheism. He also highlights Rabbi Sacks' fluid translation style and shares insights on their future biblical projects.

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021).Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America.Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biblical-studies