The Theology of the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah

Roger S. Nam (Emory University, Atlanta)

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Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Cambridge University Press
21 November 2024

Old Testaments; Christian theology; Judaism; Judaism: sacred texts; Judaism: theology

Series: Old Testament Theology

In the opening verses of the Book of Ezra-Nehemiah, King Cyrus exhorts the exiled Judeans to return to Jerusalem to restore worship in Jerusalem. It then narrates this restoration through the construction of the temple, the repair of the city walls, and the commitment to the written Torah. In this volume, Roger Nam offers a new and compelling argument regarding the theology of Ezra-Nehemiah: that the Judeans' return migration, which extended over several generations, had a totalizing effect on the people. Repatriation was not a single event, but rather a multi-generational process that oscillated between assimilation and preservation of culture. Consequently, Ezra-Nehemiah presents a unique theological perspective. Nam explores the book's prominent theological themes, including trauma, power, identity, community, worship, divine presence, justice, hope, and others – all of which take on a nuanced expression in diaspora. He also shows how and why Ezra-Nehemiah naturally found a rich reception among emerging early Christian and Jewish interpretive communities.

By: Roger S. Nam (Emory University Atlanta)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
ISBN: 9781108423625
ISBN 10: 1108423620
Series: Old Testament Theology
Pages: 276
Publication Date: 21 November 2024
Audience: College/higher education , Further / Higher Education
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Roger S. Nam is Professor of Hebrew Bible at Candler School of Theology, Emory University. He is the author of Portrayals of Economic Exchange in the Book of Kings and a commentary on Ezra-Nehemiah in the Old Testament Library Series.

Reviews for The Theology of the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah

‘Nam offers a fresh perspective on the theological themes embedded in Ezra-Nehemiah that sheds light on the complexities of the postexilic era. The book skillfully weaves together historical context, theological insights, and a critical analysis of contemporary scholarly approaches, creating a thought-provoking narrative that will resonate with academics and those new to the study of Ezra-Nehemiah.' Deirdre Fulton, Baylor University ‘Roger Nam's Ezra-Nehemiah commentary is a rare self-aware and inclusive application of historical critical methods. Nam thoughtfully integrates excellent historical, linguistic, theological, economic, and postcolonial analyses. He also contextualizes Ezra-Nehemiah within biblical literature, diverse textual witnesses, and broad reception history, facilitating deep and well-informed study of this challenging text.' Lisa Cleath, Princeton Theological Seminary