Human-Divine Interactions in the Hebrew Scriptures: Covenants and Cross-Purposes

This book explores the relationship between God and humans, suggesting that God's actions reflect his goal of creating a worthy world, while humans must attend to their own obligations. In acts of grace, God voluntarily takes on special obligations toward the created world through covenants, which frame the moral parameters of human-divine interaction. The interpretive discussions involve close readings of the Hebrew text and are informed by rabbinic tradition and Western philosophy, addressing major issues relevant to scholars of the Bible, theology, and philosophy of religion.

Format: Hardback
Length: 150 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into profound theological and biblical themes, presenting a daring thesis about the relationship between God and humans. It argues that while God's actions and plans reflect His ultimate goal of creating a worthy world, they may not necessarily align with our human perspectives. On the other hand, humans are bound by unique obligations stemming from their dependence on the existing world and their specific roles within the human family. However, in acts of grace, God voluntarily assumes special responsibilities towards the created world by entering into covenants with its inhabitants. These covenants define the moral boundaries of human-divine interaction and cooperation, where each party struggles to balance their original duties with the new obligations imposed by the covenants.

The interpretive discussions in this book are conducted through close readings of the Hebrew text, drawing upon rabbinic tradition and Western philosophy. They address critical issues relevant to scholars of the Bible, theology, and philosophy of religion, such as the interplay between divine commands and morality, God's role in human suffering, His historical involvement, and the intersection between politics and religion.

Through its comprehensive exploration, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics between God and humans, shedding light on the moral and ethical dimensions of our relationship with the divine. It encourages readers to engage in thoughtful dialogue and reflection on these profound topics, fostering a deeper understanding of the divine and our place in the world.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032504018