The Judgement of Jonah: Yahweh, Jerusalem and Nineveh

This study explores the relationship between God and Jonah, suggesting that Nineveh was a cipher for Jerusalem and that this was evident to Jonahs first readers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This study aims to present a unique commentary on the travails of the prophets, delving into two broader themes: the intricate interconnectedness of Jonah's story with a wide array of other biblical texts, often employed in surprising ways, and the intriguing and contentious relationship between God and Jonah, which has perplexed scholars and lay readers alike for centuries.

To support this interpretation, the study posits a two-fold thesis: firstly, that the book of Jonah can be understood in the context of Nineveh representing the Jerusalem of the authors' time, shedding light on many of its enigmatic aspects. Secondly, it argues that this understanding would have been readily apparent to Jonah's original readers, a group of elite literati within the ruling cadre of late Persian or early Hellenistic Judaea.

The study explores the intricate connections between Jonah's story and various biblical texts, highlighting the surprising ways in which they are intertwined. It demonstrates how Jonah's narrative serves as a cipher for the Jerusalem of the authors' era, providing insights into the political and cultural context of the time. By examining the literary devices and rhetorical strategies employed in the book of Jonah, the study sheds light on the authors' intentions and the broader significance of their work.

Furthermore, the study explores the contrarian relationship between God and Jonah, examining the reasons behind God's anger and Jonah's reluctance to obey his commands. It explores the themes of repentance, forgiveness, and redemption, highlighting the ways in which Jonah's journey ultimately leads to his reconciliation with God.

In conclusion, this study offers a fresh perspective on the travails of the prophets, highlighting the interconnectedness of Jonah's story with other biblical texts and the intriguing relationship between God and Jonah. By examining the literary devices and rhetorical strategies employed by the authors, the study provides insights into the political and cultural context of the time and the broader significance of the book of Jonah.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567706508