The Theology of the Book of Amos

Description

In modern times Amos has come to be considered one of the most important prophets, mainly for his uncompromising message about social justice. This book provides a detailed exploration of this theme and other important elements of the theology underlying the book of Amos. It also includes chapters on the text itself, providing a critical assessment of how the book came to be, the original message of Amos and his circle, which parts of the book may have been added by later scribes, and the finished form of the book. The author also considers the book's reception in ancient and modern times by interpreters as varied as rabbis, the Church Fathers, the Reformers and liberation theologians. Throughout, the focus is on how to read the book of Amos holistically to understand the organic development of the prophet's message through the many stages of the book's development and interpretation.

John Barton is Oriel and Laing Professor of the Interpretation of Holy Scripture, University of Oxford. He is the author of numerous monographs, including Amos's Oracles against the Nations (1980), The Spirit and the Letter: Studies in the Biblical Canon (1997) and The Nature of Biblical Criticism (2007).

'Barton's discussion is accessible for a broad audience.' Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology 'It naturally becomes the prime port of call for those interested in the theological significance of Amos ... this is a lucid and thoughtful account of Amos, both the prophet and the book, which can hardly fail to give the reader a fresh appreciation.' Walter Moberly, Theology 'Barton's work is a new standard for the theological analysis of biblical books and highly recommended for students and scholars alike.' Religious Studies Review