The Legacy of Hans W. Frei

Description

This volume demonstrates Hans W. Frei's unique contribution to theology and biblical hermeneutics. Divided into five parts, the volume first outlines key biographical details, including a little known interview from 1980 (excerpted), and Frei's Jewish background while growing up in Nazi Germany. The subsequent four parts offer insights into both the centrality of biblical narrative and its fateful eclipse by modernity, as well as Frei's usage of Anselm and Barth. The scholars who contribute to this volume examine Frei's analytical rigor, his plea for a "high Christology" in the service of the church; and his shifting interpretations over the years regarding scripture's "literal sense". They examine Frei's relationship to other contemporary notables such as Paul Ricoeur, Eberhard Jungel, George A. Lindbeck and Carl F. H. Henry, along with an alternative Roman Catholic reading of the history of biblical hermeneutics over against the one he advocates.

George Hunsinger is McCord Professor of Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary, USA.

Here is the living voice of Hans Frei speaking as a Jewish Christian theologian, amplified by the witness of many who have known him and his writings intimately. This collection of new and classic essays will stand as the most useful introduction to Frei's work for a new generation of theologians. -- Ellen F. Davis, Duke Divinity School, USA This set of essays will be as seminal for future reflection about Frei as Frei himself has been for twentieth and twenty-first century theology. They will introduce new readers to Frei, while showing veterans how Frei continues to be near the top of any list of thinkers shaping future religious and theological thought and practice. -- James J. Buckley, Loyola University Maryland, USA