An Introduction to the Study of Ezekiel: (T&T Clark Approaches to Biblical Studies)

An introduction to the study of Ezekiel that lays out for the reader the central issues for the interpretation of the book of Ezekiel. After explaining how the message of the prophet was relevant to the exilic situation in which he lived, this thorough guide shows how later generations shaped, transmitted, and used Ezekiel in their own communities. The book summarizes the literary shape and contents of Ezekiel, then examines the theories and methodologies used in current scholarship that explain the formation of Ezekiel. Lyons next explains for the reader the theology and major themes of Ezekiel, and closes by evaluating how the arguments of Ezekiel relate to each other as a coherent rhetorical strategy.

Table of Contents:
Abbreviations Introduction Chapter 1. The Prophet Ezekiel and the Book of Ezekiel Chapter 2. From Prophetic Speech to Prophetic Book Chapter 3. Israel, YHWH, Land, and Temple Chapter 4. From Problem to Solution Further Reading Bibliography Index of Scriptural References Index of Authors

About the Author :
Michael Lyons is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Simpson University in Redding, CA, USA.

Review :
L.’s magnificent short introduction to Ezekiel combines a refreshingly accessible guide to the ancient text with an honest appraisal of scholarly interests in this complex biblical book … [his] commendable attention to detail, appreciation of the importance of both traditional and contemporary approaches to Ezekiel, and relentless focus on the text render this an invaluable (and excellent value!) introduction, suitable for competent undergraduates, postgraduates and seasoned scholars alike. A clear and excellent introduction to the book of Ezekiel ... At all times, Lyons writes well and helpfully points to the main issues in the scholarship of the book, which will encourage readers to study further.Lyons gives wise and measured judgements on the issues in a thought provoking manner. [Lyons] has accomplished nothing less than the consolidation of a generation of scholarship. L.’s gift for careful attention to textuality is certainly at work; yet, as the bibliography and his own treatments suggest, he is also drawing from rich recent work on Ezekiel in particular and prophetic literature in general … L. has admirably set the stage for the next generation of Ezekiel scholarship. Lyons’s well-written and judiciously even-handed contribution is a welcome addition to the series ... An excellent orientation to the study of the book of Ezekiel. It covers all the necessary material, while not overwhelming the beginner nor retreading ground for those already generally familiar with the Old Testament ... Lyons is to be thanked for this fine contribution to the study of Ezekiel.