Freedom Beyond Forgiveness: The Book of Jonah Re-Examined

by Thomas M. Bolin

Publisher:

Sheffield Academic Press

, 1997

Overview

Bolin analyzes biblical and extra-biblical traditions and motifs in the book of Jonah, and argues that the book's portrayal of the relationship between God and humanity, much like those of Job and Ecclesiastes, emphasizes an absolute divine sovereignty beyond human notions of mercy, justice, or forgiveness. God is understood as free to forgive, yet he still punishes, and is unfettered by the constraints imposed by attributes of benevolence. The only proper human response to God is fear at his power and acknowledgment of him as the source of welfare and woe.

Key Features

• Literary and exegetical analysis
• Provides solid commentary and context
• Contains notes and indexes to direct study

Product Details

• Title: Freedom Beyond Forgiveness: The Book of Jonah Re-Examined
• Author: Thomas M. Bolin
• Publisher: Sheffield Academic Press
• Publication Date: 1997
• Pages: 217

About Thomas M. Bolin

Thomas M. Bolin, a specialist in the ancient literary and cultural contexts of the Hebrew Bible, is well known in Europe as an Old Testament biblical scholar and often presents papers at international conferences.

His research focuses on the ancient literary and cultural contexts of the Hebrew Bible as well as ancient Israelite history, specifically wisdom literature and post-exilic texts. Hermeneutics is a more recent research interest.

Dr. Bolin teaches courses in Religious Studies, Classical Studies, and in the Master of Theological Studies Program.

Before St. Norbert College, he taught graduate and undergraduate courses at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas.