Freedom beyond Forgiveness: The Book of Jonah Re-examined

Author: Bolin, Thomas M.

Brand: Sheffield Academic Press

Edition: First Edition

Number Of Pages: 224

EAN: 9781850756422

Release Date: 01-01-1997

Package Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.4 x 0.7 inches

Languages: English

Binding: hardcover

Part Number: 9781850756422

Details: Bolin analyses 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.