Title
In the whirlwind [electronic resource] : God and humanity in conflict / Robert A. Burt.
ISBN
9780674064874 electronic book
0674065662
9780674065666
Imprint
Cambridge, Mass. : Harvard University Press, 2012.
Language
English
Description
1 online resource (xv, 382 p.)
Call Number
BT130 .B877 2012eb
Dewey Decimal Classification
296.3
Summary
"In recounting the rich narratives of key biblical figures - from Adam and Eve to Noah, Cain, Abraham, Moses, Job, and Jesus - In the Whirlwind paints a surprising picture of the ambivalent, mutually dependent relationship between God and his peoples. Taking the Hebrew and Christian Bibles as a unified whole, Burt traces God's relationship with humanity as it evolves from complete harmony at the outset to continual struggle. In almost every case, God insists on unconditional obedience, while humanity withholds submission and holds God accountable for his promises. Contemporary political theory aims for perfect justice. The Bible, Burt shows, does not make this assumption. Justice in the biblical account is an imperfect process grounded in human - and divine - limitation. Burt suggests that we consider the lessons of this tension as we try to negotiate the power struggles within secular governments, and also the conflicts roiling our public and private lives."--pub. desc.
Bibliography, etc. Note
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Access Note
Access limited to authorized users.
Source of Description
Description based on print version record.
In the beginning
The appearance of authority
God gives, God takes away
God's promises: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
Loving power: Moses
Love offered, love commanded: Moses and the children of Israel
Grief and grievance: Moses and Job
As we forgive those
A renewed Testament: Mark, Matthew, and Luke
The same Old Testament: Paul and Jesus
Eliminating doubts and doubters: John
The insoluble problem of politics
Justice, justice shall you pursue
Reconciling with injustice.
