The Postilla of Nicholas of Lyra on the Song of Songs (Reformation Texts With Translation (1350-1650). Biblical Studies, v.3) [Paperback]

of Lyra Nicholas (Author), James George Kiecker (Author)

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Language Notes

Text: English, Latin (translation)
Original Language: Latin

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Marquette Univ Pr (March 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0874627036
• ISBN-13: 978-0874627039
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,396,740 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A classic of biblical interpretation, April 5, 2000

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This review is from: The Postilla of Nicholas of Lyra on the Song of Songs (Reformation Texts With Translation (1350-1650). Biblical Studies, v.3) (Paperback)

Nicholas of Lyra (fourteenth century) was a seminal figure inthe development of Biblical criticism. His commentaries were thefirst to be published and represent a transition towards a more critical approach to biblical study. In particular, his knowledge of Hebrew and Hebrew commentators may be seen as an indication of this. They were also highly influential in the development of Luther's thought. In this study of the Old Testmanent book known as the Song of Songs, Lyra follows the classic Rabbinic commentator Rashi, in approach, albeit with a marked Christian emphasis in some details, particularly in the latter chapters. Lyra reads the Song allegorically, as describing poetically the history of up to and including the foundation of Christianity and its acceptance by Constantine. The Church is seen, then, as a continuation of the Israel of the Old Testament. Although modern commentators eschew allegory as a method of interpretation, Lyra's historical significance can not be discounted, especially in his knowledge of and openness to Jewish writers. This book contains the original latin text and an accurate translation of it into English. There is also a useful introduction outlining the context and significance of de Lyra's work. At just under 130 pages, this is a succint commentary, covering the whole Song, well paced, without unnecessary detours away from the text of the Song of Songs. Those who read latin will find in Lyra a capable and appealing writer, at least in comparison to his fellow biblical commentators. This book is part of a series (Reformation Texts with Translation), which although in early stages of development, on the strength of this work, appears promising. As someone who has read a lot of commentaries on the Song of Songs, this is certainly one of the best.