Prophetic Figures in Late Second Temple Jewish Palestine: The Evidence from Josephus [Hardcover]

Rebecca Gray (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 019507615X | ISBN-13: 978-0195076158 | Publication Date: May 6, 1993 | Edition: First Edition

Isolated passages from the writings of Josephus are routinely cited in general studies of early Jewish prophecy, but the present work is the first comprehensive examination of this material. Gray begins with a discussion of the significance of the belief--widely attested in Jewish sources from the late Second Temple period--that prophecy had ceased. She proceeds to outline a general theory about the nature and status of prophecy in this period. Giving careful consideration to the prophetic claims that Josephus makes for himself, she argues that these claims are more substantial and more important for understanding Josephus than is usually thought. Gray goes on to examine Josephus' reports concerning prophecy among the Essenes and Pharisees, and his accounts of the activities of the "sign prophets" and other figures. In every instance, Gray interprets the evidence about prophecy in relation to Josephus' personal career and his thought and work as a whole. Drawing on a range of evidence, much of which has not played a significant role in other studies of early Jewish prophecy, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in Josephus, the history of prophecy in Israel, or the historical Jesus.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"An impressive work which casts fresh light on many major and minor matters through applying a new and consistent perspective to a difficult area. It breaks much new ground, and does so in an agreeable style."--John Barton, Oriel College, Oxford

"This is an excellent piece of work, very well controlled in overall design, and very well prepared in detail. It both takes into account other work in the field and makes an original contribution. The work will be of considerable interest for Christian and Jewish studies."--Fergus Millar, Brasenose College, Oxford

"Significant and readable....The study should be consulted by all those persons interested in the variety of projects which fall somewhere under the rubric of social scientific investigations of the relevant time period."--IOUDAIOS Review

"Thorough and clearly organized work, Gray has done a service to scholarship."--Journal of Theological Studies

"It seems to me that Professor Gray had indeed brought a fresh approach to bear on the religious and political turmoil of the late Second Temple period; and that she has uncovered the need for further research into the attitude of popular circles towards the varieties of prophecy. On both counts this book is to be warmly welcomed."--Le'ela

About the Author

Rebecca Gray is at Davidson College.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA; First Edition edition (May 6, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 019507615X
• ISBN-13: 978-0195076158
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,641,661 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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