Words and the Word: Explorations in Biblical Interpretation and Literary Theory

In recent decades scholarly study of the Bible has taken a literary turn. Now literary theory has taken its place at the hermeneutical table and demands a voice in the conversation. Words and the Word, edited by David Firth and Jamie A. Grant, offers eight informative and stimulating essays that will bring readers abreast of this conversation. This volume's contributors are united in their belief that a proper understanding of key aspects of literary theory can make a significant contribution to biblical interpretation. Their essays survey general issues in the field, take a look at some specific approaches, and outline the relevance and contribution these make to the task of biblical interpretation. Students of biblical interpretation who have moved beyond the basics will find Words and the Word to be a wonderful introduction to the major ideas, methods and thinkers in literary interpretation of the Bible.

David G. Firth is director of studies and lecturer in Old Testament at St. John's College in Nottingham, England. He is the author of 1 & 2 Samuel (Apollos Old Testament Commentary) and The Message of Esther, and coeditor of Interpreting the Psalms, Interpreting Isaiah and Words & the Word.

Jamie A. Grant (Ph.D., University of Gloucestershire) is lecturer in biblical studies at Highland Theological College in Dingwall, Scotland. He is author of The King as Exemplar: The Function of Deuteronomy's Kingship Law in the Shaping of the Book of Psalms.