The Old Testament and Process Theology

In many ways, this careful analysis is an overture to Old Testament theology, covering the major themes of the Hebrew Bible. This welcome cross-disciplinary study deftly shows the extent to which current theological understandings of the Old Testament often resonate with process categories. At the same time, Gnuse shows how the latter open up even wider vistas in our efforts to probe the heart of the biblical message. --Terence E. Fretheim, Luther Seminary Robert Gnuse writes with a fine knowledge of the Hebrew Scriptures and of process theology. He observes that many process themes have already been noted by scholars of the Hebrew Scriptures, and he is especially persuasive in showing how a process perspective can disclose the power of these scriptures to today’s readers. --William A. Beardslee, Emory University emeritus, and Director of the Process and Faith Programs, Center for Process Studies This book carries thought about the relation of contemporary theology and the Old Testament to a new level. Gnuse sees that as we enter a new epoch of thought, we have new opportunities to integrate contemporary thinking with our understanding of ancient Hebrew history, with such biblical doctrines as God, creation, covenant, and prophecy, and also with the history of transmission of the texts. He sees process theology as articulating the contemporary mind and offering the chance to integrate that with cutting-edge Old Testament scholarship. What has previously been proposed in bits and pieces is here spelled out with systematic thoroughness. --John B. Cobb, Jr., Claremont School of Theology

Robert Gnuse is the James C. Carter, SJ/Bank One Distinguished Professor of the Humanities in the Religious Studies Department at Loyola University New Orleans. He is the author of twelve books and approximately eighty articles in the field of biblical studies.