Description
Book SynopsisIlluminating the ethical legacy of the biblical prophets,
Path of the Prophets identifies the prophetic moment in the lives of eighteen biblical figures and demonstrates their compelling relevance to us today. Schwartz introduces the prophets with creative, first-person retellings of their decisive experiences, followed by key biblical narratives, context, and analysis.
Trade Review"Schwartz's new book works as both an intelligent class textbook, complete with appended study guide, and absorbing personal reading."—Ray Olson,
Booklist"Rabbi Barry L. Schwartz identifies
the prophetic moment in the lives of the eighteen biblical figures that we know as the Prophets and he shows us their relevance today in his new book."—
Reviews by Amos Lassen"An enjoyable, thought-provoking, and revelatory book. While the intended audience might be Jewish, I can say, as a Christian pastor, this book will speak important truths to Christians as well. This wonderfully written book explores the ethical implications of the spiritual life in conversation with eighteen persons found in the Hebrew Bible."—Robert Cornwall,
Ponderings on a Faith Journal"This title would be a fine addition to any collection used by adult readers."—Arthur G. Quinn,
Association of Jewish Libraries Reviews“
Path of the Prophets is the most significant new contribution to our understanding of the prophets so far in the twenty-first century—filled with new insights, important for Jewish scholarship, and a joy to read for anyone who has ever grappled with the meaning and contemporary relevance of the Bible.”—Rabbi Michael Lerner, editor of
Tikkun magazine
“Rabbi Schwartz brings new life to the men and women of the Bible, ordinary people who did extraordinary things—and challenges us to do the same, to make the most of life’s journey.”—Rabbi Sally J. Priesand, author of
Judaism and the New Woman “The prophets call us passionately to justice—but, alas, the prophetic books are not easy to understand. Schwartz has done the seemingly impossible by delving clearly into the prophets’ ethical dilemmas and urging readers to face those injustices of yesterday and today. As we yearn for religious voices that will challenge entrenched ideologies, this is a desperately needed volume.”—Rabbi Eric Yoffie, president emeritus, Union for Reform Judaism
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments
About This Book
Preface: Why the Prophets?
Introduction: The Ethics-Driven Life
Part 1. To Do Justly
1. Abraham’s Argument: The Path of Protest
2. Shiphrah’s Defiance: The Path of Civil Disobedience
3. Moses’ Encounter: The Path of Freedom
4. Tirzah’s Challenge: The Path of Equality
5. Samuel’s Warning: The Path of Rebuke
6. Nathan’s Parable: The Path of Righteousness
Part 2. To Love Mercy
7. Judah’s Step Forward: The Path of Repentance
8. Joseph’s Cry: The Path of Forgiveness
9. Ruth’s Vow: The Path of Kindness
10. Elisha’s Invitation: The Path of Healing
11. Jeremiah’s Scroll: The Path of Hope
12. Jonah’s Lesson: The Path of Compassion
Part 3. To Walk Humbly
13. Miriam’s Celebration: The Path of Joy
14. Caleb’s Spirit: The Path of Faith
15. Hannah’s Prayer: The Path of Prayer
16. Elijah’s Voice: The Path of Humility
17. Isaiah’s Vision: The Path of Peace
18. Ezra’s Torah: The Path of Wisdom
A Prophetic Glossary
Study Guide: Living the Bible
Notes
Bibliography
