Description
Book SynopsisIn The Dynamics of Human Life in the Bible: Receptivity and Power, Martin J. Buss describes the dynamics of human life that are encouraged in the Bible and how biblical guidance compares with other religious traditions. The dynamics include both receptivity (“from” another) and power (“for” or “over” another), often in combination (“with” another). For example, love joins receptive cognition of worth with energetic support. Receptivity, the only way to deal with fundamental values, seeks material and religious benefits and is the human side of revelation and salvation. Public acknowledgement strengthens divine influence. Furthermore, receptivity accepts challenges. These include individual and social growth and semi-identification with others, which has societal rather than concrete individual consequences. Power is crucial in legal remedies and penalties. Life with others is important in practical “wisdom” and in Christian “mutual love.” Busse finds that biblical directives parallel those of non-Christian religious traditions. This situation is in line with biblical views of general revelation and developments in history.
Table of ContentsChapter 1: Basic Perspectives on Reality
Chapter 2: Receiving Benefits in the Hebrew Bible
Chapter 3: Challenges: Major Issues
Chapter 4: Positively Good Social Life
Chapter 5: Remedial Actions in the Hebrew Bible
Chapter 6: Defense of Communal Integrity
Chapter 7: Rituals
Chapter 8: Advice about Flourishing with Others: Proverbs
Chapter 9: Realistic Assessments of Life
Chapter 10: The Background of the Christian Testament
Chapter 11: Receiving Benefits in the Christian Testament
Chapter 12: Receiving Challenges in the Christian Testament
