God and Temple: The Idea of the Divine Presence in Ancient Israel - Softcover

Clements, Ronald Ernest

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1498299407 ISBN 13: 9781498299404

Publisher: Wipf and Stock, 2016

Synopsis

The temple of Jerusalem became the center in ancient Israel of a whole group of concepts concerning the divine presence. It was regarded as the very dwelling place of God, the earthly throne of the heavenly King. In order to understand the origin of this belief, Dr. Clements examines the Canaanite notions of divine dwelling-places, and the early ideas of God's presence in Israel. The origins of the Israelite temple in Jerusalem are then considered, and the nature of its rites and symbolism. Particular attention is given to the relationship between the temple of the Davidic monarchy and its significance for the political history of the Israelite nation. The destruction of the temple in 586 BC severely challenged the traditional views about its meaning and led ultimately to great changes in the Jewish understanding of the divine presence. Jerusalem, and the religious ideas surrounding it, became increasingly part of an eschatological hope. Dr. Clements shows how this was important for the early Christian church, which rejected the Jerusalem temple, and which asserted that the divine presence had been revealed to man in Jesus Christ and was experienced in the church through the Holy Spirit.

About this title

About the Author

R. E. Clements is Samuel Davidson Professor of Old Testament Studies at King's College, London. His many books include Old Testament Prophecy, Studies in the Book of Isaiah, and Wisdom for a Changing World.

Edition details

• Publisher: Wipf and Stock
• Publication date: 2016
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1498299407
• ISBN 13: 9781498299404
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 176