Justice: A Biblical Perspective
"The classic vocation of a biblical scholar is to render the text intelligible for contemporary readers and communities of faith. Carol Dempsey fulfills that vocation admirably in this reflection on justice in the biblical traditions. She articulates the diverse biblical witness in constructive ways as a basis for the work today's believing communities need to do on this theme. The connections she draws between justice and hospitality and justice and the environment are especially fruitful. The volume provides much food for thought."--W. H. Bellinger, Jr., Baylor University"Dr. Carol Dempsey has written a very readable book surveying some of the unique features of biblical justice. This book goes beyond the historical descriptions of ancient law or works that focus only on human justice. Dempsey, instead, paints a picture of the implications of the Bible's view of justice. She points out that, in both the Old and New Testament, justice requires hospitality and compassion for humans and non-humans alike, especially for the weak and the vulnerable. This justice leads to the realization of a true peace for the world. This book would be especially well-suited for church groups and Bible studies wanting to explore the biblical roots of social justice."--Corinne Carvalho, author ofEncountering Ancient Voices"Dempsey has provided a vehicle for reflection that calls on readers to carefully examine the biblical text within its social and historical contexts. She encourages us to consider how the concepts of justice as presented in scripture can inform current situations. It is in this ongoing dialogue with her readers that Dempsey challenges them to take a careful look at how injustice can be faced and dealt with constructively, while respecting the basic dignity of all of life and all of creation."--Victor H. Matthews, author ofStudying the Ancient Israelites