A theological examination of symbolism in Ezekiel with emphasis on the shepherd metaphor
By: Joel K.T. Biwul
Publisher: Langham Monographs
Published: 2013
Place of publication: Carlisle
Language: eng
Number of pages: 310
ISBN-13: 9781783689965; 9781783689958; 9781783689941
Subjects: Bible; Judaism; Jews; Criticism, interpretation; Metaphor in the Bible; Shepherds in the Bible; Prophecies; Language, style; Symbolism; Prophecy; History
Description: The use of symbolic and metaphoric expressions is common in the literary convention of Jewish prophetism. Ezekiel holds true to this prophetic tradition in his use of symbolic sign-acts, particularly the shepherd metaphor found in chapter 34. Addressing the subject of failed leadership in secular and sacred domains, the author points to Ezekiel's use of symbolism and the shepherd motif to show what society stands to lose under bad leadership and governance. The author show Ezekiel uses this symbolism to not only highlight the failures of human shepherds but to give hope to the communities they have failed. One day God will shepherd his people into a perfect and tranquil society. --
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (pages 293-310).
Table of contents: title: Ezekiel's use of symbolism and the shepherd metaphor; title: The historical and literary contexts for the shepherd metaphor in Ezekiel 34; title: Ezekiel's shepherd metaphor and the norms of Deuteronomic theology; title: A case for eschatological shepherding in Ezekiel 34; title: Ezekiel's theology of an eschatological shepherd and the new society.