Read more
This book draws together two current issues in Old Testament study: canonical analysis and the minor prophets. G. Michael O'Neal applies the canonical approach of Brevard S. Childs to the book of Habakkuk, resulting not only in an evaluation of Childs's method, but also providing new insights into the canonical shape and theological message of Habakkuk. The findings of textual, historical, literary, formal, and redactional criticisms inform the study. However, O'Neal goes beyond these findings to ascertain the canonical shape of Habakkuk and to illustrate how this shape informs an understanding of the book's theological message.
Report
"The prophetic voice in the book of Habakkuk has sometimes been described as perplexed, because of the difficulty of understanding the ways of God in history. Regardless of the mind of the prophet, the small book has been perplexing for commentators because of its numerous problems of text and exegesis. G. Michael O'Neal has cut through the tangle of interpretative questions with a critical and positive application of canonical criticism. The serious reader will find a comprehensive study of the book and its message, written in a style that is not hard to read. The literature on Habakkuk has grown in recent years, and O'Neal's book belongs among the best efforts to interpret the book. I would recommend 'Interpreting Habakkuk as Scripture' to any interested reader." (Marvin E. Tate, Senior Professor of Old Testament, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky)
