Assis' analysis of Joel is positive and erudite. First, his connection between Joel and Lamentations is innovative and suggestive. This connection is worthy of further study. Second, Assis' discussion of compositional and literary techniques is enlightening. His assertion that, in places, the author of Joel is intentionally ambiguous is interesting and his careful attention to the minute details of the Hebrew texts is helpful. Third, his structural analysis of the entire book and each individual text segment aids in organizing such a complex book. Fourth, Assis' largely synchronic approach allows him to focus on the interpretive issues that are pertinent to his theological reading... Assis' volume exemplifies a careful synchronic reading of Joel. His interaction with major commentators makes his study an excellent companion to commentary literature. For those interested in composition and structural analysis of prophetic literature or those working with the book of Joel directly, I recommend this volume. -- Garrick Vernon Allen, University of St Andrews * Reviews in Religion and Theology *
Elie Assis has written extensively on the biblical material which he regards as having emerged from that vital period in Israel's history-the sixth and fifth centuries BCE. Fourteen previously published books and articles are listed in the bibliography, and three of the chapters in the present volume are substantially reprints of some of that earlier work. What is here offered is therefore not a commentary, though the whole Hebrew text of Joel, along with an English translation, is included; and any danger that the inclusion of previously published material would break the flow of the final work has been skilfully avoided. Assis has been consistent in his view of the historical situation and the way that it has shaped the response to it as it is enshrined in the Hebrew Bible. -- Richard Coggins * Journal of Theological Studies (Vol. 64.2) *
This book represents a large amount of careful research through a large block of material in the Hebrew Bible, and so C. is to be congratulated on this work. It will prove to be an additional resource for those interested in the subject of prophecy in general and the intricacies of fulfillment of predictive prophecy and lack thereof in particular. The book is written in very readable prose, and ample footnotes throughout provide the reader with a solid research paper trail [...] C's book will prove to be a strong contribution to the field and a must read for scholar's and student interested in biblical prophecy and the theology of the Deuteronomistic history. -- Jason Bember * Catholic Biblical Quarterly *
