Karel van der Toorn, God in Context: Selected Essays on Society and Religion in the Early Middle East

Abstract

Hamilton considers the Scriptures concerning marriage and how they typify the “relationship that God will enter into with his people” (p. 305). Hamilton’s Typology is sure to be a standard reference in biblical studies for years to come. The sheer amount of textual evidence that Hamilton brought to the table in support of his arguments is remarkable. One of the most fascinating, and commendable, aspects of the book is how he arranged it as a chiasm. Biblical authors often used this design in their writings, and Hamilton’s usage of the chiasm structure helps to reveal how important it is to scriptural understanding. One of the book’s shortcomings is that it is written on an academic level, giving it less appeal to those on the popular level. Anyone who desires to better understand Scripture would be remiss in not adding it to their reading list.