Monday, January 27, 2014

The Vine and the Son of Man: Eschatological Interpretation of Psalm 80 in Early Judaism

 
The Vine and the Son of Man (Fortress Press, 2014)

by Andrew D. Streett
 
Editorial Reviews

"An engaging and persuasive study. Andrew Streett demonstrates that Psalm 80 had a much greater impact upon the writers of the New Testament than recognised hitherto. The Vine and the Son of Man is an important work that should be required reading for everyone interested in the relationship of the Old and New Testaments." (Nathan MacDonald, University of Cambridge)
 
"In this fine study, Andrew Streett examines the reception history of Psalm 80 in ancient Jewish and Christian literature. In particular, Streett shows how Psalm 80 contributes to the Johannine conception of the Son of Man as the one who actualizes the destiny of Israel. Streett has provided an exemplary survey of Psalm 80, which plots the various interpretations that emerged and shows how Psalm 80 provided scriptural impetus for New Testament Christology. The Vine and the Son of Man is a finely written study for anyone interested in biblical intertextuality." (Michael F. Bird, Ridley Melbourne Mission & Ministry College).
 
"Andrew Streett here makes a compelling case that the influence of Psalm 80, despite the fact that it is never directly quoted, can be inferred in several NT tropes, especially the 'vine' image and the 'Son of Man.' The psalm may even have been instrumental in the convergence of several strands of the 'Son of Man' idea evinced in the Gospel tradition. Streett's study therefore helps resolve one of the great enigmas of NT scholarship: the roots and meaning of the 'Son of Man' in the teaching of Jesus." (Dan G. McCartney, Redeemer Seminary).
 
"Andrew Streett traces the trajectories of Psalm 80's interpretive journey with methodological rigor, a mastery of the primary texts, and original proposals at every turn. He exposes the great diversity of eschatological interpretations given to this text due to its intriguing content and inherent ambiguity. This is a must read for anyone investigating early interpretation of the psalms, Christological use of the Old Testament, or the Son of Man problem." ( William S. Campbell, University of Wales, Trinity Saint David).
 
"In this meticulous, balanced, and commendably clear study, Andrew Streett argues that the redaction history and subsequent interpretations of Psalm 80 increasingly emphasised the psalm's latent eschatological and messianic potential. Displaying an impressive grasp of ancient Jewish literature, Streett makes a careful and compelling case for the psalm's hitherto neglected significance as a source for the Son of Man figure in Daniel and influence on Mark's presentation of the Passion and vindication of Jesus." (Paul Middleton, University of Chester).
 
"In this interesting and well-written book Andrew Streett calls to our attention the importance of Psalm 80 for early Jewish and Christian eschatology and messianism. He has investigated with care the intriguing history of interpretation of this far too often overlooked psalm. The result is a rich and perceptive study that advances research in significant ways. The Vine and the Son of Man makes a number of original contributions that must be taken into account." (Craig A. Evans, Acadia University).

About the Author

Andrew Streett is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Redeemer Seminary in Austin, Texas. This volume is a revision of his dissertation, completed at the University of Wales Trinity St. David under the direction of William S. Campbell and Kathy Ehrensperger.

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