Power Search
Low Price Guarantee
We Take School POs
Adam and Eve in Scripture, Theology, and Literature: Sin, Compassion, and Forgiveness
Contributor(s): Ely, Peter B. (Author)

View larger image

 ISBN: 1498573916     ISBN-13: 9781498573917
Publisher: Lexington Books
OUR PRICE: $53.54  

Binding Type: Paperback - See All Available Formats & Editions
Published: September 2019
Qty:
Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- Religion | Philosophy
- Religion | Biblical Criticism & Interpretation - Old Testament
- Religion | Biblical Criticism & Interpretation - New Testament
Dewey: 222.110
Physical Information: 0.78" H x 6" W x 9" L (1.13 lbs) 348 pages
Themes:
- Religious Orientation - Christian
Features: Bibliography
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:
Adam and Eve in Scripture, Theology, and Literature: Sin, Compassion, and Forgiveness is an extended consideration of the narrative of Adam and Eve, first seen in the Hebrew Bible but given new life by St. Paul in the New Testament. Paul's treatment of Adam and Eve, especially his designation of Christ as a second Adam, has had an enormous influence in Christianity. Peter Ely follows this rich narrative as it develops in history, providing the basis of the doctrine of original sin in Christianity, giving rise in modern times to theological speculation, and entering thematically into mysticism and literature. The power of the adamic narrative can only be realized if one treats it as a true but non-historical myth. The "truth" of the myth lies in its ability to stimulate thinking and so reveal the depths of human experience. Augustine understood that, so did Julian of Norwich, and even the Belgian author of mystery stories, Georges Simenon, who had a deep sense of the universality of human weakness and the possibilities of redeeming what was lost. Simenon's detective Maigret saw himself as a "mender of destinies." The doctrine of original sin, the notion that human beings share a common vulnerability, can open the way to compassion and forgiveness. As Shakespeare illustrates in Measure for Measure, the awareness of weakness in ourselves should move us to compassion for others. The recognition of a kind of "democracy of sin" can keep us from considering ourselves better than others, unlike them in their weakness, and entitled to stand in judgment of them. Thus, compassion opens the door to forgiveness. The progress from sin to compassion to forgiveness forms the heart of this work.
 
Customer ReviewsSubmit your own review
 
To tell a friend about this book, you must Sign In First!