This republication of a classic work contains a new introduction by Walter Brueggemann that places Gerhard von Rad's work within the context of German theology, Old Testament theology, and the history of interpretation of the Old Testament. In Old Testament Theology, von Rad applies the most advanced results of form criticism to develop a new understanding of the Bible. His original approach is now available once again in English. The Old Testament Library provides fresh and authoritative treatments of important aspects of Old Testament study through commentaries and general surveys. The contributors are scholars of international standing.

Donald Gowan offers a unified reading of the prophetic books, showing that each has a distinctive contribution to make to a central theme. These books--Isaiah through Malachi--respond to three key moments in Israel's history: the end of the Northern Kingdom in 722 BCE, the end of the Southern Kingdom in 587 BCE, and the beginning of the restoration from the Babylonian exile in 538 BCE. Gowan traces the theme of death and resurrection throughout these accounts, finding a symbolic message of particular significance to Christian interpreters of the Bible.

Essential books for the serious student of the Old Testament.... It is scarcely possible to read von Rad without having the understanding and enjoyment of the Old Testament greatly increased. No serious student of the Bible at the level of theological student or minister can afford not to read him' (Theology). 'A work of commanding range and penetration. . . . The skilful translation has made von Flad's book accessible to a greatly enlarged circle of readers. This, the most distinctive of modern Old Testament Theologies, has already exercised and will continue to exercise a profound influence on the study of the Old Testament' (The Expository Times). Until his death, Gerhard von Rad was Professor of Old Testament in the University of Heidelberg. The companion to this volume is Vol 1: The Theology of Israel's Historical Traditions.