A Royal Priesthood: Literary and Intertextual Perspectives on an Image of Israel in Exodus 19.6 by John Davies

John Davies, A Royal Priesthood: Literary and Intertextual Perspectives on an Image of Israel in Exodus 19.6, Bloomsbury, 2004.

This book examines the portrayal of Israel as a royal-priestly nation within Exodus and against the background of biblical and ancient Near Eastern thought. Central to the work is a literary study of Exodus 19:4-6 and a demonstration of the pivotal role these verses and their main image have within Exodus. This elective and honorific designation of Yahweh’s cherished people has a particular focus on the privilege of access to him in his heavenly temple. The paradigm of the royal grant of privileged status has profound implications for our understanding of the Sinai covenant.

“”important study”   “…a number of interesting insights”   “careful literary and intertextual analysis”   “Davies’ patient exegesis opens up fruitful areas for further biblical theological reflection.”   Letter and Spirit, vol 1 2005, St Paul Center for Biblical Theology”

“”This very critical study investigates the meaning of the theme “a royal priesthood,” along with its importance in the identity of the people… Davies hopes that his work will stimulate a new examination of the New Testament’s use of this theme. This is a fine but very specialized study.”- The Bible Today, January/February 2006” –  Bible Today, The

About the author: Dr John Davies is Principal Emeritus of Christ College in Sydney. He holds a MDiv from Westminster Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D.in Semitic Studies from the University of Sydney.

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