This book presents a thorough study of Old Testament Theology, exploring its origins, development, and contemporary relevance. It examines key theological themes, while addressing major questions concerning the unity or plurality of OT theologies, the existence of a theological center, and the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. Attention is given to religion, culture, politics, and power shaped Israel’s theological expressions. Highlighting influential scholars and evolving methodologies, this volume serves as a valuable resource for students, pastors, and scholars seeking to understand the theological depth and diversity of the Hebrew Scriptures.

Contents

Preface

Chapter 1: Introduction

The Nature, Purposes, Task, Scope and Method of Old Testament Theology

a) Old Testament Theology and Scholastic Orthodoxy
b) Old Testament Theology and Pietism
c) Old Testament Theology and Rationalism

Chapter 2: Important Old Testament Theologians

a) Otto Procksch
b) Robert Dentan
c) G. Ernest Wright
d) Edmond Jacob
e) Theodore C. Vriezen
f) Walter Eichrodt
g) Gerhard von Rad

Old Testament Theology Since 1970

a) John L. McKenzie
b) Ronald E. Clements
c) Walter Zimmerli
d) Claus Westermann
e) Walter C. Kaiser
f) Brevard S. Childs
g) Walter Bruggemann
h) Chris Wright
i) John Goldingay
j) Bruce K. Waltke
k) Leo G. Perdue

Chapter 3: Few Continuing Methods and Approaches Issues in the Discipline of OT Theology

a) Plurality of Old Testament Theologies
b) The Problem of History Tradition and Story
c) The Problem of Centre of the OT
d) The Relationship between the Old Testament and New Testament
e) The History of the Israelite Religion and OT Theology
f) The Canon and the OT Theology
g) The Problem of Biblical Theology

Chapter 4: Important Theological Topics in the Old Testament to be Studied in an Integrated and Inter-disciplinary Approach

a) Creation, Stewardship, Responsibility and Role of Women
b) Image of God in Human beings and Equality
c) Covenant
d) Election
e) Promise
f) Liberation
g) Sin and Salvation
h) Suffering
i) Judgement
j) Righteousness
k) Justice
l) Wisdom
m) Law
n) Monarchy
o) Kingship of God
p) Cult and presence of God
q) Prophecy
r) Land
s) Shalom
t) Messiah

Chapter 5: Issues in the Old Testament

a) Henotheism, Monotheism, and Universality of the Kingship of Yahweh
b) Jewish Excluvism: Zion vis a vis Samaria
c) God’s Favor and Wrath
d) Land and Inheritance
e) Punishment and Restoration
f) Blessings and Curses
g) Neighbors and Enemies

Rev. Dr. Joel Joseph, Professor in the department of Old Testament, at New Theological College, Dehradun, India.

He has been involved with BSS and NTC, Dehradun for the past 24 years. Completed the ministry span of 33 years in North India.

He has authored a few books, commentary and few articles in different academic journals. His Doctoral dissertation was published in Germany. He has given his contribution to the Academic committee of the Senate of Serampore. He was an executive member of the Society of Biblical studies in India. He is on the editorial board of the foreign Journal for Biblical studies. He is presently the Dean of Development at New Theological college.

He has a wife named Ruby, daughter Jennifer and son Joshua.