The fullest commentary on Daniel in English in 65 years, this is especially strong on symbolic imagery, taking advantage of the most recent studies in apocalyptical literature, the Pseudepigrapha, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. 499 pages, hardcover.
"This text does not have a wasted page.The commentary is so comprehensive, erudite, and balanced in judgment that it is difficult to perceive any gaps in its coverage. . With this commentary, the Hermeneia series adds a major new contribution to biblical scholarship."-Lawrence M. Wills Journal of Religion
John J. Collins is Holmes Professor of Old Testament Criticism and Interpretation at Yale Divinity School and author of many works including Encounters with Biblical Theology.
Average Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars(3.5 out of 5 stars)
4 of 4 Reviews Showing:
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Jason Merritt (Fort Worth, TX), September 01, 2007
In the literature on apocalypticism and apocalyptic writings, there is very little of a moderate nature; scholars tend toward a highly critical reading of the texts or a dispensationalist one. Collins' commentary falls easily into the former category and, as critical treatments of Daniel go, I think it is the best treatment to be offered in the last 50-75 years. More conservative readers of scripture, however, should not be fearful of Collins or too dismissive of his work. Whether one agrees with his assessment of authorship/redaction and dating of the text, he is quite erudite when it comes to apocalyptic symbolism and imagery, as well as quite informative regarding the social setting of apocalyptic movements. Whichever end of the theological spectrum one happens to occupy, Collins' commentary should prove quite informative.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Jeremy (Huntington, WV), October 30, 2006
I agree with Chris. This book is definitely worth the buy if you are interested in studying the book of Daniel. Even though I disagree with Collins view of the date of writing and authorship, I still think its an excellent, scholarly work. Its good to be able to understand the critical arguments from liberal writers and authors so that you can combat them. Collins is fair and accurate to both sides. Anyone who studies the book of Daniel and does not consult this source will be seriously lacking. I would also recommend Millers work on Daniel from the NAC commentary series for those of you that want a more conservative viewpoint with little interaction from the liberal scholarship.
4 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Chris (Phoenix, AZ), January 16, 2004
Although I (and other reviewers) might disagree with Collin's denial of Daniel's authorship, this is still perhaps the best commentary on the book of Daniel. Evangelicals need not be unnecessarily scared of liberal scholarship. Collin's late date of Daniel does not negate the rest of this work. I applaud CBD for carrying such a valuable tool to unlocking the book of Daniel!
0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Ryan (Elk Grove, CA), October 11, 2002
This is a horrible book! The man teaches that Daniel didn't write the book of Daniel, when it is clearly shown in scripture that he is the author (Eze 14:14, 14:20, 28:3; Mat 24:15, etc.). It is sad to see books like this in Christian bookstores.
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