Divine Disclosure: An Introduction to Jewish Apocalyptic

by David Syme Russell

The study of apocalyptic has been David Russell's life-work, and over the years, with the discovery of new material and ongoing study, he has reassessed his earlier interpretation in a number of respects. This new book, written with all the freshness that made his Between the Testaments a classic which is still widely read today, provides a short but comprehensive guide to the latest state of research into apocalyptic. After identifying and redefining the literature, Dr. Russell examines the birth and growth of apocalyptic and investigates the reasons for its popularity. He then goes on to consider particular apocalyptic groups and apocalyptic books, the idea of revelation, and the main ideas of apocalyptic. The book ends with a Christian perspective and a discussion of the significance of apocalyptic for today.

Genres: Theology

186 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1992

About the author

Rev Dr David Syme Russell CBE (1916–2010) was a distinguished theologian and author, former Principal of Rawdon College, Leeds, and General Secretary of the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

His is often credited on books as D.S. Russell.

Reviews

[Barry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice introduction to Jewish apocalyptic literature, and Mr. Russell covers most of the bases adequately. Also, this book is very readable and informative. He seems to have a dim view of the authorship of Daniel (taking the stance that it was written close to the time of Jesus) and offers very little insight into the book of Revelation. While I appreciate his concluding message that apocalyptic literature offers two messages: 1) God is in control of history and 2) the goal of history is the Kingdom of God, I find that there is precious little interpretation of apocalyptic literature in this book. Perhaps that is for the better, but this book would be enhanced if a key to major apocalyptic symbols were included.