Crisis and Catharsis: The Power of the Apocalypse

by Adela Yarbro Collins

For the first time in complete form, the results of recent analyses of the Apocalypse are presented in a way that is easily understood by the beginning student and challenging to the scholar looking for a fresh approach. In a clear and vivid manner, Adela Yarbro Collins discusses the authorship of the book of Revelation, when it was written, the situation it addressed, the social themes it considered, and the psychological meaning behind apocalyptic language.

Genres: Religion, Theology, Christianity, Nonfiction

180 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1984

Reviews

[Einschrein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tim LaHaye fans will not find this book to their liking, but they should read it (I'm going to read his "version" of Revelation). But for those not concerned about the so-called imminent "rapture," this book provides a scholarly critical interpretation of the text, a story as old the hills: "We are being persecuted by the big, bad, powerful government, but we shall overcome because we are allied with God (and our God is bigger than your god); we will circle the Lamb in Heaven, and you will be destroyed!" The big, bad and powerful here is Rome for their greed and licentiousness - today, this story would be told about the US. Yet the the story remains the same...different time, different players.

[David · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm not sure how helpful this book has been to my understanding of Revelation but it has helped me understand the modern academic approach to the book. There was a decent discussion of the authorship, date, and setting but because Ms. Collins is committed to a critical reading of the text multiple possibilities are closed off from her (that John could have prophesied during Nero's reign, that he actually had a vision of Christ and received inspiration from the Holy Spirit are all a priori rejected as too precritical). Thanks for the condescending pat on the head Ms. Collins, I hope that your attempts to judge the Apocalypse based on your "own critically interpreted present experience" have helped you humanize and love others in such a way that there has been no judgment of the others' own attempts at humanization, justice, and love. Because it would be a shame to hurt Babylon's feelings.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Scholar - Must Read on the Book of Revelation!