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AUSTRALIAN BIBLICAL REVIEW
ISSN 0045-0308 |
BOOK REVIEW Published in Volume 51, 2003
K. H. Jobes and M. Silva, Invitation to the
Septuagint (Carlisle: Paternoster/Grand Rapids: Baker, 2000). Pp. 351.
The opening chapters of this book, by Karen H. Jobes and Moisés Silva,
serve as a general introduction to the ancient Greek translations of the
Jewish Scriptures. Basic issues are covered in a lively manner to convey
the importance of the study of the Septuagint and the avenues into which
it leads, as well as the complexity of the evidence.
The second part of the book assumes familiarity with biblical studies as
well as some knowledge of biblical languages, especially Greek. All major
aspects of Septuagintal research are covered. One of the great strengths
throughout is the way in which specific examples are judiciously discussed,
sometimes at length and with the Greek and Hebrew texts supplied. Another
feature is the wealth of bibliographical information in the footnotes and
at the end of each chapter so that the student is given clear and up-to-date
information about where to go with regard to each area of research. The usefulness
of the book is well illustrated by Chapter 10, in which the authors examine
in detail Genesis 4:1–8, Isaiah 52:13–53:12 and Esther 5:1–2 with Additional
D.
Part three begins with fascinating biographical sketches of scholarly giants
of previous generations and then provides an up-to-date survey of current
research. One appendix describes major organisations and research projects
and another lists major reference works, including computer software.
Overall, this is a superb book to encourage and enable the study of the Septuagint
in depth, while avoiding pitfalls of inexperienced use along the way.
Review by
Rt Rev. Dr John W. Wilson
Anglican Centre
Melbourne, Victoria
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