This book successfully mines the rich theology of Passover through fresh exegesis, reading the text according to ancient Hebrew literary conventions. Numbers 3:13 indicates that, during Passover, Yahweh consecrated the firstborn. But how did he do this? Through a close reading of the final form of the text and sensitivity to ancient Hebrew style, author Andrew J. Gehrig notes the connections between Passover and other rituals in Exodus. He suggests that Passover is a ritual that not only rescues the firstborn from death through sacrifice, but also purifies and sanctifies them. The firstborn are moved from the realm of death to life and, after being imbued with holiness, made fit to enjoy Yahweh's presence. Continuing with his literary approach, the author explores how Passover contributes to the overall narrative of Exodus. He concludes with reflections on the importance of Passover in biblical theological interpretation, including how Exodus establishes a paradigm of salvation that is fulfilled in Christ.
Through his literary and theological approach, the author leads the reader to a far deeper understanding of this famous passage, grounded in faithful biblical exegesis. Scholars, pastors, and educated laypeople will enjoy this groundbreaking study.
'Centred on Passover, God's deliverance of the Israelites from captivity in Egypt is the great salvation event of the Old Testament. Yet the theological dimension of Passover has received little attention. Dr Gehrig's monograph fills this major hiatus.' (T. Desmond Alexander, Union Theological College, Belfast)
'A deeply satisfying study. Further, its writing style is incredibly clear--perhaps the crowning achievement!' (C. John Collins, Covenant Theological Seminary)
'Here is a book that is long overdue. Paying close attention to narrative features that have previously been misinterpreted or ignored, Gehrig demonstrates how important these are for a holistic interpretation of one of Scripture's most seminal texts, as well as its theological significance. Those wanting a comprehensive and engaging discussion of the Passover narrative need look no further.' (Paul Williamson, Moore College, Sydney)
'The author provides an in depth literary and theological study based on poetics that avoids the atomistic approach of earlier scholarship and recovers a superior understanding of the function and meaning of Exodus 12-13. This study is a major step forward.' (Peter J. Gentry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary)
'Offering a synchronic reading that integrates the whole Passover narrative, Gehrig offers a persuasive reading for seeing it as a consecration ritual. An important development in how we read this crucial text, this book will need to be consulted by all who are working on the book of Exodus as well as those studying the Passover more specifically.' (David G. Firth, Trinity College Bristol)
'This is a superb study of the Passover rite in the Old Testament and its theological significance. It deserves a wide readership!' (Stephen G. Dempster, Crandall University)
'Andrew Gehrig has given us a careful literary and theological analysis of the Passover narrative, demonstrating both its unity and its significance in biblical theology.' (Duane A. Garrett, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary)
'This meticulous study carefully unpacks the theological significance of the Passover narrative. While this is a work of scholarship that involves detailed argumentation, it is accessible and clearly written. The conclusions are convincing and supported by the evidence provided from a wide range of sources.' (James McKeown, Belfast Bible College)
'The author makes a compelling argument that reading the text as it is presented--with careful attention to its poetics--elucidates the theology of the story as a consecration ritual. Future investigations into this important topic will have to reckon with Gehrig's stimulating work.' - John Lei, Malaysia Baptist Theological Seminary
