Synopses & Reviews
John's Revelation has led to countless diverse and divergent interpretations. Readers' cryptic notions of violent end-time scenarios, strict prophetic truths, and encouragement for the faithful have undeniably colored the book's reception through the centuries. In Visions of the Apocalypse, Bruce Chilton maps the ways in which the text has been read through the centuries and introduces these main interpretations of Revelation, such as Papias' millenarian kingdom, Augustine's vertical ascent to heaven, Origen's transcendent message, and Dionysius' belief in Revelation's hidden message. Visions of the Apocalypse provides the ways in which Revelation has been read and suggests to today's readers the strategies for understanding John's Revelation in a contemporary context.
Review
"Bruce Chilton provides us with a creative and coherent narrative of how and why various textual approaches to interpreting Revelation emerged--and have remained with us, often in updated cultural garb. Scholars and students alike will greatly benefit from his thoroughly researched and insightful work."
--Michael J. Gorman, Raymond E. Brown Professor of Biblical Studies and Theology, St. Mary's Seminary and University
Review
"
Visions of the Apocalypse offers readers a respectful, engaging, and insightful description of the major interpretations of the Apocalypse throughout church history, rooting each of these perspectives in their respective historical settings. Bruce Chilton has provided a fine treatment of various perspectives on the Apocalypse both for now and the future."
--C. Marvin Pate, Chair of Theology, Ouachita Baptist University
Review
"In Visions of the Apocalypse an articulate master scholar tackles a fascinating subject in an inviting and enjoyable way. Interpreters through history have both resonated with and misappropriated some of the visions in Revelation; the history of interpretation helps us revisit the ancient book in a fresh way."
--Craig S. Keener, Professor of New Testament, Asbury Theological Seminary
Synopsis
Tracing the ways Revelation has been read through the ages
About the Author
Bruce Chilton is Bernard Iddings Bell Professor of Religion at Bard College in Annandale, New York. He is the author or editor of several volumes, including The Targums: A Critical Introduction and In Quest of the Historical Pharisees.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1 A Thousand Years of Joy
2 Transcendent Power
3 Oracle of Redemption
4 War with the Antichrist
5 The Progress of the Saints
6 Hell on Earth
7 Visions in Patmos, and Beyond
Notes