Mesopotamian Civilization and the Origins of the New Testament
Mesopotamian Civilization and the Origins of the New Testament
In this ground-breaking study, Robin Baker investigates the contribution ancient Mesopotamian theology made to the origins of Christianity. Drawing on a formidable range of primary sources, Baker's conclusions challenge the widely held opinion that the theological imprint of Babylonia and Assyria on the New Testament is minimal, and what Mesopotamian legacy it contains was mediated by the Hebrew Bible and ancient Jewish sources. After evaluating and substantially supplementing previous research on this mediation, Baker demonstrates significant direct Mesopotamian influence on the New Testament presentation of Jesus and particularly the character of his kingship. He also identifies likely channels of transmission. Baker documents substantial differences among New Testament authors in borrowing Mesopotamian conceptions to formulate their Christology. This monograph is an essential resource for specialists and students of the New Testament as well as for scholars interested in religious transmission in the ancient Near East and the afterlife of Mesopotamian culture.
- Provides a deeper and richer understanding of the New Testament, significantly supplementing information from Hebrew Biblical, Jewish and Classical sources
- Examines the channels by which Mesopotamian ideology, theology and mythology reached New Testament authors
- Demonstrates a considerable diversity in reception of that material between New Testament writers and offers explanations for the diversity
Reviews & endorsements
'This book … repays careful reading page after page. It showcases the author's substantial learning which spans multiple Ancient Near Eastern cultures as well as broad scholarship on both biblical Testaments … Baker has sufficiently demonstrated, with considerable detail and erudition, that significant light may be shed on the New Testament writings through looking eastward from Jerusalem, and not merely to the West.' Ian Boxall, New Directions
'A massive work of detailed and meticulous scholarship, this book is an extraordinary and unique contribution to New Testament Studies. Exceptionally informative, impressively organized, soundly documented, accessibly organized, It will prove to be of immense value to readers with an interest in the impact of ancient Assyria, Babylonia & Sumer legends, folklore, mythologies, and beliefs on the formation of a Christianity emerging from its Judaic origins.' Jack Mason, Midwest Book Review
'Baker has produced a volume that is remarkably creative and will spawn further thought, whether one agrees or disagrees with his specific conclusions. Readers will benefit from Baker's creativity, intelligence, and insights, regardless of how his larger conclusions are received.' Joseph H. Price, Review of Biblical Literature
Product details
September 2024Paperback
9781009102018
504 pages
228 × 151 × 30 mm
0.78kg
Available
Table of Contents
- 1. The Religious Landscape of the Near East at the Turn of the Era
- 2. Channels of Transmission
- 3. New Testament Epistemology: A Reappraisal
- 4. Kingship
- 5. Ninurta, Nimrod, Abimelech and Christ: A Case Study of Mediated Influence
- 6. Marduk, Ištar and Nabû and New Testament Christology
- 7. Blood-Lines, Omens and Festivals
- 8. Conclusions on the New Testament's Mesopotamian Legacy.
