The ocean dominates the surface of the earth and is in the pages of the Bible too. The Bible offers a view of the sea and the life it supports which affirms its intrinsic value to God as a good, and indeed essential, part of creation. At the same time, it also speaks perceptively of the sea's vulnerability to damage and change. The Bible's focus on the sea raises questions about economics and the interconnectedness of communities, whilst further references to the sea raise questions about our human-centredness and spirituality, and about our fear of chaos and disaster. In a unique collaborative project, the oceanographer Meric Srokosz and the biblical scholar Rebecca Watson not only offer environmental insights on the sea, but also connect the ocean with other key issues of broader concern-spirituality, economics, chaos, and our place in the world. Each chapter concludes with ideas for discussion and reflection, and for suggested actions in the light of the issues raised. The book will present a fresh new lens through which to view the Bible and as such inform biblical scholars, students, and preachers alike. Table of Contents: 1. The Sea and Salvation 2. The Sea and Spirituality 3. The God of the Sea and All that Fills It 4. Human Creatures and the Life of the Sea 5. The Sacred Sea 6. Coping with Chaos and Uncertainty 7. The Vast, Vulnerable Sea: A Spacious Sea? 8. Economics, Hubris and Human Community: Travel and Trade on the Sea 9. Blue Planet, Blue God

About the Author
Meric Srokosz is Professor of Physical Oceanography at the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), Southampton working on biological-physical interactions in the upper ocean, remote sensing of the oceans, and waves. He is a former Associate Director of the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion (2012-2015). He initiated the "Sea in Scripture" project while at the Faraday Institute. Rebecca Watson is Research Associate at the Faraday Institute in Cambridge and Dean of Studies at St Hild College, Yorkshire. She is a member of Council of the Archbishop's Examination in Theology, and of the Committee of the Society for Old Testament Study.

Reviews
"This is one of the most unusual and enjoyable books that I've read in a long time. Exploring the theme of the sea throughout the Bible, it carefully but thoughtfully raises questions about God, about us and about the planet in which we live. It is well written and easy to read and reflects in a fascinating way on a theme in the Bible that few have examined - highly recommended!" -- Paula Gooder
"Who says religion and science don't mix? Rebecca and Meric show that they absolutely do. This is an intriguing and stimulating book on a subject that often gets overlooked - when we talk about caring for the earth, we often forget that 71% of that is actually sea. But our seas are in trouble, as are the millions of people around the world who rely on them. I really recommend this book as a great way not only to understand more about our amazing blue planet, both theologically and scientifically, but also to be inspired to live in ways that look after it." -- Ruth Valerio
Definitely of value to preachers, this book not only gives a unique picture of the sea through both Old and New Testaments, and a useful lens through which to read texts theologically, it offers the possibility of an excellent sermon series for those who make use of these. -- Liz Shercliff * The Preacher, April 2018, Issue 169 *



Book Information
ISBN 9780334056331
Author Meric Srokosz
Format Paperback
Page Count 208
Imprint SCM Press
Publisher SCM Press