The problem of Psalm 68:19 (Masoretic Text) in Ephesians 4:8 has a rich history of interpretation; particular focus has been placed on Jewish and Pauline interpretations of the psalm, and the Jewish exegetical tradition that reads Moses as the one who ascends Mount Sinai to receive and give the law. Todd Scacewater suggests a second tradition, henceforth unnoticed, that interprets Psalm 68 eschatologically. While both traditions are significant, Scacewater maintains that the eschatological tradition provides a better matrix through which to understand Paul's use of the psalm. Scacewater argues that another key for understanding Pauline use of the psalm is the divine builder topos, which is pervasive in the ancient Near East, utilized in Psalm 68, and evident in Paul's understanding of the psalm as he applies it to Christ, the eschatological divine builder. Discussing the context of Ephesians, the building of the Temple and the trope of the divine builder, and Psalm 68's position in early/late Judaism and Ephesians, Scacewater contributes to a new methodology for studying how the New Testament authors interpreted and appropriated Hebrew Scriptures.

This volume studies Psalm 68 in its ancient Near Eastern milieu, alongside Jewish and Pauline interpretations of the psalm, and considers the hermeneutical implications of these findings.

About the Author
Todd A. Scacewater is Assistant Professor at Dallas International University, USA.

Reviews
An essential access to the major movements in the history interpreting of Ps 68 and Eph 4:8. Scacewater defends a narrative structure for Ps 68 and a contextual use of it in Eph 4:8 ... Scacewater's book on Ps 68 is a must read for anyone who wants to investigate the meaning of Ps 68 for its original and/or modern applications. * Review of Biblical Literature *
Scacewater's book is a welcome contribution to the study of how the New Testament uses the Old. His work is intriguing, integrative, and highly academic. His discussion of the use of Psalm 68 within Ephesians 4 is informed by an abundance of information, context, background, and interpretation. He has set a substantial foundation for further consideration of this matter, and his conclusion sets the stage for further study. * Reading Religion *



Book Information
ISBN 9780567694225
Author Todd A. Scacewater
Format Hardback
Page Count 200
Imprint T.& T.Clark Ltd
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 466g