descent of Christ, The
Ephesians 4:7-11 and traditional Hebrew imagery
W. Hall Harris
221 pages | ~6 hrs
descent of Christ, The
Ephesians 4:7-11 and traditional Hebrew imagery
By W. Hall Harris
In this scholarly exploration, W. Hall Harris delves into one of the New Testament's most enigmatic passages, offering fresh perspective on Christ's descent as described in Ephesians 4:9-10. Rather than following traditional interpretations, Harris presents compelling evidence that this descent refers specifically to the Spirit's arrival at Pentecost, occurring after Christ's ascension mentioned earlier in the same chapter.
The work draws extensively from early Jewish and Christian sources, weaving together imagery and symbolism that illuminates this complex biblical text. Harris examines how ancient interpreters understood Psalm 68:19 in relation to Moses, exploring connections found in Targum Psalms and rabbinic literature. This investigation reveals patterns of thought that shaped early Christian understanding of divine movement between heaven and earth.
Particularly valuable is Harris's methodology for dating elements within later rabbinic traditions, providing readers with tools for understanding how ancient texts evolved over time. The author demonstrates how the writer of Ephesians made a theological breakthrough by connecting the ascended Christ with the Spirit who descended at Pentecost, creating a unified vision of divine presence and power.
For those seeking deeper understanding of biblical interpretation and early Christian thought, this volume offers rigorous scholarship combined with accessible insights. Harris bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary understanding, helping readers appreciate the sophisticated theological thinking that shaped foundational Christian beliefs about Christ's continuing presence in the world.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Critique, interprétation
- ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- ✓ Explore Pentecôte
- ✓ Explore Bible, criticism, interpretation, etc., n. t. epistles
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Moïse (Chef biblique) dans le Nouveau Testament
- ✓ Explore Descent into hell
- ✓ Explore Psalmen 68,19
Topics
Details
- Published
- 1996
- Publisher
- E.J. Brill
- ISBN-13
- 9789004103108
- ISBN-10
- 9004103104
- Pages
- 221
- Language
- EN
