"God of Israel" in history and tradition, The

By Michael J. (Ph. D.) Stahl

Book Description

Dr. Michael J. Stahl presents a scholarly exploration into one of the Hebrew Bible's most significant divine titles, examining how the phrase "God of Israel" functioned far beyond simple religious identification. Through careful literary analysis and historical investigation, this comprehensive study reveals how this sacred epithet served as a powerful tool that both reflected and influenced the social and political landscapes of ancient Israel and Judah.

Drawing upon critical theories of social power and identity, Stahl demonstrates how religious language operates within complex networks of authority, community formation, and political agenda-setting. Rather than viewing the title "God of Israel" as a static religious formula, this work illuminates its dynamic evolution across different historical periods and contexts.

The book offers readers a deeper understanding of how sacred texts and religious expressions emerge from and respond to their surrounding social structures. Stahl's analysis extends beyond traditional biblical scholarship to address broader questions about the intricate relationships between faith, power, and community identity.

For those interested in the intersection of spirituality and social dynamics, this study provides valuable insights into how religious language both shapes and is shaped by the communities that employ it. The work serves as both a detailed examination of ancient Hebrew religious expression and a thoughtful case study in the ongoing dialogue between sacred tradition and social reality.