Prophecy in its ancient Near Eastern context

By Martti Nissinen

Book Description

For those seeking to understand the profound spiritual tradition of prophecy, this scholarly exploration offers a comprehensive journey through ancient civilizations and their prophetic practices. Martti Nissinen presents a sweeping examination that spans over a millennium, from the earliest documented prophetic texts in 18th-century B.C.E. Mari to Arabian sources from the 7th century C.E.

This work illuminates prophecy not as an isolated biblical phenomenon, but as a rich tapestry woven throughout the ancient Near Eastern world. Readers will discover how prophetic voices emerged across diverse cultures, including 7th-century Assyrian traditions and Hebrew biblical texts, revealing universal patterns in humanity's quest to understand divine communication.

The book approaches this sacred subject through multiple lenses, incorporating methodological insights, socioreligious analysis, and anthropological perspectives alongside historical examination. This multifaceted approach allows readers to grasp both the cultural specificity and universal elements of prophetic experience across ancient societies.

Whether you are a student of comparative religion, someone exploring the roots of spiritual tradition, or simply curious about how ancient peoples understood divine revelation, this volume provides valuable insights into one of humanity's most enduring spiritual practices. The extensive temporal and geographical scope offers readers a unique opportunity to trace the evolution of prophetic consciousness across civilizations and centuries.