William Robertson Smith was een Schotse oriëntalist en Oudtestamenticus wiens werk de opvatting van religie diepgaand veranderde. Zijn geschriften benaderden religieuze onderwerpen zonder de letterlijke waarheid van de Bijbel te onderschrijven, wat tot aanzienlijke controverse leidde. Smith's methodologie was gebaseerd op de vergelijkende godsdienstwetenschap, en zijn verhandelingen, vaak bedoeld voor een lekenpubliek, werden fundamentele teksten op dit gebied.
The book is a reprint of a classic work first published in 1881, preserving the original text and context. It offers readers a glimpse into the historical and cultural landscape of its time, showcasing themes and narratives that have stood the test of time. This edition aims to provide both new and returning readers with an authentic experience of the author's voice and vision.
William Robertson Smith (1846-1894) is generally considered to be among the most important pioneers of Biblical Criticism, Social Anthropology and Comparative Religious Studies. This volume contains ca. 400 letters to his family, friends, and colleagues, spanning the period from his early student days in 1863 to his final illness in 1894 and covering a wide range of topics. Among the recipients of the letters are his parents, his siblings, his close friends and confidants John Sutherland Black and Thomas Martin Lindsay, his teacher in Arabic, Paul de Lagarde, and such notable men of learning as the Old Testament scholars Julius Wellhausen and Abraham Kuenen, the Arabists Jan de Goeje and Theodor Nöldeke, the politician James Bryce, the social anthropologist James George Frazer, the artist George Reid, the physicist Peter Guthrie Tait, and the mathematicians Felix Klein and Max Noether.
considered with special reference to Professor Smith's view
Focusing on the authorship and dating of the Books of Moses, this work critically examines Professor Smith's perspective. It provides a detailed analysis of the historical and scholarly debates surrounding these foundational texts. The book, a faithful reprint of the 1878 edition, offers insights into the complexities of biblical authorship and the implications of Smith's views, making it a significant resource for scholars and enthusiasts of biblical studies.
The book offers a scholarly examination of Semitic religions, presenting insights from the original 1894 lectures. It explores the beliefs, practices, and cultural contexts of Semitic peoples, providing a historical perspective that remains relevant for understanding their religious traditions. This reprint maintains the integrity of the original text, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars interested in the evolution of Semitic religious thought.
Originally published in 1882, this reprint offers readers a chance to explore the themes and narratives that shaped its time. The book captures the essence of its era, providing insights into the historical context and societal norms of the period. Readers can expect to encounter rich language and storytelling that reflect the author's unique perspective, making it a valuable addition for those interested in classic literature and its enduring impact.
Twelve lectures on Biblical criticism
Focusing on Biblical criticism, this work comprises twelve lectures that explore the Old Testament's role within the Jewish Church. It delves into historical interpretations and critical analysis of the scriptures, offering insights into the religious and cultural context of the time. The book serves as a scholarly examination of the text, reflecting on its significance in Jewish tradition. This reprint preserves the original content from 1881, making it accessible for contemporary readers interested in theological studies.