Biblical and Theological Studies Faculty Publications

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Spring 2018

Journal Title

Southeastern Theological Review

ISSN

2156-9401

Volume

9

Issue

1

First Page

3

Last Page

22

Abstract

Ezra-Nehemiah is sometimes interpreted as a positive portrayal of the return of Israel from exile. Ezra 1 begins with a prophetic expectation of return and restoration. However, the conclusion of the book in Nehemiah 13 emphasizes that although the people have rebuilt the temple, restored the walls, and repopulated Jerusalem, they have still failed to keep the demands of the Mosaic covenant. The sober tone of this final chapter prompts a rereading of the narrative as a whole. Rereading the book in light of the conclusion highlights a distinct pattern of tensions throughout the story. A central textual strategy of the author subtly demonstrates the recurrence of pre-exilic conditions in the post-exilic community. Rather than a subsidiary appendix or epilogue, then, Nehemiah 13 represents perhaps the culminating capstone of the composition.

Keywords

Ezra-Nehemiah, mosaic covenant, Nehemiah 13, textual strategy

Comments

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