The Bible Now

Without taking and arguing a particular side, this is a lucid discussion, informed by strong scholarship, of the biblical texts at issue for the issues. Some readers may wish for 'the answers'; the rest of us will be relieved at their absence. --Publishers Weekly A refreshingly honest look at what the ancient Bible teaches us about contemporary controversies, as explained by biblical scholars who can write for lay readers. You will be surprised at their novel interpretations of texts that have been misused to justify both right and left wing positions on homosexuality, abortion and capital punishment. - Alan Dershowitz, Genesis of Justice and The Trials of Zion Friedman and Dolansky offer fascinating observations and, with lucidity, passion, and humor, they help all readers across the religious spectrum to ask the right questions. -- Amy-Jill Levine, University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies, Vanderbilt University This is a timely book. Friedman and Dolansky look at several hot-button issues and give a dispassionate, scholarly presentation of the biblical evidence. That evidence is seldom if ever clear cut, and does not provide the kind of absolute authority that ideologues often claim. This is an excellent study in the problems of applying the Bible to modern issues. -- John J. Collins, Holmes Professor of Old Testament, Yale University Friedman and Dolansky are accomplished and respected scholars who bring their knowledge to bear on all of the contemporary issues under discussion in The Bible Now . . . [C]apable of addressing a lay readership with perfect clarity and explaining even the most abstruse concepts in plain English. That is what makes The Bible Now not only an important book but a useable one. --Jewish Journal [Friedman and Dolansky] skillfully employ an impressive array of scholarly tools and insights, including literary criticism, archaeology, anthropology, and ancient languages . . . A fine example of careful scholarship, even if one may disagree with some of the authors' specific conclusions. --Library Journal The Bible Now is an honorable book. --Tablet ...should be required reading for all who use the good book to further their causes. --olumbus Post Dispatch This is a thoughtful, well-researched, and well-written analysis of modern issues and how the ancient texts can give us wisdom and guidance in making decisions. -- ewish Book World ...well worth a read.... --CHOICE In fascinating passages that shed new light on some of today's most passionate disputes, the authors reveal how the Bible is frequently misunderstood, misquoted, mistranslated, and misused...The Bible Now shows us how we can--and cannot--use this ancient source of wisdom to address our most current and pressing issues. --Jewish Media Review [The book's] thoroughness and new interpretations make it a valuable resource for teachers, pastors, and laity wishing to have a more solid understanding about this ancient text's back-story and how it can, or cannot, be applied to today's moral debates. --Interpretation