Leviticus is often considered to be one of the most challenging books of the Bible because of its focus on blood sacrifice, infectious diseases, and complicated dietary restrictions. Moreover, scholarly approaches have focused primarily on divisions in the text without considering its overarching theological message. In this volume, Mark W. Scarlata analyses Leviticus' theology, establishing the connection between God's divine presence and Israel's life. Exploring the symbols and rituals of ancient Israel, he traces how Leviticus develops a theology of holiness in space and time, one that weaves together the homes of the Israelites with the home of God. Seen through this theological lens, Leviticus' text demonstrates how to live in the fullness of God's holy presence and in harmony with one another and the land. Its theological vision also offers insights into how we might live today in a re-sacralized world that cherishes human dignity and cares for creation.
By:
Mark W. Scarlata (St. Mellitus College London)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions:
Height: 216mm,
Width: 140mm,
Spine: 16mm
Weight: 367g
ISBN: 9781108970112
ISBN 10: 1108970117
Series: Old Testament Theology
Pages: 296
Publication Date: 30 September 2025
Audience:
General/trade
,
ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
General editors' preface; Preface; List of abbreviations; 1. The sacred world; 2. Sin, sacrifice, and atonement (Leviticus 1–7, 16); 3. Purity and impurity (Leviticus 11–15); 4. Inhabiting sacred space (Leviticus 8–10, 24–27); 5. Love your neighbor (Leviticus 17–22); 6. Living in sacred time (Leviticus 23); 7. Leviticus in the Old Testament and beyond; Further reading; Scripture index; Subject index.
Mark W. Scarlata is Senior Lecturer in Old Testament at St. Mellitus College, London. He also serves as the vicar-chaplain at St. Edward, King and Martyr, Cambridge, and as the director of the St. Edward's Institute for Christian Thought.
Reviews for The Theology of the Book of Leviticus
'Mark Scarlata's examination of the place of wine in Jewish and Christian scriptures is about so much more than wine. The significance of the land, the meaning of work and ritual, the call to care for creation and communities, the relationship between God and humanity – all these topics and more are on illuminating display in this finely conceived book. Prepare to have your drinking and thinking transformed.' Norman Wirzba, Gilbert T. Rowe Distinguished Professor of Theology, Duke University
