The Apocalyptic Imagination: An Introduction to Jewish Apocalyptic Literature (The Biblical Resource Series (BRS))

I read this book some years ago (in the 80s or 90s, I think), and it was one of the most important books I have ever read for me personally. Reading the non-canonical apocalyptic literature (which Collins guided me through with The Apocalyptic Imagination and other of his works) that came from the time of the canonical apocalyptic passages (Daniel, Revelation, and others) enabled me to say that the canonical stuff was the same sort of thing as the non-canonical stuff and not something sui generis that should be interpreted in some special, non-historical way, as if it had dropped from heaven and had an origin entirely different from the non-canonical literature. In The Apocalyptic Imagination I felt I had a trustworthy guide through the entire tradition, canonical and non-canonical. I am using The Apocalyptic Imagination as one of two required textbooks for a course I am currently teaching at Northern Kentucky University entitled "Apocalyptic Visions and World Religions."

... standard introduction to modern scholarly takes on the genre of Jewish and Christian apocalyptic literature. I find Collins a bit “safe” in many of his conclusions, but Collins is the undisputed leader in the field.

This is by far one of the most succinct and clear overviews on this subject that I have ever encountered. It provides great information on the significance of 1 Enoch and even dives into textual issues that are debated. Information is current and relevant for anyone that wants to study intertestamental literature and the New Testament.I recommend this book to people that are serious about jumping into texts that rose from Jewish apocalypticism. It literally helped me so much to begin to wade through it all. John J. Collins is one of the best scholars on the book of Daniel and he brings that knowledge to the table constantly throughout the book.

A very balanced presentation of the apocalyptic material. Collins handles the Jewish source materials in their original contexts and assesses them fairly for meaning and theological/eschatological intent. He is not afraid to handle the christian apocalypse of Revelation without either seeking to use it to critique its Jewish sources or using them to critique it. This book is not polemical and a great introduction to the apocalyptic corpus.

Read this in my graduate seminar on Apocalyptic Literature. Fantastic read. Great resource for later work. Accessible without lacking academic rigor. I've returned to this book throughout my studies, especially as I prepare for my comprehensive exams in my doctoral work. Great resource for the money!

John Collins provides an excellent introduction of Jewish apocalyptic literature, vital to better understanding of Christian apocalyptic such as the book of Revelation. An intriguing read for anyone trying to deepen their understanding of New Testament apocalyptic literature.

Combines vast academic knowledge with a writing skills to produce a work that is accessible and interesting, in a very challenging subject.

great

Good book