Theology

According to Margaret Barker, temple mysticism underpins much of the Bible. Rooted in the cult of the first temple in ancient Judaism, it helps us to understand the origins of Christianity. Barker first examines biblical texts: Isaiah, the prophet whom Jesus quoted more than any other in Scripture, and John, and then non-biblical texts.

For a long time, scholarship has been seeking the origins of Christian worship in the synagogue. This book traces the roots of Christian worship back to the Jewish temple. It covers baptism, in theology and practice, the Eucharist, with emphasis on the symbolism of the elements, the significance of music and hymns, and festivals and pilgrimage.

In this text, Margaret Barker puts recent archaeological discoveries in context by explaining the theological background. It sheds light on Old Testament theology, Christian and Jewish liturgy and Jesus' own relationship to the Temple.

A stunning reexamination of one of the essential tenets of Christian belief from one of the most provocative and admired writers on religion today

This timely exploration of the meaning of generous orthodoxy encourages us to embrace different expressions of Christian faith to deepen a sense of unity in the Church.