Social-science commentary on the book of Revelation

Synopsis

"Rather than covering the same ground as other commentaries, the authors address issues of altered states of consciousness, the ancient economy, honor and shame, social deviance, group formation processes, and purity codes. Their use of comparative material from the Old Testament, Pseudepigrapha, and Greco-Roman writings will open a window for the reader on ancient Mediterranean perceptions of activities in the sky in relation to those on earth. This interpretation enriches our reading of the Bible's most provocative book by clarifying how John's astral visions deepened hope in the midst of the early churches' struggles."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved