In this valuable and clearly written new work, Christopher Wright has updated and integrated two of his earlier works on the ethical value of the OT, Living as the People of God and Walking in the Ways of the Lord. However, this integration is considerably more than just the sum of its parts as it enables Wright to address criticisms of his method and to demonstrate the value of his paradigmatic approach by showing how it relates to specific ethical issues. The various triangles that he used to describe the ethical relationships within the OT are still there in Part 1, but with a number of important clarifications. The relationship of the triangles to the specific ethical issues that he addresses is now more clearly articulated in Part 2, whilst the rationale for the approach is clarified through interaction with Wright’s critics, especially C. S. Rodd. Wright also provides a summary of how the study of OT ethics has developed before providing an overview of his own hermeneutical concerns in Part 3. This part will be particularly helpful to those wishing to pursue the issues raised. The book closes with a brief appendix on the question of the Canaanites, with the hint of another book on a moral defence of the OT. A comprehensive bibliography (unfortunately almost entirely limited to works in English), and indexes conclude the book. In all, this is a thoroughly worthwhile update.

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