Since reading John Hercus’s stimulating case studies of biblical characters as an undergraduate, Chris Wright vowed never to handle the Bible boringly. This is a daunting challenge, but here as elsewhere he has ably risen to it. Many readers (even some scholars!) find Ezekiel bizarre and obscure, and make little attempt to understand him or see any modern relevance to his book. As a careful scholar and committed teacher, Wright tackles both aspects with perception and passion.

Most chapters are treated thoroughly, though a few receive briefer comment. A 26-page introduction amply covers Ezekiel’s times, mission and book, and a later 17-page section deals with ‘God and the nations’. Memorable headings epitomise a good writing style, e.g. ‘History with attitude’, ‘Cinderella and the two ugly sisters (in reverse)’, ‘The gospel according to Ezekiel’. There are helpful comments on the nature of prophecy regarding the unfulfilled oracle against Tyre (248–50 re 26:7ff.; though that against Egypt is ignored, 29:18–21). And the final paragraph illustrates sensitive application, juxtaposing the city’s new name with Matt. 18:20. Altogether a great introduction to Ezekiel, and a fine addition to the BST series.

---