The Use of Daniel in Jewish Apocalyptic Literature and in the Revelation of St. John

G. K. Beale’s study of Danielic usage in apocalyptic literature represents a thorough examination of the material with a unique emphasis on structural as well as thematic elements (314). Utilizing consistent structure and clearly delineated methodologies, Beale provides an excellent evaluation of the studied passages. Although eager to defend his observation of Danielic emphasis over other influential texts (273), Beale nevertheless does not fail to comment on the relative merit of a given allusion or connection. This not only adds credibility to his argument but more clearly articulates the nuances of the thesis and delineates the avenues for further study. This volume is particularly useful in Logos because of the sheer quantity of biblical references present throughout. It also serves fairly well as a reference because of its clear structure and plentiful references to other sections within the work. Unfortunately there is an abnormally high quantity of typos and errors which will hopefully continue to be patched out. Unfortunately, due to the constraints of the project and its place in the development of Beale’s thought (it was originally published in 1984), a fuller discussion of Revelation is lacking, though it was formative to his later, more developed studies of Revelation. The comparison with gospel apocalyptic material and ensuing discussion of possible dependence was brief and over-dependent on other studies, and a discussion of the development and use of relevant sources (e.g. John’s use of LXX and Θ, though note brief comments on pp. 311–312) would have benefited the study. I would recommend The Use of Daniel in Jewish Apocalyptic Literature and in the Revelation of St. John to anyone studying the apocalyptic genre or Revelation intertextuality, though for more general treatments of Revelation or Jewish apocalyptic literature the relevant modern commentaries and theologies will engage this study to sufficient effect.

In a life long searching to understand and seek the twice promised blessings of John's Revelation, I was lead to discover G. K. Beale and his masterful NIGTC commentary. Since then, I practically bought everything he wrote. William Hendriksen's "More than Conquerors" had previously helped me to (finally) discover a hermeneutics that made sense to me, explaining that Jesus precious bride, the Church, is encouraged to persevere and not compromise and his protected in these last days until its final victory when He comes again in Judgement. I am eager to read this new book which will no doubt, thanks to God. be another master piece.