Lexington Books The Sanctuary in the Psalms: Exploring the Paradox of God’s Transcendence and Immanence

Product Description This book is an exploration and interpretation of the diverse symbols and images that represent the sacred presence of God in the Book of Psalms. These images of sacred spaces and objects represent diverse conceptions of "the sanctuary" or sacred spaces, objects and texts that mediate God's presence and bridge the gap between the ineffable nature of God as transcendent and beyond human comprehension and as immanently and intimately present in human experience. I explore the multivalent ways in which images of sacred spaces and objects facilitate prayer and contemplation. This book represents a valuable contribution to the study of Psalms and biblical theology, spirituality and prayer. Review In a very helpful interpretive move, Steven Dunn broadens the definition of "sanctuary" beyond the Temple to include references to multiple "'places' where God is encountered." For Dunn, "places" include the Temple, but also other spaces, objects, creational phenomena, and more. As he persuasively demonstrates, this approach makes the Book of Psalms something like a "literary sanctuary" that invites and facilitates ongoing experiences of God's presence and power by readers in every generation. It is encouraging to see such careful interpretive work put in to the service of contemporary spirituality and discipleship.--J. Clinton McCann, Jr., Eden Theological Seminary [Dunn] has provided a useful resource for further study of metaphoric approaches to the Psalms.--Journal for the Study of the Old Testament Dunn takes up an important subject in the Psalter and astutely discusses its many variations and nuances.--Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology Accessibly written and scholarly informed, Steven Dunn's study captures the heart and soul of the Psalter: God's "sanctuary" presence, a paradoxical presence that is both concealed and conveyed in the Psalms. Remarkably wide-ranging, Dunn's treatment reveals in new ways the Psalms' relevance for contemporary practice.--William P. Brown, Columbia Theological Seminary About the Author Steven Dunn is assistant professor of religious studies and biblical studies at Alverno College.