Experts Recommend OT Commentaries: Lamentations
Dr. May Young Weighs In
Experts Recommend OT Commentaries: Lamentations
Dr. May Young (Guest Expert)
Dr. May Young (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is associate professor of biblical studies and chairs the Department of Biblical Studies, Christian Ministries, Intercultural Studies, and Philosophy at Taylor University. She has contributed to several volumes focused on lament, including Reading the Psalms Theologically (Lexham) and World Christianity and COVID-19: Discourses and Perspective (Routledge). She is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Society of Biblical Literature and serves on the board of directors of the Institute of Biblical Research, as well as the editorial board for Sacred Roots. Young is currently writing the volume on Lamentations for the Pillar Old Testament Commentary.
Young has a brand new book out from IVP Academic, entitled Walking with God Through the Valley: Recovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament.
Technical
For those who enjoy in-depth discussion on grammatical and exegetical issues. This commentary addresses issues ranging from grammar, syntax construction, imagery to contextual usages of terms to elucidate the meaning in each verse and chapter in the book of Lamentations.
Parry’s commentary provides thorough discussion on exegetical issues, detailed grammatical inquiry, compelling structural analysis, along with insightful theological consideration on main themes raised in the book of Lamentations.
Semi-Technical
A great addition for those interested in understanding the poetry in Lamentations. The verse-by-verse analysis and commentary highlights the various ambiguities without trying to resolve the suffering, pain and protests expressed throughout the book.
This is a classic volume that provides a solid foundation for understanding the context, poetry and text of Lamentations. His verse-by-vers e discussions offer great insights into the themes that arise from this poetic work.
Non-Technical
Christopher J.H. Wright (The Message of Lamentations).
This is a great resource for understanding the book of Lamentations and its relevance for our modern church. Wright gives excellent analysis and observations on the poetry and themes raised. His reflection questions at the end of each chapter also offers helpful guidance for further discussion.
Kathleen M. O’Connor, Lamentations and the Tears of the World.
This book provides an accessible study of the poetry and themes found in Lamentations. After a helpful introduction and walking through the structure and themes raised in each chapter, O’Connor provides a helpful reflection the theology of witness to help us consider the relevance of this book for our own context.
Just started reading her book today and really appreciating it.
I really appreciate Dr. Young's recommendations. Laments are very much in order these days.