ABSTRACT
A book on the prophets and on the rise of Judaism, in the History of Civilization Series, by a professor at the Sorbonne, naturally raises great expectations. On the whole, however, Professor Lods shows not only a thorough familiarity with the literature of his subject, but also a noteworthy caution or sobriety of judgment in avoiding extreme positions. Professor Lods, himself, rightly calls attention to the importance of the work of the great prophet-priest Ezekiel as a molder of Judaism, and Ezekiel was largely a disciple of the spiritual priest-prophet Jeremiah. Professor Lods is at his best in his treatment of the thought and personality of the individual prophets. His appreciation of Ezekiel is both interesting and helps to explain his tremendous influence in shaping the ritual of Judaism. There is a good analysis of the general thesis of the Book of Job that our human vision is inadequate to enable us to pass judgment on the whole world order.
