The Fate of Saul's Progeny in the Reign of David

Description: This book as a comprehensive analysis of the fate of Sauls heirs shows that David like other ancient Near Eastern usurpers perpetrated heinous injustices against the vanquished house of Saul. It evaluates the relationships between David and Sauls heirs using the criterion of justice which is a cardinal directive principle for living in YHWHs covenant community as is enunciated in the Deuteronomic Code. Tushima focuses on the story of David and its interconnections with the fate of the Saulides to determine the factors that lay behind the latters tragedies inquiring into whether these tragedies were due to continuing divine retribution pure happenstance or Davidic orchestration. In his close reading of these texts Tushima argues that David was for the most part unjust and calculating in his dealings with the Saulides. Thematic and motific threads arising from this narrative critical study (such as the impact of human conduct on the environment the tension between election and the character of Gods servants the dynamics of sacred space and sacred typonyms the Judahite [Davidic] kingship the monarchy marriage and Zion theology) are considered within their contexts in Israels traditions for their biblical-theological and redemptive-historical import. Endorsements: Dr. Tushima presents a bold comprehensive and penetrating study of the other side of King David who is usually depicted as hero by biblical writers and scholars. The author argues that David orchestrated with ruthless details in undermining and effecting the eventual demise of Sauls dynasty. In my opinion this book is a must reading for all Bible teachers and students. -Samuel Waje Kunhiyop South African Theological Seminary Tushimas book is a most welcome research contribution. Within the field of Samuel studies it fills a thematic and methodological gap and from the perspective of Old Testament studies in Africa it is an excellent demonstration of the growing interest for narrative and literary approaches amongst the younger generation of scholars. -Knut Holter MHS School of Mission and Theology Stavanger Norway Tushima has identified and correctly evaluated an important issue in the life of David. Namely Yahwehs role as an impartial just judge is anchored in His ability to weigh the deeds of man a clear innuendo to His ability to look beyond outward appearances but penetrate to the realms of the heart and motives. This will be an excellent resource for those researchers who follow this path to understanding the significance of David in the Bible. -Ken Davis Villanova University This new book will certainly re-direct the course of biblical scholarship especially in Africa where this new approach will resonate with African emphasis upon the traditional value of storytelling. In the course of time The Fate of Sauls Progeny in the Reign of David will certainly mark out Cephas Tushima as an outstanding biblical scholar for the future. -Yusufu Turaki Professor of Theology and Social Ethics Jos ECWA Theological Seminary Jos Nigeria About the Contributor(s): Dr. Cephas T. A. Tushima is acting Director of the PhD program at Jos ECWA Theological Seminary Nigeria. He is also an adjunct professor at Eastern University Pennsylvania.