Both Lamentations and Ezekiel focus on the destruction of Jerusalem, an act of divine punishment for the city’s faithlessness over many years. Lamentations is caught up in the catastrophe that befalls the city, and combines grief, sorrow and pleas for mercy in its few short chapters. Ezekiel reflects on the same events from the standpoint of those living in exile in the city of Babylon, but turns his attention to the future, offering a series of positive visions that speak of God’s plans for ultimate redemption. His prophecies are significant for the hope they offer in the wake of Jerusalem’s destruction, and for the way their vivid imagery was later taken up and used by John of Patmos in the Book of Revelation.

Using personal anecdote, a witty and lively style, and drawing on his considerable theological knowledge, John Goldingay takes us deep into the unfolding story of the Old Testament.