At the scent of water : the ground of hope in the book of Job

by J. Gerald Janzen

2009

Publication

William B. Eerdmans, c2009.

Collection

Theology

Library's rating

Status

Available

Description

In this remarkable rereading of the biblical book of Job -- often discussed as an attempt to "justify the ways of God to man” -- J. Gerald Janzen brings new light to Job’s story, showing how God invites Job to give up the traditional logic of reward-punishment for a life-affirming strategy of risk-reward. From this perspective, affirmation of life in the face of all its vulnerabilities is the path to true participation in the mystery of existence. / At the Scent of Water traces Job’s journey from prosperity, through calamity and bitter anguish, to an encounter with God’s presence in a rainstorm that renews the earth and his own appetite for life. / Janzen includes a candid epilogue on his own struggle with aggressive prostate cancer, which enabled him to connect personally with Job and to find a fresh and illuminating grace. At the Scent of Water will especially resonate with any readers who have experienced grief or suffering.… (more)

Media reviews

Word & World

As stated above, the book of Job is not directly addressed until a third of the way into the book, and even then Janzen returns several times to the world of psychology to refine his argument about the framework from which he reads Job. The chapters, while ordered in a helpful manner, may not flow

in the direction one expects. The book is well worth reading for all interested in the book of Job and for those wondering how the book of Job might be a resource in pastoral care relationships or in one's own life.

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Catholic Biblical Quarterly

This little work strikes a sensitive tone--the universal problem of the meaning of humanity, of God, and of life. J. captures the essence of this issue in his study of the message of the Book of Job. The reader will benefit greatly from this work.

Religious Studies Review

This book proves that a good thing really can come in a small package.

Conrad Grebel Review

In this relatively slim volume Janzen covers much ground, and at times one might wonder if he is traveling too many directions. However, the patient reader will be rewarded by the forays into seemingly disparate disciplines, because with each one Janzen manages to masterfully guide us along a side

trail to a unique overlook on the expanse of the Joban narrative. Thus, this book will likely appeal to a wide range of readers, and it would lend itself as much to a seminary classroom as to an adult book study in a congregational setting.

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Review & Expositor

The structure of Janzen's book is a bit jumbled and a few typos remain, but his lifetime of study in the Book of Job--and his personal experience with the dark suffering that accompanies cancer treatments--brings life to the title, summoning the scent of water for thirsty readers.