376 - A Time for War: A Study of Warfare in the Old Testament

A Time for War: A Study of Warfare in the Old Testament

By T.R. Hobbs

Wilmington, Michael Glazier, 1989. 248 Pp. $15.95.

This third volume of the Old Testament Studies series is intended "to introduce the reader to the historical and cultural context of warfare in the Old Testament." Hobbs examines the history of combat in the Hebrew Bible, noting that the battles fought during the period of the Judges were defensive in nature; while warfare in the monarchy "became a toot of aggression against the political neighbors of Israel and Judah." A major part of Hobbs' study, however, is designed to show exactly what war would have entailed for the Israelite soldier, that is, the "face of battle." The author's strength lies in his considerable knowledge and use of a wide range of sources, both ancient and modern, in discussing subjects such as the organization of an ancient army, leadership, strategy and tactics, and the rigors of warfare. While Hobbs includes some theological reflections on war, his vantage point is primarily militaryhistorical. Such an approach is welcome, and Hobbs' volume is largely devoid of the apologetics and/or polemics one often encounters in other treatments of this controversial topic.

Scott Morschauser, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, N.J.