Excavating Q: The History and Setting of the Sayings Gospel

by John S. Kloppenborg

Publisher:

Fortress Press

, 2000

Overview

In this tour de force, the author offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of Q, the collection of Jesus’ sayings long hypothesized as the source for the canonical gospels of Matthew and Luke. Part one deals with the methods for studying Q, their presuppositions, and a survey of current research. Part two addresses more theological and theoretical issues relevant to the Synoptic Problem, Q as a document, its redaction, and its social setting.

Key Features

• Examines the text and history of Q
• Discusses the theology and idealogy behind Q
• Establishes a setting for the sayings in Q

Contents

• Q and the Synoptic Problem
• The Character and Reconstruction of Q
• The Composition and Genre of the Sayings Gospel Q
• The Q Document and the Q People
• Reading Q in the Galilee
• The Jesus of History and the History of the Dogma: Theological Currents in the Synoptic Problem
• Putting Q on the Map
• Making Difference
• Social Characterizations in Theological Perspective

Praise for the Print Edition

Whilst it is designed in part to introduce readers to the subject, this book is in fact much more than this. It is a fascinating analysis of and reflection upon the current state of the debates about Q, and it pilots the way ahead for future debate. The social location of the Q people within Galilee, their distinctive theology and relation to Cynics, and the way in which Q raises questions about the historical Jesus will challenge scholars of all levels. It is essential reading for all interested in Christian origins.

—Ronald A. Piper, professor of Christian origins, University of St. Andrews

Excavating Q is a major synthesis, providing a meaningful integration of literary, archaeological, social, and theological concerns. By drawing together threads in the current discussion about the historical Jesus, first-century Galilee, and Q, Kloppenborg Verbin steps into the forefront of the discussion. This work makes lasting contributions to our understanding of the synoptic tradition and the social history of Jewish and Christian origins.

—Douglas E. Oakman, professor of New Testament, Pacific Lutheran University

Having launched the current resurgence of interest in Q with the publication of The Formation of Q, Kloppenborg Verbin rode the crest of the Q movement as leader of the International Q Project; and now with his masterpiece, Excavating Q, he brings in the harvest of Q studies. This is without a doubt the most thorough, wide-reaching, and convincing analysis of Q, tracing the course of Q since its discovery in 1838 down through its central position in the new dimensions of theology for the coming millennium. From now on, Excavating Q is required reading for anyone wanting to discuss Q.

—James M. Robinson, emeritus professor of religion, Claremont Graduate University

Product Details

• Title: Excavating Q: The History and Setting of the Sayings Gospel
• Author: John S. Kloppenborg Verbin
• Publisher: Augsburg Fortress
• Publication Date: 2000
• Pages: 416
• Resource Type: Monographs
• Topic: Biblical Studies

About John S. Kloppenborg

John S. Kloppenborg Verbin is chair of the Department and Centre for the Study of Religion at the University of Toronto. Some of his publications include Hermeneia: The Critical Edition of Q, The Formation of Q, Q Parallels: Synopsis, Critical Notes, and Concordance, and Conflict and Invention: Literary, Rhetorical, and Social Studies on the Sayings Gospel Q.