A Study of Hebrew Thought is a 1960 book on philosophy by Claude Tresmontant, translated into English by Michael Francis Gibson. Here, Tresmontant explores the ancient Hebrew metaphysics in the Bible and what it means for Christianity, drawing particular contrast with the dualism of Neo-Platonism.
Tresmontant correctly observes that Neo-Platonism has affected
the way many unwitting Western Christians have interpreted the Bible throughout
history. This is mostly clearly shown in the widely accepted concept of the Neo-Platonic
dichotomy of body and soul, which is frequently applied to Bible. However, this
stands in sharp contrast to the Hebrew mindset, which makes no distinction
whatsoever between body and soul, and which views creation and existence as
life-based and individual-oriented.
Tresmontant also contrasts Greek and Hebrew thought as it
pertains to creation and the self. As such, Tresmontant bases his arguments
heavily on Bergson, and is most critical of Plotinus and Spinoza.
A Study of Hebrew Thought is not the most accessible
work. It requires a fundamental understanding of Platonic philosophy, and
contains many quotations in their original language, whether German, French, or
Latin. The punctuation is all out of whack by today’s standards, which disrupts
the flow of reading.
A Study of Hebrew Thought can be challenging to work
through, but it is a worthwhile, stimulating, and well-reasoned exploration of the
philosophy of the biblical writers and outline of a biblical metaphysics. It is
recommended reading for anyone seriously interested in the original intent of
the biblical authors.
RECOMMENDED
