Introduction to The Major Prophets

Critical scholars approach the major prophetic books of the Old Testament by situating them within their historical contexts, rather than interpreting them through the lens of Christian messianic prophecies. In our objective summaries, we focus on the narrative content of these texts, steering clear of anachronistic perspectives and emphasizing their original historical and cultural settings.

Summaries for the Major Prophets - Larger prophetic works in the Old Testament
Book Traditional Authorship Common Scholarly View Date Written Key Verse
Isaiah Isaiah Multiple authors (perhaps Isaiah as well) 8th to 6th Century B.C.E. Isa 53:5 "He was pierced for our transgressions..."
Jeremiah Jeremiah Multiple authors (perhaps some material goes back to Jeremiah) 7th to 6th Century B.C.E. Jer 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you..."
Lamentations Jeremiah Multiple (unknown) authors 6th Century B.C.E. Lam 3:22-23 "The Lord’s mercies are new every morning."
Ezekiel Ezekiel Ezekiel c. 593-571 B.C.E. Ezek 36:26 "A new heart I will give you."
Daniel Daniel Unknown author 2nd Century B.C.E. Dan 2:20 "Blessed be the name of God forever and ever."

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