Mary's Voice in the Gospel According to John
A New Translation with Commentary
By: Michael Pakaluk
About This Book
A New Light on John’s Gospel The Gospel according to John has always been recognized as different from the “synoptic” accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. But what explains the difference? In this new translation and verse-byverse commentary, Michael Pakaluk suggests an answer and unlocks a twothousand-year-old mystery. Mary’s Voice in the Gospel according to John reveals the subtle but powerful influence of the Mother of Jesus on the fourth Gospel. In his dying words, Jesus committed his Mother to the care of John, the beloved disciple, who “from that hour . . . took her into his own home.” Pakaluk draws out the implications of that detail, which have been overlooked for centuries. In Mary’s remaining years on earth, what would she and John have talked about? Surely no subject was as close to their hearts as the words and deeds of Jesus. Mary’s unique perspective and intimate knowledge of her Son must have shaped the account of Jesus’ life that John would eventually compose. With the same scholarship, imagination, and fidelity that he applied to Mark’s Gospel in The Memoirs of St. Peter, Pakaluk brings out the voice of Mary in John’s, from the famous prologue about the Incarnation of the Word to the Evangelist’s closing avowal of the reliability of his account. This remarkably fresh translation and commentary will deepen your understanding of the most sublime book of the New Testament.
AI Overview
"Mary's Voice in the Gospel According to John" by Michael Pakaluk is a new translation and verse-by-verse commentary that offers a fresh perspective on the Gospel of John. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
The Gospel of John's Distinction: The book explores why the Gospel of John is distinct from the other synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). Pakaluk suggests that the influence of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is a significant factor in this distinction.
Mary's Influence: The author reveals the subtle but powerful influence of Mary on the fourth Gospel. He draws out the implications of Jesus committing his mother to the care of John, the beloved disciple, which has been overlooked for centuries.
Verse-by-Verse Commentary: The book provides a detailed, verse-by-verse commentary that deepens the reader's understanding of the Gospel of John. This approach allows readers to see the rich, multilayered narrative of the Gospel.
Plot Summary
The book delves into the unique aspects of the Gospel of John, focusing on how Mary's presence and influence shape the narrative. It begins with the famous prologue about the Incarnation of the Word and continues through to the Evangelist’s closing avowal of the reliability of his account. Pakaluk’s commentary highlights how Mary’s voice is embedded throughout the Gospel, influencing its themes and messages.
Critical Reception
Positive Reviews: The book has received positive reviews for its fresh translation and insightful commentary. Professor Janet Smith, in her review, praises the book for providing a rich, multilayered filter through which readers can understand the Gospel of John.
Academic Reception: Michael Pakaluk, a professor of ethics and social philosophy, brings his academic expertise to the book. His background in ethics and social philosophy adds depth to the theological analysis, making the book appealing to both scholars and lay readers.
Public Reception: The book has been well-received by the public, with many appreciating the new translation and the way it unlocks a two-thousand-year-old mystery. The price point of $5.95 (originally $28.99) has also made it accessible to a wider audience.
Format and Availability
- Format: The book is available in hardbound format with 329 pages.
- Publisher: It is published by Gateway.
- ISBN: The ISBN is 9781684511198.
- Price: Currently available at $5.95 (originally $28.99).
Overall, "Mary's Voice in the Gospel According to John" by Michael Pakaluk offers a unique and insightful perspective on the Gospel of John, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and those seeking a deeper understanding of the New Testament.