We are at a critical moment in our nation's history. Never have the differences between our major political parties been greater; never have the stakes been higher. To whom or to what do we turn for guidance? Let's be honest. The Bible, which for many of us has been the source of comfort, inspiration and wisdom, has as many facets as a diamond carved by an expert jeweler. The answers are there, but come in so many disguises, from so many different perspectives, that only a master can lead us through the labyrinth that lies in its pages. Such a master is Kenneth Hanson, professor of Judaic Studies at the University of Central Florida, and such a book is The Eagle and the Bible. Here is a refreshing look at the parallels between holy writ and American history - uncovering the degree to which both are rooted in an eternal battle for lean and limited government, in opposition to top-heavy centralized authority. The thesis, the theme, and the underlying truth is that the struggle for liberty, justice and freedom present from the nation's founding is paralleled in the struggles for liberty, justice and freedom experienced by the heroes of the Bible. Hanson reveals an anti-establishment, anti-big government current in the biblical stories (challenging the "authoritarian" rule of David, Solomon and others) that is today more relevant than ever. The Eagle and the Bible comes to us at a time of great need for insight. It fulfills that need and gives us the courage to meet the challenges of this extraordinary time.
