The Power and Purpose of Blood in God’s Design

This work makes important contributions to the study of the structure of the Book of Leviticus, the place of chapter 17 within the book, the interpretation of Leviticus 17, and its application to the practice of eating blood in Chinese culture. Dr. Chang has argued her case well. Her work will repay serious consideration in the academy as well as the church in China and around the world.

Richard E. Averbeck, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Old Testament and Semitic Languages,
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Illinois, USA

This thought-provoking study on Leviticus 17 not only resides within biblical-theological academia but transcends cultural boundaries. It offers a robust theological response to the consumption of blood in Chinese culture. This book is a must-read for theologians, pastors, and anyone interested in a deeper understanding of the theological implications of Leviticus in our multicultural society and globalized world.

Clement Mook-Soo Chia, PhD
Principal,
Singapore Bible College

Written by one who is at home in both the world of Leviticus and the contemporary struggles of Chinese culture, this book offers a solid and insightful theological resolution to the practice of “eating blood.” Dr. Chang skillfully helps us to bridge the gaps among Ugaritic insight, the worldview of Leviticus, and the Asian context in a thoughtful and cogent way.

Lawrence M. H. Ko, PhD
Chair, Division of Biblical Studies,
Alliance Bible Seminary, Hong Kong

Dr. Chang is to be commended for this excellent literary and theological analysis of Leviticus 17 and its contribution to a biblically incisive, culturally astute understanding of the complex cultural phenomenon of eating blood. This volume is an exceptional and welcome resource for re examining and rethinking a long - standing controversial topic, and its practical and theological implications.

Dennis R. Magary, PhD
Chair, Department of Old Testament and Semitic Languages,
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Illinois, USA

1. Abstract
2. Acknowledgments
3. Abbreviations
4. Chapter 1 Introduction and Methodological Considerations
1. Problem Statement
2. Research Methodology
3. Literature Review
4. Projection of Research Significance
5. Chapter 2 The Role of Leviticus 17 in Leviticus
1. The Relationship of Law and Narrative in the Pentateuch
2. The Connection between Leviticus 1–16 and 17
3. The Connection between Leviticus 18–27 and 17
4. A Proposed Structure of Leviticus Based on the Role of Leviticus 17
6. Chapter 3 Restriction of the Place of Offering Well-being Offerings in Leviticus 17
1. זִִבְְחֵֵי שְְׁלָָמִִים (Well-Being Offerings) in the Old Testament
2. Ancient Near Eastern Parallels to זִִבְְחֵֵי שְְׁלָָמִִים (Well-Being Offerings)
3. Examination of the “Central Altar” Debate in the OT Canonical Texts
4. A Proposal on This Restriction
7. Chapter 4 The Prohibition of Eating Blood in Leviticus 17
1. The Nature and Function of Blood in the OT Ritual System
2. The Prohibition of Eating Blood in the Pentateuch
3. Theological Implications
8. Chapter 5 Conclusion
1. The Practice of Eating Blood in Chinese Culture and the Prohibition of Eating Blood
9. Appendix 1 Observations on the Speeches of YHWH in the Sinai Pericope (Exodus 19–Numbers 10:10)
10. Appendix 2 The Translation of KTU 1.40 (RS 1.002)
11. Appendix 3 The Structure of KTU 1.40 (RS 1.002)
12. Appendix 4 The Translation of KTU 1.109 (RS 24.253)
13. Appendix 5 The Structure of KTU 1.109 (RS 24.253)
14. Bibliography