Timothy J. Sandoval

Timothy J. Sandoval's new book argues that the Book of Proverbs presents a coherent, consistent system of the morality of money and finance, rather than, as other scholars have argued, an often contradictory or arbitrary collection of sayings. He argues that Proverbs differs from other collections of sayings and morals as found in other cultures in that it represents this singular point of view. He presents his interpretation of the sages' wisdom while addressing modern concerns about finances, such as investing, giving to charity and caring for the poor. He also tries to refute the idea of the Prosperity Gospel.

Sandoval divides the book into five sections in which he covers what defines a proverb and what distinguishes Proverbs from proverbs; understanding the origins of Proverbs and its cultural context; then, in the remaining chapters, examining the content of Proverbs. Sandoval discusses issues of social justice and how to start to think about using and earning money in a way that accords with "socially just" goals. He uses examples from popular culture as well as from the Bible to underscore his points and offers a little in the way of direct advice.

Money and the Way of Wisdom is more about interpreting the Bible than it is about self-help or financial advice. The book can act as a starting point for thinking about the issues raised in Proverbs and an introduction to interpreting Proverbs as well. The book would be useful to scholars beginning to study Proverbs and to those looking for discussion of issues of money as presented in the Bible. It is recommended for academic collections.… (altro)