""In recent decades, the various advances reached in the dialogue between Jews and Christians have often been compromised by the inability to appreciate the biblical grounding of the doctrine of election . . . This learned, groundbreaking book fills an urgent lacuna and, as a result, is certain to become an indispensable aid for those Jewish and Christian thinkers committed to interreligious dialogue."" Gary A. Anderson, University of Notre Dame ""This marvelous book is the best presentation there is of the most misunderstood--and most maligned--teaching in the Hebrew Bible, the chosenness of Israel. It is also one of the best works of biblical theology to come out in recent years. In clear prose, unencumbered by technical jargon yet informed by wide learning and careful thinking, Professor Kaminsky analyzes this exceedingly subtle and easily misunderstood topic and uncovers major aspects of the Hebrew Bible that will surprise and enrich scholars and laypersons, Jewish, Christian, and secular alike. I recommend it highly!"" Jon D. Levenson, Harvard University ""Election is a powerful biblical theme that has played a significant role in theological reflection through the centuries . . . In Hebrew Bible studies, however, election has been too often assumed and too little explored. So Joel Kaminsky's insightful and careful study is welcome indeed. Especially to be commended are his careful analysis of texts, his balanced assessment of the evidence, and his theological alertness."" Terrence E. Fretheim, Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota