The Third Sword
On The Political Role of Prophets

Prophets have decisively shaped our politics, but we lack a good explanation of how they do so.

James Bernard Murphy (Author)

9781009372282, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 7 December 2023

208 pages
23.5 x 15.6 x 1.7 cm, 0.43 kg

'A compelling study of some key ingredients of prophetic identity.' Samuel Hildebrandt, Journal for the Study of the Old Testament

Prophets are wild cards in the game of politics, James Bernard Murphy writes in this startling new book. They risk their lives by calling out the abuses of political and religious leaders, forcing us to confront evils we would prefer to ignore. By setting moral limits on political leaders, prophets chasten our political pretensions and remind us there are values that transcend politics. They wield a third sword—distinct from the familiar swords of state and church power—their sword is the word of God. The Third Sword offers a new take on political history, illustrating a theory of prophetic politics through tales of political crises, interspersed with direct dialogue between the prophets and their persecutors. With chapters on Socrates, Jesus, Joan of Arc, Thomas More, and Martin Luther King, Murphy brings these prophets to life with storytelling that blends biography, history, and political theory.

Introduction: what is prophetic politics?
1. The Hebrew prophets
2. Socrates
3. Jesus of Nazareth
4. Joan of arc
5. Thomas more
6. Martin Luther King Jr
Conclusion: the power of no.

Subject Areas: Political science & theory [JPA]