John A. Davies
This chapter of The Mercy of God in the Old Testament considers the Writings section of the Hebrew Bible to continue addressing the issue of the outlining of an Old Testament theology with God’s mercy as its focus. The Psalms contain three iterations and numerous echoes of Israel’s Compassion Creed (Exod 34:6–7). One psalm (Psalm 85) is considered as a typical example. The books of Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes have proved a challenge to integrate into a coherent Old Testament theology. In different ways these books wrestle with living in an unfair world, and the place of mercy in relation to retribution. Lamentations is a heartfelt cry of anguish at the pain of exile and all of the loss this entails, but it is not lacking a note of hope than God will not withhold his mercy forever. The book of Daniel offers hope beyond an oppressive era based on an awareness of God’s unfailing mercy. Ezra–Nehemiah and Chronicles reflect the new spirit of a chastened but expectant people who realise their hope lies in God’s continued favour.