Since its inception and enthusiastic acceptance at the beginning of the twentieth century, form criticism has diminished in popularity and use in recent years. Bryan H. Cribb’s significant contribution to the discipline, Speaking on the Brink of Sheol, demonstrates that, if appropriately modified, form criticism still has much to add to Old Testament studies. Using a synchronic and inductive approach to the text, Cribb engages in a form critical study of nine “death stories” in the Old Testament. In so doing, he not only provides substantial support for the existence of this genre, which hitherto has not been identified by form critics, but he also shows how remarkably fruitful such a study can be in revealing the messages of these accounts.

The books respective chapters will appeal to a variety of readers. The student of ancient Near Eastern thought will find a helpful summary of the thanatological thought of the ancient civilizations surrounding Israel and of Israel itself. The form critic will profit from the refreshing modification of traditional form critical methodology in a synchronic direction. And all will gain a greater appreciation for the complex literary artistry of the Hebrew writers. But as the book’s title suggests, the main goal of this form critical work is to provide the biblical exegete greater insight into these intricate stories of individuals on the brink of Sheol.