The Human Being by Walter Wink

The Human Being by Walter Wink

A thorny historical issue handled with artistry and imaginationThe epithet "the son of the man" (or "the Human Being") in the Gospels has been a highly debated topic. Wink uses this phrase to explore not only early Christology but the anthropology articulated in the Gospels. Jesus apparently avoided designations such as Messiah, Son of God, or God, though these titles were given by his disciples after his death and resurrection. But Jesus is repeatedly depicted as using the obscure expression "the Human Being" as virtually his only form of self-reference.

Wink explores how Jesus' self-referential phrase came to be universalized as the "Human Being" or "Truly Human One." The Human Being is a catalytic agent for transformation, providing the form and lure and hunger to become who we were meant to be, or more properly perhaps, to become who we truly are.

Walter Wink was a biblical interpretation professor emeritus at Auburn Theological Seminary in New York City. He also served as a professor at Union Theological Seminary. He was a Peace Fellow at the United States Institute of Peace from 1989 to 1990. He wrote multiple works, including the Fortress Press trilogy Identifying the Powers, Unmasking the Powers, and Engaging the Powers, which won several awards.