09/03/2026
Today, we're introducing a book review by Dr. Paul Miles, Chafer Seminary Journal Editor, featured in our latest edition of Pneumatikos Vol. 17.1
"Studies in Targum Isaiah: Textual Witnesses, Translation Techniques, and Theological Exploration" by Alberdina Houtman
Introduction
This book is the most comprehensive treatment of Targum Isaiah to date, and will likely maintain this position for a generation to come. Alberdina Houtman is a Semitist with decades of experience teaching and publishing on the targums (among other topics). Studies in Targum Isaiah is the culmination of Houtman’s work with the targums, and the book reflects the high quality that researchers have come to expect from Brill.
The bulk of Studies in Targum Isaiah consists of five chapters: 1. Previous Work on Targum Isaiah, 2. The Text of Targum Isaiah, 3. The Targumic Process, 4. Theological Themes, and 5. Targum Isaiah and the New Testament. The book also includes several pages of front matter and an introduction, as well as an epilogue and extensive back matter. In terms of page count, the book could be divided roughly in half: chapters 1 through 3 (pp. 4–166) and chapters 4 and 5 (pp. 167–347). These two halves also relate to two themes: the first concerns Targum Isaiah itself, and the second concerns its doctrine.
To read more, see the FREE online/PDF version here:
https://www.chafer.edu/Studies-in-Targum-Isaiah-Textual-Witnesses-Translation-Techniques-etc-Book-Review-by-Paul-Miles
If you'd like to purchase a physical copy for yourself: https://a.co/d/006xwfKe
Learn more about Chafer Theological Seminary: https://www.chafer.edu/