Jonah

Abstract

This essay considers the book of Jonah, the paradoxical figure for whom the book is named, its global narrative, themes and motifs, and contested issues. The article makes clear that while many readers believe that they know the story of Jonah, its storybook appearance belies its narrative complexity. Over the history of interpretation, the figure of Jonah son of Amittai has been regarded as both hero and antihero. Jonah is not called a prophet in the book. The book is written mostly in prose rather than poetry, and in contrast to other prophetic literature, it is a story about a prophet more than it is a prophetic text; thus, it could easily fit among the historical narratives or short stories in the Hebrew Bible. It remains a favorite among Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions, as well as and nonreligious audiences.