Daniel for the Twenty-First Century: Four Authors in Dialogue
About this Event
What does the Book of Daniel have to say to the twenty-first century?
Daniel is one of the Bible’s most fascinating—and most frequently misunderstood—books. Its stories of life under empire, mysterious dreams, extraordinary visions, strange beasts, angels, and revelations have inspired readers for more than two thousand years. But how should we understand this ancient book today?
Join four distinguished biblical scholars for a lively and accessible conversation about Daniel’s history, theology, visions, and enduring significance.
This unusual evening brings together Tremper Longman III, John H. Walton, Aubrey E. Buster, and Stephen L. Cook—four scholars whose recent work on Daniel represents three major new commentaries on the book.
Rather than a series of formal lectures or an academic debate, Four Authors in Dialog will be a conversational exploration of Daniel. Where do these scholars agree? Where do they see things differently? What has historical and archaeological research taught us about Daniel’s world? How should we approach its visions and symbolism? And what might Daniel have to say about faithfulness, political power, hope, human imagination, and our understanding of reality today?
The conversation is intended for everyone. No previous study of Daniel is necessary. Clergy, congregants, students, scholars, and anyone curious about the Bible are warmly invited.
The scholars
Tremper Longman III is Distinguished Scholar and Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Westmont College and the author of numerous books and biblical commentaries, including a commentary on Daniel.
John H. Walton is Professor of Old Testament Emeritus at Wheaton College and the author or coauthor of numerous books on the Old Testament and its ancient context.
Aubrey E. Buster is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College and coauthor, with John Walton, of a major new two-volume commentary on Daniel.
Stephen L. Cook is Catherine N. McBurney Professor of Old Testament Language and Literature at Virginia Theological Seminary and author of the newly published Daniel in Baker Academic’s Commentary on the Old Testament Prophetic Books series.
What to expect
The evening will feature an engaging moderated conversation among the four scholars, followed by an opportunity for audience engagement and informal conversation.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026 7:00–8:30 PM
Old Town Community Church 212 S. Washington Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged.
Books will be available for conversation and signing following the program.
On-street parking is available near the church and at the garage at 111 South Pitt Street.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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