Old Testaments Books

Book SynopsisMany today may see the relationship between God and humanity as one of passive submission and thus unquestioning. Two outstanding Dominicans, Timothy Radcliffe and Lukasz Popko. suggest otherwise. Questioning God explores Biblical conversations with God and there is no genuine conversation without true questions. Our God question us, from the first conversation of God and humanity in the Bible, where God asks Adam, ''Where are you?'', to the Risen Lord''s questioning Peter on the beach: ''Do you love me more than these others?'' But humanity questions God too, as in the audacious questioning of Jesus by the Samaritan woman at the well. In this process of mutual questioning, humanity is drawn ever deeper into the life of God, the eternal conversation of the Trinity. Insights into these transformative conversations are helpful as the Church questions how to be faithful to God in this uncertain time. Fr Popko offers a fresh translation and insights of Biblical s

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Book SynopsisWhat you believe about God sets the foundation of the person you will become.In God Has a Name, pastor and New York Times bestselling author John Mark Comer invites you to rethink many of the prevalent myths and misconceptions about God and weigh them against what God actually tells us about himself. After all, what you believe about God will ultimately shape the type of person you become.We all live at the mercy of our ideas, and nowhere is this more true than our ideas about God. The problem is many of our ideas about God are wrong. Not all wrong, but wrong enough to form our souls in detrimental and disheartening ways.God Has a Name is a simple yet profound guide to understanding God in a new light--focusing on what God says about himself in the Bible. This one shift has the potential to radically alter how you relate to God, not as a doctrine, but as a relational being who respo

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Book SynopsisThe book of Isaiah is a collection of prophecies that is more than a historical record or teaching. It is the overarching vision of the heart of God revealed to his prophet. It spans the ages and touches every nation on earth, becoming a collective overview of all that God has planned.

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Book SynopsisLeading apologetics writer with a proven track record tackles the most difficult Old Testament passages and topics, helping readers to reconcile the God of righteousness with the God of love.

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Book SynopsisA brilliant and dramatic close reading of the first book of the Bible focussing on the complex relationship with humankind''A work of exceptional wisdom and imagination'' DR ROWAN WILLIAMS, DAILY TELEGRAPH''Rich and provoking... Robinson has masterfully traced a sense of wonder back to its ancient, remarkable source'' JULIAN COMAN, OBSERVER''Reading Genesis is alive with questions of kindness, community and how to express what we so often struggle to put into words'' NEW YORK TIMES MAGAZINEFor generations, the Book of Genesis, included in its entirety here, has been treated by scholars as a collection of documents by various hands, expressing different factional interests, with borrowings from other ancient literatures that mark the text as derivative. In other words, academic interpretation of Genesis has centered on the question of its basic coherence, just as fundamentalist interpreta

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Book SynopsisThe Word Biblical Commentary delivers the best in biblical scholarship, from the leading scholars of our day who share a commitment to Scripture as divine revelation. This series emphasizes a thorough analysis of textual, linguistic, structural, and theological evidence. The result is judicious and balanced insight into the meanings of the text in the framework of biblical theology. These widely acclaimed commentaries serve as exceptional resources for the professional theologian and instructor, the seminary or university student, the working minister, and everyone concerned with building theological understanding from a solid base of biblical scholarship.Overview of Commentary Organization Introduction—covers issues pertaining to the whole book, including context, date, authorship, composition, interpretive issues, purpose, and theology. Each section of the commentary includes: Pericope Bibliography—a helpful resource containing the mos

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Book SynopsisThis is the first of a two-volume Bible commentary covering the Psalms and examining the role of these biblical poems throughout Jewish and Christian history. Volume One provides a fascinating introduction to the literary, historical, and theological background of psalmody.Trade Review“Dr Gillingham has already published widely on the Psalms, and we look forward to her second volume.” (Journal of Theological Studies, 1 October 2013) “A most impressive piece of work ...The coverage is truly encyclopaedic in scope and nothing seems to have escaped Gillingham’s attention.” —Journal for the Study of the Old Testament “Gillingham meticulously masters the diverse reception history of the psalms ... Every page is bursting with solid research and influential insight. An invaluable addition to the field.” —Religious Studies Review “This wonderful book whets the appetite both for its second volume, and for more volumes of this valuable series … [A] highly innovative and promising project.” —International Review of Biblical StudiesTable of ContentsList of Illustrations xi Series Editors’ Preface xiii Preface xv Preface to the Paperback Edition xvii Works Cited xix Introduction: Towards a Reception-History Commentary on the Psalms 1 1 The Eleventh Century BCE to the Fifth Century CE: Translation, Exposition, Instruction, Liturgy and the Prophetic Bias 5 Jewish Reception 5 From Composition to Compilation to Translation 5 Exposition: The Prophetic Bias 9 Instruction through Imitations of Psalms 11 Christian Reception 13 The Psalms as Prophecies in the New Testament 14 The Psalms as Prophecies in the Church Fathers 24 Alexandrian Commentators 28 Liturgical Adaptations of the Psalms 40 Christian Liturgy 40 Jewish Liturgy 43 Concluding Observations 46 2 The Fifth to Eleventh Centuries: Liturgy, Exposition, Artistic Representation 47 Christian Reception 47 Liturgy 47 Exposition, Homily, Translation 55 Artistic Representation 62 Jewish Reception 68 Liturgy 68 Translation, Exposition, Homily 71 Artistic Representation 75 Concluding Observations 75 3 The Eleventh to Fifteenth Centuries: Learning and Discerning 77 Jewish and Christian Controversies through Exegetical Works 77 Preliminary Considerations 77 Jewish Commentators 82 Christian Commentators 87 Christian and Jewish Artists 95 Christian Illumination 95 Jewish Illumination 104 Christian and Jewish Didactic Works 113 Christian Writers 113 Jewish Writers 117 Christian and Jewish Liturgy 120 Christian Adaptations 120 Jewish Adaptations 123 Translation in Christian Tradition 123 Concluding Observations 130 4 The Fifteenth to Seventeenth Centuries: Democratization and Dissemination 131 Reception as Translation: Christian Responses 131 Commentary, Liturgy, Homily and Translation on the Continent 131 Liturgy, Homily and Translation in England and Scotland 146 Reception as Aesthetic Representation: Jewish and Christian Responses 163 Jewish Reception through Art and Music 163 Christian Reception through Art, Literary Imitation and Music 166 Concluding Observations 190 5 The Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries: Secularization and Revitalization 192 Christian Responses 194 Exegetical Works 194 Devotional Works 203 Musical Reception 220 Reception through Liturgy 228 Translations of Psalmody 230 Jewish Responses 234 Reception as Translation and Liturgy 234 Reception as Homily and Exegesis 237 Aesthetic Responses 239 Concluding Observations 240 6 The Twentieth to Twenty-First Centuries: Pluralism and Ecumenism 242 Christian and Jewish Translations of Psalmody 246 Liturgy and Psalmody in Christian and Jewish Traditions 254 Exegetical Studies, Christian and Jewish 266 Devotional Works, Christian and Jewish 282 Aesthetic Responses, Christian and Jewish 290 Concluding Observations 307 Conclusion: From Introduction to Commentary 309 Glossary 313 References 322 Index of Psalms 351 Index of Names 361 Subject Index 368

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Book SynopsisThe Old Testament is full of many remarkable stories that pose a challenge to our modern understanding. In this collection of essays, Rudolf Frieling demonstrates his unique gift for delving deeper into the meaning of the Old Testament stories, presenting them from a fresh perspective that makes them more comprehensible to today's readers. In this insightful book Frieling: -- Explores the accounts of the creation of the human being in Genesis.-- Demonstrates the ongoing power of the Psalms. -- Shows how the events of the Old Testament are a preparation for the coming of Christ. Frieling's commanding grasp of the original Hebrew and close attention to detail brings to life the rich imagery of these accounts and songs, making this a unique guide to the wisdom of the Old Testament.Trade Review'A fundamental aspect of Frieling’s approach shines out the moment one starts reading: his wide, deep and detailed knowledge of Hebrew, of the Bible and of other ancient literature. His unique ability to elucidate the meaning of words as they were used at the time of their writing and to place them into the context of what precedes and what follows them brings the text to life and makes stimulating reading… Frieling’s comprehensive grasp of his subject allows him to show convincingly, in a most lively and inspiring manner, how stories and events in the Old Testament again and again transpire as precursors of what is developed further or which reaches its fulfilment in the New Testament; his recounting of the story of the sacrifice of Isaac, or even the story of Creation, seen in this light, are positively gripping… Investigated in this warm, sympathetic, but also precise way, the Old Testament no longer appears as a relic from a bygone age, but much more as an essential aid to grasping the place and role of Christianity in the world… An enlivening and thought-provoking read.'-- Perspectives

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Book SynopsisBestselling author and well-known preacher, R.T. Kendall, unfolds the meaning of persistent faith. Starting with the story of Enoch, Dr. Kendall explores biblical teachings that call believers to “find out what pleases the Lord” (Ephesians 5:10).Trade Review'My friend and brother in Christ has given us a timely reflection on walking with a holy God. R.T., a man whom we are proud to recognize as a graduate of Trevecca, blends careful exegesis with lived experience. This equals wisdom. In a world bent on seeking pleasure and seeking to please, it is grounding to realize that we can, in Christ, please the God who knit us together, called us by name, and poured his life into us. I pray that you may emerge from this book with a purer desire to please God.' * Dan Boone, President, Trevecca Nazarene University *'As a child, I desired to please my father. Nothing seemed more important than putting a smile on his face and hearing him say, 'Well done.' Likewise, every Christian should desire to please his heavenly Father. In his new book Pleasing God, R.T. Kendall shares biblical steps to experience the Lord's pleasure. Read and apply it, and you'll experience God's affirming smile.' * Pastor Steve Gaines, PhD, Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, TN *'In virtual world of likes, shares and retweets, the temptation to please others presses on us all the time. As a humble guide, R.T. Kendall offers a much-needed course correction for why we should and how we can please God. I've had the privilege of watching Dr. Kendall live out the pages of this book in his own life. Your intimacy with God will be deeper after reading this book.' * Robby Gallaty, Pastor, Long Hollow Church, Author of Recovered and Growing Up *'R.T. Kendall is a gift to the body of Christ across the world. His newest book, Pleasing God, challenges me to live a life that prioritizes pleasing God above everything else. The message of this book is so needed across the Church today. It is urgent that we share it across the world. Please get a copy of this book, read it, and encourage others to do the same.' * Dr. Ronnie W. Floyd Author, Ministry Strategist, and Pastor Emeritus, Cross Church *'Once again, Dr. Kendall has given us an updated and practical recipe for our Christian lives. The reader will find a new lens for the examination of our active faith. Thank you, R. T.!' * John Dixon MD, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine *

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Book SynopsisThe Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the Old Testament series serves pastors and teachers by providing them with a careful discourse analysis and interpretation of the Hebrew text, tracing the flow of argument in each Old Testament book and showing that how a biblical author says something is just as important as what they say.Trade Review'A deep yet accessible engagement with a book so often ignored by biblical readers. This commentary is the fruit of decades of this respected scholar's reflection on the text of Leviticus and provides an insider look at the priestly system that informs so many biblical texts. Here you will find a detailed map, but also a satellite view of the way these details fit within the broader context of Israel's faith and the Bible's overarching story and theology.' * Mark J. Boda, professor of Old Testament, McMaster Divinity College *'As a pastor wearing many hats and often short on time, having a specialist like Jay Sklar on Leviticus cannot be overstated. Sklar is both careful with the ancient text and helpful with its modern consequence. I have been recently preaching through Leviticus. And I have gotten many comments in response and been blessed to watch many of my people appreciate holiness and love the cross of Christ. But having confidence in what I teach is virtually impossible without a careful specialist like Jay Sklar to clear the clouds of confusion and lighten the way of truth. Recommended!' * Jeff K. Zehnder, senior pastor, Fairview Reformed Presbyterian Church, Ohioville, Pennsylvania *'Evolving from Jay's Leviticus, Tyndale Old Testament Commentary, this new edition in the ZECOT series exposits Leviticus with clarity, pastoral wisdom, and with a rich theological vision for the restoration of a flourishing humanity in God's kingly presence. In a world marred with blurred relational boundaries and a desire to choose our own identity on our own terms, the world-wide church is in desperate need of pastors who have wrestled with Leviticus's message prayerfully and who are willing to preach Leviticus's message as Christian Scripture both in and out of season. This commentary is a gift to every pastor who wishes to be equipped to preach and teach Leviticus's message faithfully so that God's people can reflect light and life in a dark and broken world.' * Katherine Davis, research Fellow, Sydney Missionary & Bible College *'For many modern Christians, Leviticus is the book we avoid: too many laws, too much blood, too far removed from everyday life. In this new commentary, Jay Sklar has provided a masterful resource to help unlock this difficult book for contemporary hearers. For my own preaching on Leviticus, Sklar's commentary has been the single most helpful volume I've consulted. It is everything a pastor needs: scholarly precision, awareness of the modern context, deep spiritual insights, sharp pastoral illustrations, and a love for Christ, our atoning sacrifice. This commentary is a true gift to the church.' * Billy Boyce, lead pastor, Christ Church of Arlington *'I first heard some of Jay Sklar's lectures on Leviticus well over a decade ago and they made an impression. I remember being so encouraged by his clear love for the biblical text, by his Christocentric reading of Leviticus, and by the fervency of his love for Jesus and the church. More than a decade later, these same qualities shine through the pages of this commentary and make it such a valuable guide and aid for preaching through Leviticus. I found Sklar, in the pages of this commentary, a tremendously helpful dialogue partner when preaching through the challenging but rewarding terrain of Leviticus.' * Mark Booker senior minister, Park Street Church, Boston, Massachusetts *'Jay Sklar is one of the leading Christian interpreters of Leviticus, a book he describes as 'divine law spoken directly from the heavenly King.' With unmatched clarity that rests on a careful exposition of the original text, Sklar brings the God of Leviticus near so that we can hear the divine words for ourselves. His deeply theological approach and meaningful analogies make a compelling case for the ongoing relevance of Leviticus's vision for holy living today.' * Christine Palmer, faculty in Old Testament, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary *'Many find themselves daunted, puzzled, or even troubled by Leviticus. Others wonder how they might teach this book to an audience already convinced of its irrelevance. Jay Sklar addresses such concerns in this readable and thorough commentary which powerfully demonstrates the enduring value of Leviticus for the church. A fresh translation of the Hebrew text, augmented with analysis of structural dynamics, provides a firm foundation for informed and sensible exegesis. The theological themes thereby unveiled, read with canonical awareness, lead to compelling implications for Christian thinking and practice. For those who want to grapple with Leviticus in all its complex beauty, this volume is a must.' * G. Geoffrey Harper, director of research and lecturer in Old Testament, Sydney Missionary and Bible College *'Sklar's new commentary on Leviticus is erudite, comprehensive, and also remarkably practical. Preachers and teachers will appreciate the rigorous attention to application found throughout the volume and will also be grateful for the way that explanations of passage after passage are undergirded by exegetical precision and thorough theological analysis. This is a must-have commentary for any serious student of Leviticus.' * Douglas Stuart, senior professor of Old Testament, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary *'This commentary is a magnificent achievement. Over the past two decades, the author has become one of the leading scholars on the Book of Leviticus. In this volume he very helpfully summarizes his many previous scholarly analyses and conclusions about the ritual procedures as he works his way through the book. This lays a solid foundation for the understanding of the Levitical rituals. In the present volume, however, Sklar goes beyond his previous work through his careful rhetorical analysis and his many applications to Jesus Christ, Christians, and the church. This is a thoroughly Christian commentary. On virtually every page, the author shows that he has thought long and deep about the application of Leviticus to our lives and to our reading of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.' * Richard Averbeck, professor emeritus of Old Testament and Semitic languages, Trinity International University *'This commentary on Leviticus is a gift to both the academy and the church. Jay Sklar offers a perceptive reading of the book within its ancient Near Eastern context, giving careful attention to the Hebrew text in an accessible way. The commentary's greatest strength, though, is its theological synthesis. Sklar persuasively presents Leviticus as a vision of God's purposes for humanity in creation, providing thoughtful reflection on the role that Christians can have within this vision today. In doing so, Sklar breathes new life into Leviticus for the scholar, pastor, and informed layperson. This is a commentary that I will turn to again and again in order to learn from its many valuable theological insights.' * Benjamin J. Noonan associate professor of Old Testament & Hebrew, Columbia International University *

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Book SynopsisA chapter-by-chapter explanation of the Book of Exodus, revealing its wisdom about nation building and people formationTrade Review“A wondrous achievement of humanistic scholarship at its very best, making Exodus’s ancient words live again as a source of political wisdom and spiritual inspiration for our time.”—Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks"What Leon Kass describes as living with the book over two decades enabled him to glean from it insights into the deepest existential questions, what Kass himself calls 'longings of the soul.' His greatest achievement is to give readers a glimpse of these insights and suggest to us the possibility—and profound value—of exploring them ourselves."— Robert P. George, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence, Princeton University"Leon Kass maps the Book of Exodus with unmatched intelligence. We have known the book through the interpretations of generations of sages, but here he reads it as though for the first time to see the Jewish nation emerging from slavery and taking its civilizing shape. This is the most exciting book I’ve read in years"—Ruth Wisse, professor emerita of Yiddish Literature, Harvard University"Building on his earlier insightful study of the family in Genesis, Leon Kass turns to the formation of the Israelite nation in Exodus, with an openness to discovery sparked by perceptive observations and guided by fundamental questions."—Ronna Burger, Catherine & Henry J. Gaisman Professor of Philosophy, Tulane University“To be guided through Exodus by Leon Kass is to discover in those familiar stories a font of political wisdom and a provocation to reflection on the meaning of human flourishing.”—Mary Ann Glendon, author of A World Made New: Eleanor Roosevelt and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

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Book SynopsisIn this accessible book, Ian J. Vaillancourt gives Christians a helpful introduction to the Pentateuch as the essential first act in the Bible's grand story of redemption.

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Book SynopsisAn indispensable guide for exploring the literary, historical, and theological issues behind the Old Testament.Trade Review'A Survey of the Old Testament by Andrew E. Hill and John H. Walton is a meticulously crafted survey written with remarkable clarity, containing insightful commentary, vibrant images of archaeological discoveries and historical contexts, invaluable tables, stimulating questions, and scholarly rigor examining the rich tapestry of the literary, historical, and theological aspects of the Old Testament. It is an exceptional introduction and essential companion for students, scholars, and individuals eager to embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament that breathes life into the ancient world and sheds light on its enduring cultural and theological significance.' * Kyung Baek, vice president of academic affairs and director of biblical and theological studies, Pacific Life Bible College *'A wonderful introduction, both textual and visual, to the Old Testament as Holy Scripture that is rooted in the realities of ancient time and space. Highly recommended!' * Iain Provan, retired, Marshall Sheppard Professor of Biblical Studies, Regent College *'Combining attention to historical backgrounds, literary features, and theological themes with a nuanced treatment of critical issues and hundreds of images that bring the world of the Old Testament to life, Survey of the Old Testament has been my go-to textbook for introductory classes. The fourth edition points readers to a wealth of recent resources for further learning and offers updated discussions of key issues, which will make it a preferred text for the next generation of students.' * Brittany Kim, adjunct professor at North Park Theological Seminary and coauthor of Understanding Old Testament Theology *'Hill and Walton are tour guides on an adventure through the Old Testament with years of experience living with the text. They not only help students navigate the facts and figures, themes, and theology of the Old Testament but also invite students to explore and appreciate the riches of ancient Israel's history and culture. This is not merely a textbook. It is a veritable encyclopedia of Old Testament studies!' * Kyle Greenwood, associated faculty of Old Testament, Denver Seminary *'Hill and Walton ask good questions for the beginning student as they turn its pages and seek to understand it as Christian Scripture. The strength of the volume lies in its exploration of key themes, presented as they arise in each biblical book, and also as they intersect with the larger canonical storyline. This provides a unified approach to the Christian canon and a deeper awareness of how the Old Testament fits into the Christian Bible. The work is also supported by a treasury of visuals, such as maps and photographs of landscapes and artifacts, which help bring the biblical world to life.' * George Athas, director of research, Moore Theological College *'Hill and Walton's introduction to the Old Testament addresses key questions and content in meaningful ways. Vivid pictures, archaeological artifacts, and colorful maps make this journey an enjoyable one, whether you are a student or an interested reader!' * Beth Stovell, professor of Old Testament and chair of general theological studies, Ambrose University *'Hill and Walton's standard evangelical introduction to the Old Testament has only gotten better with its fourth edition. Expect the same authoritative content, updated to reflect the latest scholarship, but in a tighter and cleaner layout that is visually appealing and creates a more compact textbook for a new generation of readers.' * Kevin L. Anderson, professor of Bible and theology, Asbury University *'Hill and Walton's Survey of the Old Testament has been a trusted textbook for many years, including in my own training as an Old Testament specialist. This new version retains the best features of its predecessors while continuing to provide the latest content in a user-friendly way. Highly recommended!' * Jerry Hwang, affiliate research professor, Singapore Bible College *'How rare to find a new edition that's shorter and more focused. Hill and Walton lightly update their standard college textbook and tighten the spotlight on the key message of each Old Testament book. An attractive starting point for budding explorers.' * Andrew Malone, lecturer in biblical studies, Ridley College, Melbourne, Australia *'I'm always pointing my students to Walton and Hill's A Survey of the Old Testament. But I also find myself going back to this book again and again because it keeps yielding fresh insight on key topics in every Old Testament book. If you want to engage seriously and faithfully with God's Word, this comprehensive text will serve you and your students brilliantly.' * Dan Y-W. Wu, lecturer in Old Testament, Moore Theological College *'It is a joy to commend this updated edition of Hill and Walton's classic textbook to a new generation of Old Testament students. Readers will gain insights about the overall purpose and message of each Old Testament book, as well as the most significant issues in the secondary literature--such as historicity, archaeology, and other major interpretive trends. All the while, conservative and critical positions are summarized from an evangelical perspective. Students, pastors, and scholars would do well to keep this book on their short stack of key resources on the Old Testament.' * Ian Vaillancourt, professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, Heritage Theological Seminary and author of The Dawning of Redemption *'John Walton and Andrew Hill are two of the very best Old Testament scholars of my generation. I am so thankful they have updated their bestselling and influential textbook, A Survey of the Old Testament, for the next generation of students. I enthusiastically recommend it.' * Tremper Longman III, distinguished scholar and professor emeritus of biblical studies, Westmont College *'Students and instructors alike will enthusiastically welcome the latest edition of this trusted textbook. Updated chapters helpfully synthesize the contents of the biblical books in the form of major themes, enabling students to readily grasp what each book is about and to connect its message with the Christian faith. What's more, like its previous editions, the book boasts an attractive and engaging layout with an abundance of color graphics. Students will profit immensely from this accessible and insightful introduction to the Hebrew Bible, resulting in a greater enjoyment of and appreciation for the Old Testament as Christian Scripture.' * Benjamin J. Noonan, associate professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, Columbia International University *'This is a well-written and finely illustrated survey of the Old Testament. It is readable for college students, and both students and professors can rely on it for evenhanded treatment of difficult topics in Old Testament studies. This new updated edition is welcome.' * Richard Averbeck, professor emeritus of Old Testament and Semitic Languages, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School *'This new edition of A Survey of the Old Testament will continue the usefulness of this work that has been so widely used previously. With its evenhanded yet basically traditional approach, it can be recommended to all who look for a trustworthy handbook to read alongside the Bible itself.' * John Oswalt, visiting distinguished professor of Old Testament, Asbury Theological Seminary *'With deep awareness of the historical context and literary form, Hill and Walton provide guidance on both the content of the Old Testament and how to read it well. With this fourth edition, they have provided a new generation of readers with invaluable assistance in understanding and applying its riches.' * David Firth, tutor in Old Testament, Trinity College Bristol *'With good reason, A Survey of the Old Testament has been a leading textbook on the Hebrew Scriptures in colleges and seminaries around the world. Summary treatments, enhanced by stunning pictures, color maps, and helpful charts, enable students to learn the biblical material with an appreciation for its literary quality, theological message, and cultural setting. Now in its fourth edition, this remains a classroom standard that will surely benefit a new generation of learners.' * L. Michael Morales, professor of biblical studies, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary *

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Book SynopsisThe Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the Old Testament series is the go-to resource for pastors and Bible teachers looking for deep but accessible study that equips them to connect the needs of Christians today with the biblical text.Trade Review'A broadly inclusive, evangelical commentary on Daniel that at the same time engages respectfully and thoroughly the critical issues without partisanship, argument, or accusation. This is one of a kind!' * RONALD W. PIERCE, professor of Old Testament, Talbot School of Theology *'A masterful introduction followed by close analysis at the microlevel, clear discourse analysis at the microlevel, and stimulating biblical theological treatment at the intertextual level. And Widder's ability to link all of this to the big idea at each point makes for stimulating reading--I literally read it straight through. Henceforth, it's my go-to commentary on Daniel.' * DALE BRUEGGEMANN, retired missionary and educator *'A new day for Daniel studies. If persons were trapped until they preached through Daniel--which describes the way many approach such a series--and only one commentary was allowed, it's an easy choice. Wendy Widder's commentary combines her expertise in Hebrew and Aramaic and builds on her series of important studies on Daniel over the past decade. She never minimizes interpretive difficulties. But Wendy leads us past the long-line of interpretive cul-de-sacs created by earlier commentators on Daniel. Anyone who wants to understand and teach Daniel and trust the Most High God needs to start here.' * GARY EDWARD SCHNITTJER, distinguished professor of Old Testament, Cairn University *'I have come to appreciate the clarity and precision of Dr. Widder's writing over the years, so it is with great pleasure that I commend her latest work on Daniel. Readers of this volume will find a solid command of the challenging issues surrounding Daniel blended with up-to-date insights from discourse analysis and linguistic approaches to the Hebrew and Aramaic text.' * STEVEN RUNGE, scholar in residence, Clear Bible *'Widder provides a close reading of the text of Daniel, highlighting the essential features of the book's clauses in its original languages. By auditing how the book creates its discourse, she builds a solid platform for moving from grammar and syntax towards meaning and theological interpretation. Students will appreciate the attention to detail, as well as the wider connections Widder makes between different parts of the book of Daniel. Widder does not shy away from the difficult critical issues, of which there are many. She presents multiple perspectives, which she evaluates with generosity, while also being up front with the conservative Christian framework within which she is working. Christian exegetes and preachers will find both food for thought and good guidance for their analysis and preaching endeavors.' * GEORGE ATHAS, director of research, Moore Theological College *'Widder provides well-reasoned evangelical positions on critical matters and her comments are thorough, clear, and accessible. Her translations are carefully crafted to convey the nuances of the Hebrew and Aramaic, and it is clear she has a deep familiarity with the book. Her facility in discourse-linguistic analysis is evident throughout, making it a wonderful contribution to the series.' * JOHN COOK, professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages and director of Hebrew language Instruction, Asbury Theological Seminary *

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Book SynopsisDemonstrating how the Old Testament or Hebrew Bible represents the first, and one of the most elaborate, projects of 'peoplehood,' Wright tells the dramatic story of the Bible's origins in relation to 1) a longstanding political division between North and South (Israel and Judah) and 2) the traumatic experience of defeat.Trade Review'The Bible began, Jacob Wright argues, for reasons that have everything to do with why the termsnation and religion remain so fearfully combustible to this day. A large and important topic engaged in a fresh and welcome way.' Jack Miles, author of the Pulitzer-Prize winning God: A Biography'Profoundly insightful. Wright demonstrates how ancient Israel and Judah developed the resources to construct a resilient nationhood not in spite of but, paradoxically, because of the experience of military defeat, economic devastation, and diaspora. No other kingdom of the ancient Near East was able to do so. Today, as so many communities, peoples and nations face similar critical threats to their existence, Wright's book provides a fascinating and incisively argued case study of how one people drew upon its cultural resources not simply to survive but to generate a vibrantly creative intellectual and spiritual tradition.' Carol A. Newsom, Candler Professor Emerita of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible, Emory University'This book takes questions about the Bible's origins to another level of historical inquiry…. Superbly written and a fascinating approach that expands the normal range of biblical studies in a remarkable way!' Konrad Schmid, co-author of The Making of the Bible: From the First Fragments to Sacred Scripture'By one of the brightest minds in the field, this is a book on the Bible that all will want to read: an exquisitely written and innovative tribute to the nameless scribes who responded to destruction and defeat by building a powerful new form of community that no army could conquer. Venturing beyond the Bible's religious teachings to its political and social dimensions, Wright's tour de force demonstrates why this body of literature still matters for us today.' Rabbi Tamara Cohn Eskenazi, Professor and President of the Society of Biblical Literature, 2024'What a compelling read, and I found myself enthralled! This beautifully written work offers fresh insights on the origins of the People of the Book. It not only draws on the most recent historical research, but also incorporates contemporary approaches such as trauma hermeneutics, gender, and postcolonial criticism in a way that makes it feel that these approaches are central to the project and not merely an afterthought. The presence of female characters especially struck me as we move from the nation's earliest origins, with a Family Story becoming a People's History and the National Narrative supplementing a Palace History. Indeed, this book speaks of writing to survive as the voices of the people of protest are preserved for us amidst the pages of the biblical witness.' L. Juliana Claassens, author of Writing and Reading to Survive'A revelation, even to those who have read the Bible for a lifetime! We witness how in the aftermath of catastrophic defeat and devastation, the biblical authors fashioned a new form of political community--one in which a shared body of texts provided common ground for deeply divided communities and the marginalized in their communities. At the heart of the Hebrew Bible is, as Wright shows, not a creed but a question: What does it mean to be a people? In our time of deepening divisions, both this question and the ways in which these ancient writers addressed it deserve renewed, and serious, attention.' Robert M. Franklin, President Emeritus, Morehouse College'Wright's analysis is often brilliant and persuasive, leading us to see ideological fractures in texts that we thought we knew. And though much of the textual history will be familiar to scholars who have gone deep into the weeds, or the bulrushes, Wright does a terrific job of bringing it forward for his readers.' Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker'[a] landmark study … Thought-provoking and scrupulously researched, this is a tour de force.' Unsigned, Publisher's WeeklyTable of ContentsI. The Rise and Fall: 1. Abraham and Sarah: From One to the Many; 2. Miriam: Empire and Exodus; 3. Deborah: A New Dawn; 4. David: Between North and South; 5. Ahab and Jezebel: Putting Israel on the Map; 6. Jehu and Elisha: Israel's Downfall and Judah's Jubilation; 7. Hezekiah and Isaiah: Putting Judah on the Map; 8. Josiah and Huldah: Judah's Downfall and Deportation; II. Admitting Defeat: 9. Daughter Zion: Finding One's Voice; 10. The Creator: Comforting the Afflicted; 11. Haggai the Prophet: Laying the Foundation; 12. Nehemiah the Builder: Restoring Judean Pride; 13. Ezra the Educator: Becoming a People of the Book; 14. Hoshayahu the Soldier: Peoplehood as a Pedagogical Project; III. A New Narrative: 15. Jeremiah and Baruch: A Monument to Defeat; 16. Isaac and Rebekah: The Family Story; 17. Moses and Joshua: The People's History; 18. Hannah and Samuel: The Palace History; 19. Solomon and the Queen of Sheba: The National Narrative; 20. Jonah: The Prophets as Survival Literature; 21. Yhwh's People: Codes, Covenant, and Kinship; IV. A People of Protest: 22. Matriarch: Women and the Biblical Agenda; 23. The Hero: Redefining Gender Roles; 24. The Other: Tales of War, Outsiders, and Allegiance; 25. The Soldier: Sacrificial Death and Eternal Life; 26. Prophet and Priest: Open Access and Separation of Powers; 27. The Sage: Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes; 28. The Poet: The Song of Songs and Psalms; 29. The Queen: Peoplehood without Piety.

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Book SynopsisAre you or someone you love desperate for a miracle? As witnessed through Scripture, the God who was and is and is to come has been performing miracles from the beginning of time---so you can trust that Jesus wants to do something miraculous in your life today.

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Book SynopsisThis volume surveys recent developments in the study of Old Testament wisdom; discusses issues that have arisen in Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes; examines the Song of Songs, Ruth and some Psalms as wisdom texts; and explores wisdom and biblical theology, the concept of retribution, and the issue of divine absence.Trade Reviewan illuminating and, in places, inspiring read * Evangelicals Now *

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Book SynopsisJohn Piper demonstrates the great relevance and unchanging realities of the book of Ruth by examining its overarching themes: the sovereignty of God, the sexual nature of humanity, and the gospel of God's mercy for the undeserving.

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Book SynopsisThe Old Testament: but more mad, more merry, more... Milligan!And God said, Let there be light; and there was light, but Eastern Electricity Board said He would have to wait until Thursday to be connected.There have been many interpretations of the Old Testament over the centuries but never one quite like this. Spike Milligan has rewritten, in his own inimitable style, many of the best-known stories of the Old Testament, featuring characters like King my brain hurts Solomon, the great oaf of a giant Goliath and the lesser-known crossword clue, Hushai the Archite.Believers and non-believers alike will enjoy this hilarious re-working, where the jokes, jests and jibes tumble over each other from Chapter One, Verse One until kingdom come.Trade ReviewThat absolutely glorious way of looking at things differently. A great man -- Stephen FryA totally original comedy writer -- Michael PalinClose in stature to Lewis Carroll and Edward Lear in his command of the profound art of nonsense * Guardian *Manifestly a genius, a comic surrealist genius and had no equal -- Terry Wogan

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Book SynopsisUsing illustrations and clear examples, leading Old Testament scholar Peter Gentry helps readers understand how to read the prophetic texts as they were intended to be read.

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Book SynopsisThis volume presents a collection of studies by international experts on various aspects of ancient Israelâs society, economy, religion, language, culture, and history, synthesizing archaeological remains and integrating them with discussions of ancient Near Eastern and biblical texts.Driven by theoretically and methodologically informed discussions of the archaeology of the Iron Age Levant, the 47 chapters in The Ancient Israelite World provide foundational, accessible, and detailed studies in their respective topics. The volume considers the history of interpretation of ancient Israel, studies on various aspects of ancient Israelâs society and history, and avenues for present and future approaches to the ancient Israelite world. Accompanied by over 150 maps and figures, it allows the reader to gain an understanding of key issues that archaeologists, historians and biblical scholars have faced and are currently facing as they attempt to better understand ancient Israe

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Book SynopsisKörperbilder sind ein in der Forschung lange Zeit vernachlässigter, jedoch zentraler Bestandteil der Bildsprache der Psalmen. Welche Bedeutung einzelne Körperbilder haben, wie ihre Funktion im Gebetsprozess zu bestimmen ist und in welchem Verhältnis die Körperbilder zu anderen Bildkreisen stehen, untersucht Dörte Bester exemplarisch am Beispiel von Psalm 22. Nach einer textkritischen, kompositorischen und literarkritischen Analyse des 22. Psalms, die auch das "betende Ich" als Subjekt des Psalms reflektiert, wird eine Einzelauslegung vorgelegt, in der die zahlreichen körperbezogenen Aussagen des Psalms einen Schwerpunkt bilden. Weitere alttestamentliche Texte, vor allem aus dem Hiobbuch und dem Psalter, werden vergleichend herangezogen. Die Autorin weist nach, dass sich am Körper des betenden Ichs und in den verwendeten Körperbildern wie in einem Brennglas die Prozesse abbilden, die die Dynamik von Klage und Bitte, Lob und Dank bestimmen und das betende Ich von der Klage "mein Herz ist wie Wachs" (Ps 22,15) zu dem Wunsch führen "Leben möge euer Herz für immer" (Ps 22,27). Mit einem thematisch fokussierten Forschungsüberblick und für die Exegese fruchtbar gemachten Erkenntnissen der Sozialwissenschaften wird die exegetische Studie in die gegenwärtige Forschungsdiskussion eingeordnet. Dörte Bester leistet somit einen Beitrag zur Psalmenforschung wie zur alttestamentlichen Anthropologie.

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Book SynopsisWhat can the incredible life of Moses teach us about modern Christianity? When you face your personal Red Sea, will you be prepared like Moses was? Join pastor and bestselling author Charles Swindoll as he explores the life and legacy of Moses, a man of selfless dedication. In Great Lives: Moses, the fourth book in his bestselling Great Lives series, Swindoll teaches us that our decision to go forward in life instead of retreating will be bolstered by studying the astonishing story of Moses.Swindoll gives us the facts based squarely on the truth revealed in God''s Word. He also fills in the fine-line details of Moses'' life with emotion and feeling, because Moses, like all of us, was a human being with faults and frailties. And finally, Swindoll helps us apply the lessons of Moses'' life to our own daily dilemmas.From the Moses who tried to decline his assignment from God to the Moses who received the Ten Comma

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Book SynopsisIt sounded implausible. God promised an old, childless man that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. Yet Abraham chose to believe God, embarking on a transforming, lifelong journey of faith and obedience. As Jack Kuhatschek leads us through these nine studies on Abraham’s life, we will learn to be people who listen to, obey and trust God and the promises that he has made to us as well. With more than 130 titles, the LifeBuilder Bible Studies series delivers sound biblical content and raises thought-provoking questions. It provides a unique Bible study experience for individuals and groups.

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Book SynopsisThe Zondervan Exegetical Commentary series provides a careful analysis and interpretation of the biblical text, rooted in a study of the Hebrew text of the Old Testament and intended to track the flow of the argument in each book and passage.

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive, introductory textbook is unique in exploring the emergence of the Hebrew Bible in the broader context of world history. It particularly focuses on the influence of pre-Roman empires, empowering students with a richer understanding of Old Testament historiography. Provides a historical context for students learning about the development and changing interpretations of biblical texts Examines how these early stories were variously shaped by interaction with the Mesopotamian and Egyptian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, and Hellenistic empires Incorporates recent research on the formation of the Pentateuch Reveals how key biblical texts came to be interpreted by Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths Includes numerous student-friendly features, such as study questions, review sections, bibliographies, timelines, and illustrations and photos Trade Review"Carr's book is an excellent introduction to what mainstream (non-evangelical) scholars have come to believe about ancient Israel's literary history." (International Review of Biblical Studies, 2010)Table of ContentsList of Figures vi List of Maps viii List of Boxes ix Preface xii Acknowledgments xiv List of Abbreviations xvi Overview of the Historical Period xvii Timeline xviii Prologue: Orientation to Multiple Bibles and Multiple Translations 1 1 Studying the Bible in Its Ancient Context(s) 15 2 The Emergence of Ancient Israel and Its First Oral Traditions 33 3 The Emergence of the Monarchy and Royal and Zion Texts 53 4 Echoes of Past Empires in Biblical Wisdom, Love Poetry, Law, and Narrative 71 5 Narrative and Prophecy amidst the Rise and Fall of the Northern Kingdom 91 6 Micah, Isaiah, and the Southern Prophetic Encounter with Assyria 115 7 Torah and History in the Wake of the Assyrian Empire 131 8 Prophecy in the Transition from Assyrian to Babylonian Domination 153 9 Laments, History, and Prophecies after the Destruction of Jerusalem 165 10 The Pentateuch and the Exile 187 11 The Torah, the Psalms, and the Persian-Sponsored Rebuilding of Judah 207 12 Other Texts Formed in the Crucible of Post-Exilic Rebuilding 229 13 Hellenistic Empires and the Formation of the Hebrew Bible 245 Glossary 264 Index 273

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Book SynopsisThis accessibly written textbook has been a popular introduction to the Pentateuch for over twenty-five years. It identifies the major themes of the first five books of the Bible and offers an overview of their contents. Unlike some academic studies, it focuses on how the books from Genesis to Deuteronomy form a continuous story that provides an important foundation for understanding the whole Bible. This new edition has been substantially updated throughout to reflect the author's refined judgments and to address the future of pentateuchal studies.Table of ContentsContentsPart 1: The Main Themes of the Pentateuch1. An Overview of the Pentateuch2. God's Temple-City3. The Royal Lineage in Genesis4. The Blessing of the Nations5. Paradise Lost6. By Faith Abraham . . .7. Who Is the Lord?8. The Passover9. The Covenant at Sinai10. The Tabernacle11. Be Holy12. The Sacrificial System13. The Clean and the Unclean Foods14. Toward the Promised Land15. Murmurings16. Love and Loyalty17. Why Israel?18. The Pentateuch and the Biblical MetanarrativePart 2: Pentateuchal Criticism19. Introduction to Pentateuchal Criticism20. The Rise of the Documentary Hypothesis21. Going behind the Documents22. The Documentary Hypothesis under Threat23. Exodus 19:1-31:18--a Test Case24. The Future of Pentateuchal StudiesIndexes

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Book SynopsisThis 12-week study invites us to take an honest look at the agony and pain experienced by Job, which are immediately relevant in many ways to the suffering we all experience while on earth.

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Book SynopsisRabbinic tradition asserts that every letter of every word of the Torah is a word in itself. Author Stan Tenen demonstrates that each letter is also a hand gesture, and it is at this level that Hebrew forms a natural universal language. All people, including children before they speak and people without sight, make natural use of these gestures.   In The Alphabet That Changed the World, Tenen examines the Hebrew text of Genesis and its relationship to the alphabet. He shows how each letter is both concept and gesture, with the form of the gesture matching the function of the concept. There is thus an implicit relationship between the physical world of function and the conscious world of concept. Using over 200 color illustrations, Tenen demonstrates geometric metaphor as the best framework for understanding the deepest meaning of the text.   Such geometry models embryonic growth and self-organization and the core of many healing and meditative practices. Many subjects in contemporary science were derived from the methods and means available to the ancients; The Alphabet That Changed the World makes this authoritative recovery of the “science of consciousness” in Genesis accessible for the first time to the contemporary reading public.

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Book SynopsisNew York pastor Timothy Keller is known for his ability to connect a deep understanding of the Bible with contemporary thought and the practical issues we all face in our lives. My Rock; My Refuge - his first devotional, consisting of all new material - offers inspiration for every day of the year, based on the book of Psalms. Here Keller helps readers apply the principles he laid out in his book Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God. He walks them verse by verse through the entire Psalter, the one biblical book designed to teach us how to pray, how to spiritually handle every possible life situation, and how to actually know God.This title is published in the US as The Songs of Jesus.My Rock; My Refuge won CRT Devotional Book of the Year in 2016.

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Book SynopsisThe Bible According to Spike Milligan is an irreverent but very funny spoof of The Old Testament in which, in his own inimitable fashion, Spike Milligan gives his version of the best known biblical stories.In the Bible, according to Spike Milligan: In the beginning God created the Heaven and Earth and darkness was upon the face of the deep; this was due to a malfunction at Lots Road Power Station...And God said ''Let there be light''.''Desperately funny, vivid, vulgar'' Sunday Times ''Milligan is the Great God to all of us'' John Cleese ''The Godfather of Alternative Comedy'' Eddie Izzard ''That absolutely glorious way of looking at things differently. A great man'' Stephen Fry Spike Milligan was one of the greatest and most influential comedians of the twentieth century. Born in India in 1918, he served in the Royal Artillery during WWII in North Africa and Italy. At the end of the war, he forged a career as a jazz music

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