The narratives, genealogies, laws, poetry, proverbs and prophecies of the Old Testament are deeply rooted in history. Archaeologists, historians, and social scientists have greatly advanced our knowledge of the ancient world of the Bible. This unique commentary joins The
IVP Bible Background Commentary New Testament in giving historical, social, and cultural background for each Old Testament passage. From Genesis through Malachi it gathers and condenses an abundance of specialized knowledge and makes it available to ordinary readers of the Old Testament.
How can we account for the "Book of the Law" suddenly being discovered during Josiah's renovation of the temple (2 Chronicles 34:14)? We know from Egypt and Mesopotamia that it was common to seal important documents, including theological documents, in the masonry or foundations of a palace or temple in order to inform a future king who might undertake restoration of the building.
What might the psalmist have had in mind when praising God for removing our transgressions "as far as the east is from the west" (Psalms 103:12)? In an Egyptian hymn to Amun-Re, the deity is praised for his judgment of the guilty. As a result of the God's discernment, the guilty are assigned to the east and the righteous to the west.
Written in a clear, non-technical language, this invaluable aid includes a glossary of historical terms, ancient peoples, texts, and inscriptions; maps and charts of important historical resources; expanded explanations of significant background issues; introductory essays on the background of each book.
Average Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars(3.5 out of 5 stars)
5 of 5 Reviews Showing:
2.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Timotheos Michas (Athens 11523,Greece), January 23, 2008
A good book for theologians but not too useful for lay people,I would recommend it to my pastor.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Dee Keith (Locust Grove, GA), January 02, 2008
Craig Keener, in this masterful commentary, has brought to the fingertips of every Christian, whether a new believer, a seminary student, or pastor, a work that will aid your understanding of the Old Testament and enliven your study of it. I heartily recommend it.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Steve (Nashua, NH), August 28, 2007
For a single volume this book is packed w/ helpful information that can be used for your own Bible study as well as helping the seasoned Pastor prepare a teaching or sermon on any book of the OT.
I also own the vol. that tackles the NT. Highly recommended!
0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Laurie Perry (Cold Spring KY), September 10, 2001
This book is not a Christian book. In fact, it is anti-Christian! It attempts to refute the infallibility of God's Word by indicating that God allowed Abraham to worship other God's with His approval and that there is "no archaeological evidence for the Flood"! I encourage CBD to remove it from their catalog and in the future to review products with an eye for materials that are supportive of Christianity, not opposed to it!
4.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Candalee Jones (Tallahassee, FL), October 23, 2000
Great reference book! Break down chapter and verse of the first five books of the OT. Basic theme in bold helps reader locate the appropriate verse quickly. Clearly explains the meaning of phrases and customs. Extra material such as trade routes thoroughly explained. Social, cultural and historical background information. Easy to use and valuable for bible study preparation. I enjoy reading it.
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