Product Description

The Pentateuch—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy—are the vital first books in the Bible. Understanding their scope, meaning, and events is integral to understanding the whole of Scripture.

In An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch, Old Testament expert Herbert Wolf offers layreaders and scholars alike a solid introduction to the Pentateuch, going deep where he needs to while still providing a graspable overview.

Wolf first addresses the overarching themes that flow through the Pentateuch, giving special attention to Moses as its author. He then addresses each book specifically, covering topics such as purpose, context, and literary structure. He also explores critical issues specific to each book, like:

Genesis—the meaning of "day" in Genesis 1:1–2:3; the extent of the flood; the Abrahamic covenant; the Joseph narrative

Exodus—the significance of the plagues; Passover; the date of the Exodus; the Ten Commandments

Leviticus—meaning of the sacrificial system; the roles of priests and Levites; the Day of Atonement

Numbers—the twelve tribes; forty years in the wilderness; Balaam; preparation for the Promised Land

Deuteronomy—the "Shema;" covenant curses; the promise of blessing 

Articles

• What Is the Literary Structure of Genesis? | Bible to Life
• Did God Flood the Whole Earth as Genesis Says? | Bible to Life
• What Is the Purpose of the Book of Genesis? | Bible to Life

About the Author

HERBERT M. WOLF (Wheaton College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Brandeis University) was a well loved and respected professor of Old Testament at Wheaton Graduate School in Wheaton, Illinois. A translator for the Old Testament section of the New International Version, Dr. Wolf is the author of a number of books including Haggai and Malachi, in the Everyman's Bible Commentary Series, An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch, and Interpreting Isaiah as well as numerous journal, magazine, and encyclopedia articles.