Introduction to the Old Testament

This volume introduces ancient Israel's Scriptures, or the Hebrew Bible, commonly called the Old Testament. It also traces the legacy of monotheism first found in the pages of the Old Testament. Where pertinent to the message of the Old Testament, the book explores issues of history, comparative religions, and sociology, while striking a balance among these topics by focusing primarily on literary features of the text. In addition, frequent sidebar discussions introduce the reader to contemporary scholarship, especially the results of historical-critical research and archaeology. Along the way, the book explores how the Old Testament conceptualized and gave rise to monotheism, one of the most significant developments in history, giving this study a currency for twenty-first-century readers. 'Arnold has provided an introduction to the Old Testament for the twenty-first century unlike any other to date. Recognizing the influence of this collection on the three great monotheistic faiths of today, Arnold explores the significance of monotheism throughout Israel's Scriptures while also providing a thorough, balanced, and informed introduction to the texts themselves. Highly recommended!' W. Dennis Tucker, Jr, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University 'This is one of the best resources I've seen in a long time. The clarity of writing makes this a perfect primer for those who are new to the Bible. The breadth of topics makes it a wonderful review for those who are well versed in the Scriptures. I will be recommending this work to students and colleagues alike!' Roy L. Heller, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University 'In this volume, Bill T. Arnold adopts a literary approach to the Old Testament that also pays particular attention to monotheism: one of its signal contributions to religious history. The result is a truly interesting, highly engaging, and deeply relevant introduction. A further boon: Arnold's erudition, considered adjudication of contested matters, and pedagogical savvy are on display at every turn.' Brent A. Strawn, Emory University1. What is the Old Testament?; 2. Word of truth - word of God; 3. The Old Testament world; 4. The primary history; 5. Beginnings; 6. Ancestors; 7. Torah story; 8. Torah instruction; 9. Torah revisited; 10. Moses' religion; 11. Was there an 'ancient Israel'?; 12. Land; 13. Kings; 14. More kings; 15. History revisited; 16. More books; 17. Israel's wisdom; 18. Israel's hymnal; 19. Israel's prophets: the maturing period; 20. Israel's prophets: the crisis and beyond; 21. Israel's prophets: the restoration; 22. Israel's apocalyptic message; 23. The scrolls; 24. The Old Testament today.