The Cambridge Introduction to the Old Testament
2nd Edition
Published on 19. February 2026
Book
Hardback
444 pages
978-1-009-32855-5 (ISBN)
Description
This textbook offers students who have no prior background in biblical studies an understanding of the lasting contribution of Israel's scriptures. Bringing a literary approach to the topic, it strikes a balance between historical reconstructions, comparative religions, and theology. Among several distinctive features, It traces the legacy of monotheism first emerging in the pages of Israel's scriptures as an enduring contribution for twenty-first century readers. Monotheism gives the volume an immediate relevance because the so-called Abrahamic religions are rooted in this concept. Whether one is Jewish, Christian, Muslim, or secularist, students will gain a new understanding of the origins of monotheism as their common heritage. The Second Edition of this textbook includes expanded discussions within the text and in sidebars, notably on the history of biblical scholarship, modern methods of interpretation, and wisdom literature.
Reviews / Votes
'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, Duke University '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 UniversityMore details
Edition
2nd Revised edition
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Edition type
Revised edition
Product notice
sewn/stitched
Cloth over boards
Illustrations
Worked examples or Exercises
Dimensions
Height: 260 mm
Width: 208 mm
Thickness: 28 mm
Weight
1168 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-009-32855-5 (9781009328555)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
Bill T. Arnold
The Cambridge Introduction to the Old Testament
Book
approx. 02/2026
2nd Edition
Cambridge University Press
€68.50
Not yet published
Previous edition
Bill T. Arnold
Introduction to the Old Testament
Book
04/2014
Cambridge University Press
€198.30
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Person
Bill T. Arnold is the Paul S. Amos Professor of Old Testament Interpretation at Asbury Theological Seminary. He specializes in Pentateuchal studies and has written or edited eighteen books on many aspects of Old Testament interpretation, including Hebrew language and the history of Israelite religion. In 2010, Arnold was awarded the Founders Medallion by his alma mater, the Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion, Cincinnati.
Content
1. 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. The Religion of Moses; 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.