How to Read Genesis
Description
A New Updated Edition of a Beloved Favorite!
Within the realm of sacred texts, Genesis stands as a pillar-a foundational book that shapes the Torah, the Old Testament, and ultimately the entire Christian Bible. Through its rich tapestry of stories and images Genesis often leave readers pondering the deeper meanings hidden within its verses. In the latest installment of the bestselling How to Read Series, Tremper Longman III offers an enlightening path to grasping what Genesis is meant to communicate to both its original readers and contemporary audiences.
How to Read Genesis, 2nd Edition gives readers an invaluable guide that:
- Examines the various lenses through which Genesis can be viewed, enriching comprehension and appreciation of its narratives.
- Delves into the cultural backgrounds that influenced Genesis, providing a fuller picture of its significance and teachings.
- Uncovers the layers of history and authorship that contributed to the creation of Genesis.
- Explains the background of the literary forms and structural elements that make Genesis unique.
- Offers an understanding of how Genesis fits into the broader context of the Bible, connecting its themes and messages to the entire Christian narrative.
Building upon historical, cultural, and literary context, How to Read Genesis, 2nd Edition will not only enhance your knowledge, but will also foster a deeper connection with the text and its timeless wisdom.
"Longman has long been known for his ability to analyze disparate literary genres and historical elements of scripture while crafting a solid Christological perspective-and on this point, he does not disappoint. That is, he seeks to provide space for Genesis as literature, myth, history, and at last, ways to read Genesis as a Christian, a perspective that he identifies as "preposterous and distorting," and yet, not only prompted by Jesus himself (as in Luke 24) but absolutely needed in the context of current Christian teaching and preaching. ... This is a short, valuable, and timely look at a misunderstood book." - Library Journal Review, February 2025
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Person
Tremper Longman III (PhD, Yale University) is Distinguished Scholar and Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California. He is the author or coauthor of over thirty books, including How to Read the Psalms, How to Read Proverbs, Literary Approaches to Biblical Interpretation, and Old Testament Essentials.
Content
Acknowledgments to the First Edition Acknowledgments to the Second Edition Introduction Part 1: Reading Genesis with a Strategy 1. Understanding the Book of "Beginnings" Part 2: Reading Genesis as Literature 2. Who Wrote Genesis? 3. The Shape of the Book of Genesis Part 3: Reading Genesis in Its Own World 4. Myth or History? Genesis and the Enuma Elish 5. Noah and Utnapishtim: Whose Flood Story Should We Trust? 6. Abraham and Nuzi: Patriarchal Customs in Their Cultural Context Part 4: Reading Genesis as God's Story 7. The Primeval History: Genesis 1-11 8. The Patriarchal Narratives: Genesis 12-36 9. The Joseph Story: Genesis 37-50 Part 5: Reading Genesis as Christians 10. The Christological Difference Appendix 1: Commentaries on Genesis Appendix 2: The Compositional History of the Pentateuch Notes General Index Scripture Index
