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Presents a study of the Old Testament by interweaving historical, archeological, literary, and religious perspectives. The book traces the story of the people of Israel from the Exodus in the time of Moses through the dawn of the Common Era. It considers the importance of literary criticism and other methods for understanding the literature of ancient Israel; treats the latest archaeological discoveries that illuminate the Old Testament period.

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Best resource for adult Bible scholars

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"Understanding the Old Testament" provides historical settings and sociological background that help understand and enjoy the significance of the ancient people's continuing struggle over thousands of years to become a Covenant People in a repeatedly renewed relationship with God. The charts and photos also make the story clear and enjoyable. I heartily recommend this book for lay people who want to understand their Bible better. It's an excellent reference book for adult Bible study classes. No previous study of the Old Testament is necessary. This material is clear and basic for beginners, well organized, beautifully written with enough depth for serious Bible students.

Understanding (the editions of) the Old Testament!

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Throughout his long life of service to church and academy, Bernhard Anderson updated his textbook, "Understanding the Old Testament," for both a changing readership and a changing world of Biblical interpretation. One hopes that, with his passing on in late 2007, his work will continue through the efforts of his co-authors. A word on the somewhat confusingly titled recent editions of this work follows. The newest, 5th edition, was published in 2006, with co-authors Steven Bishop and Judith Newman (ISBN 01392380X). The original 4th edition, authored by Bernhard Anderson alone, was the blue hardcover edition of 1986 (ISBN 0139359257). This was followed by an "Abridged 4th edition" published in paperback in 1997, assisted by Katheryn Pfisterer Darr (ISBN 0139483993). Searching by using the ISBN numbers for the respective versions noted may help in getting the edition you want. Anderson's brief, introductory study guide, "The Unfolding Drama of the Bible," has also been updated, as has his introduction to the Psalms, "Out of the Depths." His understanding of the covenantal theology of the Hebrew Scriptures as it may be extended to Christian theology is covered in-depth his "Contours of Old Testament Theology."

Understanding The Old Testament, A critical review	Customer Rating:
Bernard Anderson opens up this magical land to us, with an experts eye and a critical academic mind. He delves into the tribal conflicts and conquests knowledgeably and with a sure hand and mind. Undoubtedly, one of the best OT texts ! The Right Rev'd Richard G. Melli, CSP, Th.D. Dean of Academics Chapel of the Holy Spirit School of Theology

Sent the Wrong Book Twice

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I ordered a new Hardcover copy of the 4th Edition of Understanding the Old Testament, by Bernard W. Anderson. Instead, I was shipped a new Softcover copy of the 4th Edition of Understanding the Old Testament. I communicated with customer service by phone & e-mail, and requested a Hardcover replacement. I shipped back the Softcover book. The second copy (replacement)of the 4th Edition of Understanding the Old Testament was sent to me, and despite requesting, again, a Hardcover copy; this copy, too, was Softcover. I called & e-mailed customer service again, and this time requested a "return", having received the wrong book, twice. I shipped the second book back, & received confirmation that my refund for the book (plus original shipping)had been ok'd. I can't really do a review of the book I ordered because I neveer got it. Respectfully, John E. Rolfe

Understanding the Old Testament Abridged 4th edition	Customer Rating:
I'm enjoying the read. It is slow because of the references to Bible passages, so have your Bible handy unless you have it memorized. I would recommend this book for anyone who wishes to get the real connection between the Old and New Testaments.