The Book of Job

The New International Commentary on the Old Testament

by John E. Hartley

This recent volume in the NICOT series deals carefully with the difficult questions of text, language, and theology in the Book of Job. After an extensive introduction, Hartley provides thoroughly researched, detailed, verse-by-verse exegesis and exposition which relates each section to the message of Job.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Christian, Theology, Religion, Old Testament, Biblical Studies

605 pages, Hardcover

First published May 18, 1988

Reviews

[Steven Azzara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although Clines’ commentary was far more technical, and had more insight, this commentary by Hartley is very good. The layout is far superior than Clines’. I was expecting this commentary to be introductory but it wasn’t. Hartley offers a lot of insight. This commentary is easy to read because of the layout (citations appear after the chapter). So, if you want a great commentary on Job but also want to save money for other books, go with Hartley. But if money isn’t an option, then Clines’ three volume set on Job is recommended.

[Samcwright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn’t my favorite commentary on Job, but it’s a solid one. Hartley writes from an evangelical perspective as part of the NICOT series. Hartley’s commentary is solidly within the scholarly mainstream and he does of good job of including footnotes that point to the Hebrew in addition to synthesizing and building on the work of past commentators.

[Eric Yap · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best one-volume commentary on Job I've read so far. Extremely readable, organises most of the textual translation issues in the footnotes, and blends the exegetical, theological, and pastoral perspectives really well. Really appreciate that Hartley will conclude each section with a summary, so the readers will not get lost in the heated debate between Job and his friends, intensified with wisdom and poetic sayings that are primarily familiar to those in the ANE settings.

[Vicki Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Appreciate the layman sensitivity the author showed. I am not a calvinist and the author clearly is. However, I very much appreciate the authors willingness to present facts, the linguistics and the context while letting the reader explore and learn without his opinions or dogma. I took over 125 pages of notes and learned so much. Thank you

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

a super interesting, informative, and conservative interpretation

[Martin Manchego · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply amazing, the most complete commentary I have read. Difficult to read but worthy.

[Jeff Ragan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great look into both the book of Job and ancient Jewish literature as well.

[Vanjr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A conservative commentary on Job of moderate plus depth. Focuses on the Hebrew text, includes textual difficulties. I highly recommend this to anyone who has not studied the book of Job and desires to understand this fascinating ancient text.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good mix of Hebrew textual study and commentary on the verses themselves. Conservative on its interpretation.

[Bfleegs · Rating 2 out of 5]

An excellent commentary on the book of Job. Hartley interacts constantly with the original text and goes to great lengths in his attempts at textual criticism, although some of his conclusions seem to be a bit strained. He well points out and follows the major themes of the book, and his summaries following every section aid the reader's understanding of the book's development. Additionally, his wide understanding of ANE customs and literature are indispensable to the discussion.