An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch

by Herbert M. Wolf

The Pentateuch—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy—are the vital first books in the Bible. Understanding their scope, meaning, and events is integral to understanding the whole of Scripture. In An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch , Old Testament expert Herbert Wolf offers layreaders and scholars alike a solid introduction to the Pentateuch, going deep where he needs to while still providing a graspable overview. Wolf first addresses the overarching themes that flow through the Pentateuch, giving special attention to Moses as its author. He then addresses each book specifically, covering topics such as purpose, context, and literary structure. He also explores critical issues specific to each book, like: Genesis —the meaning of "day" in Genesis 1:1–2:3; the extent of the flood; the Abrahamic covenant; the Joseph narrative Exodus— the significance of the plagues; Passover; the date of the Exodus; the Ten Commandments Leviticus— meaning of the sacrificial system; the roles of priests and Levites; the Day of Atonement Numbers— the twelve tribes; forty years in the wilderness; Balaam; preparation for the Promised Land Deuteronomy— the "Shema;" covenant curses; the promise of blessing 

Genres: Theology, Reference, Christianity

336 pages, Hardcover

First published October 9, 1991

Reviews

[Ernest Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gave a great overview of the first 5 books of the Bible. I felt that it definitely helped in strengthening my understanding of the Pentateuch. It did what an Pentateuch survey class would have done for the reader.

[Laura Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative. I love to learn about the Pentateuch and this book did not disappoint. Combined with the years of actually reading the Pentateuch and this gave me a whole new perspective on the History of it!

[David Leto · Rating 4 out of 5]

AHHH

This book is the last book I had to read while pursuing my credentials with the AG. I can honestly say I enjoyed the read and it was really well written. I will look for more from Mr. Wolf.

[Michael Larson · Rating 1 out of 5]

This guy corrected Scripture a lot. The Bible doesn't need to be corrected. God's Word is perfect.

[Steve Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great, popular level introduction to the Pentateuch written from an orthodox evangelical point of view. The author includes an extensive bibliography that includes works from critical scholars as well as evangelical ones. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to grasp the major themes in the Pentateuch.

[Gary Fields · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible introduction. The first in a four part series that covers the whole Old Testament. If the other three are as good as this one, then I think Geisler's Popular Old Testament Survey might be replaced as my favorite!

[Thomas Kinsfather · Rating 3 out of 5]

Extensive and technical, written on a collegiate level. Wolf strips out anything exciting in an effort to only bring only the driest theology. Not bad, for a text book.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good resorce for understanding the Pentateuch (which is not easy to understand)

[Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very approachable intro to the Pentateuch. I highly suggest this one.

[Andy Erickson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable