Introduction to the Pentateuch
Overview
Whybray provides a straightforward introduction to the contents and themes of the first five books of the Bible. Designed as an entry-level textbook for colleges and seminaries, this volume makes sense of the current muddle in Pentateuchal studies and introduces students to the contributions of earlier scholars in the field. Whybray stresses the meaning of the Pentateuch in its canonical form while remaining sensitive to its literary merit, theological import, and compelling power.
In the Logos edition, this volume is enhanced by amazing functionality. Important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. Take the discussion with you using tablet and mobile apps. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
If you like this resource be sure to check out Eerdmans Old Testament Studies Collection (16 vols.).
Top Highlights
“First, the work may be the result of the combination of two or more older complete written works (the ‘documentary’ method). Second, it may be the result of the combination of a number of isolated shorter units either written or oral (the ‘fragment’ method). Third, it may have come about by the gradual expansion or supplementation of an original single work by additional material with the intention of modifying its character or extending its scope (the ‘supplement’ method).” (Page 14)
“The Fragment Hypothesis (dealing now not only with Genesis but with the whole Pentateuch) was espoused by another Catholic priest, Alexander Geddes (1792 and 1800), and by Johann Severin Vater (1802–1805).” (Page 14)
“It is important to pay attention to the genealogical tables in these chapters (4:17–22; 5:1–32; 10:1–32; 11:10–29).” (Page 3)
“Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers belong together: there are no natural divisions between them” (Page 63)
“Astruc distinguished two documents which differ in the ways in which they refer to God: one calls him by the name Jehovah (‘the Lord’ in most English versions), the other by the word Elohim (‘God’).” (Page 13)
- Title: Introduction to the Pentateuch
- Author: R. N. Whybray
- Publisher: Eerdmans
- Print Publication Date: 1995
- Logos Release Date: 2014
- Pages: 154
- Era: era:Contemporary
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subject: Bible. O.T. Pentateuch › Introductions
- ISBNs: 9780802808370, 0802808379
- Resource ID: LLS:NTRDCTNPNTTCH
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2022-09-30T01:58:04Z
Reviews
1 rating
Raymond
8/31/2016
I wouldn't consider this a book for beginners or those who are new to what I consider "deep bible study". The author presents a lot of theories from other sources. Most of the theories seem like they are trying to disprove the scripture found in the first 5 books. NOW, I think a more advanced scholar could use this book to practice apologetics. Some of the theories suggest that, the Pentateuch was written postexilic, that it was folklore, that the Israelites were few in number during the exodus and a host of other contradictions. I truly believe, with a good conscience that I have presented this review honestly and without contempt. I seek the truth in my studies and feel as though I did not find it, in this book.