This comprehensive, introductory textbook is unique in exploring the emergence of the Hebrew Bible in the broader context of world history. It particularly focuses on the influence of pre-Roman empires, empowering students with a richer understanding of Old Testament historiography.

Provides a historical context for students learning about the development and changing interpretations of biblical texts
Examines how these early stories were variously shaped by interaction with the Mesopotamian and Egyptian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, and Hellenistic empires
Incorporates recent research on the formation of the Pentateuch
Reveals how key biblical texts came to be interpreted by Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths
Includes numerous student-friendly features, such as study questions, review sections, bibliographies, timelines, and illustrations and photos