An indispensable guide for exploring the literary, historical, and theological issues behind the Old Testament.

The purpose of studying the Old Testament is to understand God and his redemptive work more fully. However, this goal is complicated by the fact that it was transmitted through a very different language and culture from our own. A Survey of the Old Testament addresses background information, purpose, message, structure, and major themes of the Old Testament to help readers understand its message and relevance.

Chapters introducing each major section of the Old Testament are included, as are chapters dealing with issues of interpretation, hermeneutics, theology, geography, archaeology, history, formation of the Old Testament canon, and the Old Testament's relationship to the New Testament.

Features included for each book of the Old Testament:

Writing of the Book
Background
Outline of the Book
Purpose and Message
Structure and Organization
Major Themes
Questions for Further Study and Discussion
Further Reading
Complete with full-color maps, photos, timelines, and charts, this widely acclaimed textbook is a useful and readable tool for undergraduate students and other readers who wish to better understand the Old Testament and God's redemptive work