The narratives, genealogies, laws, poetry, proverbs and prophecies of the Old Testament are deeply rooted in history. Archaeologists, historians and social scientists have greatly advanced our knowledge of the ancient world of the Bible. When we illuminate the stories of Abraham or David, the imagery of the Psalms or Proverbs, or the prophecies of Isaiah or Jeremiah with this backlight of culture and history, these texts spring to new life.

This highly acclaimed Old Testament commentary joins The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament in providing historical, social and cultural background for each passage of the Old Testament. From Genesis through Malachi, this single volume gathers and condenses an abundance of specialized knowledge--making it available and accessible to ordinary readers of the Old Testament. Included in this valuable resource you will find:

• A glossary of historical terms, ancient peoples, texts and inscriptions
• Maps and charts of important historical resources
• Expanded explanations of significant background issues
• Introductory essays on each book of the Old Testament

Additional Features & Benefits

• Provides historical, social and cultural background for every passage of the Old Testament
• Gathers, condenses and makes accessible an abundance of specialized knowledge
• Enriches your study, teaching and preaching from the Old Testament
• Features maps and charts of important historical resources
• Provides expanded explanations of significant background issues
• A companion volume to The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament