Inter-Varsity Press

Much of the Old Testament can seem strange to contemporary readers. However, as we begin to understand how ancient people viewed the world, the Old Testament becomes more clearly a book that stands within its ancient context, while also speaking against it.

John Walton offers a thoughtful introduction to ancient Near Eastern literature and the 'common cognitive environment' that it provides for understanding the world of ancient Israel. After surveying types of literature, he considers the perspectives they offer on beliefs about gods, religion, the cosmos, people and history. Throughout, helpful sidebars focus on Old Testament interpretation to illuminate the continuities and discontinuities between the Israelites and their neighbours.

Walton suggests that there are three important roles that comparative studies can play in biblical interpretation: critical analysis, defence of the biblical text, and exegesis. He focuses particularly on the third aspect and its importance for preventing misinterpretation through the imposition of modern world-views.

This volume provides an excellent introduction to the field of comparative studies and will be an important guide for all those who want to make use of extrabiblical resources to enrich their understanding of ancient Israel and its Scriptures.

Commendations

"In this well-researched book, containing most of the usual sources resulting from Assyriology and Egyptology, there is an originality and freshness of approach. These contributions are inspiring and thought-provoking and establish parameters and principles for engaging in comparative studies in a way which illuminates the text and its meaning." Debra Reid, Director of Open Learning, Spurgeon's College