Handbook on the Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

Rating:
Summary: Fun, imformative, and erudite...
Review: Hamilton's synopsis of the Penteteuch is great for the biblical scholar at heart. Laypersons will also enjoy this book, as it flows quite well and keeps the reader intrigued. Hamilton's analysis of the hexameron (the work of the six creative periods) is especially fascinating, as he pulls parallels from mythological cosmogony to demonstrate that the biblical account of the hexameron is unique in many respects, but that the underlying motif is not new to other cultures outside of the Bible. Also, this book doesn't carry an ostentatious Evangelical flavor to it; it is very objective and can be enjoyed by those from all faiths.

The only real complaint I would have about the book is its format. Hamilton's approach is thematic. This reader prefers verse-by-verse commentary, so the commentary suffers a little bit, in that Hamilton skipped over some of the nuances in the penteteuch which contribute to its overall account. However, I recommend the book for all those interested in a deeper look at the first 5 books of the Bible.