Review of ZIBBCOT vol. 2

For a Newbie to Comparative Studies, Zondervan's new commentary series is a wonderful introduction. Edited by John Walton and bringing together an international team of 30 specialists, the new Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary Old Testament (ZIBBCOT) is a welcome addition to any library. As a current MDIv student, I have often been reminded the importance of studying the context of a given passage or book. However (and I think I can speak for most of my classmates), we were left wondering how one really goes about studying the historical context. Exegetical and grammatical analysis, there is a plethora of books and commentaries to turn to. Even literary context there have been several series of commentaries and even study bibles to look at. However, when it comes to the historical context, most students are amiss to what resources are available that they can delve more deeply in. An archaeology text? Pick up some ANE language? Nothing seems very accessible for the student of the bible who desires a better grasp of the OT passages at hand. For the most part, students must rely upon their professor’s uncommon references to comparative studies. For the non-seminary Christian, it becomes even more difficult to know where to turn to.

Volume 2 (covering Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1-2 Samuel) that I received (thanks to the publisher!) begins with an introductory essay on comparative studies. In it, John Walton describes the various erroneous ways comparative studies have been regarded. A third approach, however, is to see that there is “nothing inherently damaging to orthodox theology and beliefs about the Bible if its authors were interacting at various levels with the literature current in the culture” (viii). I have been excited, therefore, to read through this incredible volume and for me, an introduction to how comparative studies can be used to enhance exegetical work of the OT text. Further, I imagine it will do the Church a great service in helping teachers and pastors appropriate legitimate applications within the bounds of the original context. Each page has full color photos of geography, archaeological finds, and maps. This will be helpful, in particular, for the visual learner. At relevant points, the volume also provides detailed charts bringing in ANE situations contemporary to the given OT text. I can tell that this volume will be a treasure in my library, and will soak up much of my time as I enjoy dwelling in the OT text and its context!