Theology & Religious Studies

This work is a compact commentary on the whole Bible written by Roman Catholic scholars according to the principles of modern biblical criticism.

Full texts and critical notes of the New International Version and the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible in parallel columns. Consists of 12 volumes and an index.

Commentary gathers the work of many outstanding women scholars, who introduce each book of the Bible with an extended discussion of general critical issues of the book and a narrative summary of its content. They follow with a commentary on those sections of the book that have particular relevance to women and enable readers to understand the significance of the presence or absence of women. Specifically, they focus on portions of scripture that deal with female characters, symbols, life situations such as marriage and family, the legal status of women, and religious principles that affect relationships of women and men.

Includes essays, interpretation, cultural contexts and tables.

Since its publication in 1997, Raymond Brown's Introduction to the New Testament has been widely embraced by modern readers seeking to understand the Christian Bible. Abridged by Marion Soards, who worked with Brown on the original text, this new, concise version maintains the essence and centrist interpretation of the original without tampering with Brown's perspective, insights, or conclusions. The biblical writings themselves remain the focus, but there are also chapters dealing with the nature, origin, and interpretation of the New Testament texts, as well as chapters concerning the political, social, religious, and philosophical world of antiquity. Furthermore, augmenting Brown's commentary on the New Testament itself are topics such as the Gospels' relationship to one another; the form and function of ancient letters; Paul's thought and life, along with his motivation, legacy, and theology; a reflection on the historical Jesus; and a survey of relevant Jewish and Christian writings.

The New Testament is considered a sacred book for believing Christians. Why is that so? What is there about the New Testament that has made it a revered and normative text for Christians for two thousand years? This book introduces the reader in a clear and accessible manner to the contents, history and purpose of the various components of the New Testament.

Table Of Contents: The Hebrew Bible, the Old Testament, and historical criticism -- Why Jews are not interested in biblical theology -- The eighth principle of Judaism and the literary simultaneity of scripture -- Theological consensus or historicist evasion? Jews and Christians in biblical studies -- Historical criticism and the fate of the Enlightenment Project -- Exodus and liberation.