The Abingdon Introduction to the Bible: Understanding Jewish and Christian Scriptures

by Joel S. Kaminsky, Mark Reasoner, Joel N. Lohr

This comprehensive introduction to the various collections of biblical literature used by Jews, Catholics, and Protestants gives the beginner clear, concise, and engaging entries into each book while covering major controversies. The authors show how various biblical books have influenced and continue to have an impact upon western ethics, politics, and, of course, religion. Using artistic renderings and charts, this book is student-friendly but communicates a depth of learning in a responsible and balanced fashion.

A CHOICE Magazine Outstanding Academic Title of 2014.

Genres: Religion

380 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2014

About the author

Joel Kaminsky is Professor of Religion at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts.

Reviews

[Jc · Rating 2 out of 5]

I looked forward to reading this "Introduction." Having read a number of undergrad and graduate level introductory texts to both the Hebrew and christian scriptural canons, I was excited to see one that tried to give a broad overview of both major collections, along with much of what is sometimes
referred to as the "Apocrypha." Plus, this was co-written by a trio of qualified professors, one representing each of the mainline major groups with a stake in these ancient writings (Jewish, Catholic, Protestant). Well, the perspective was fine, but there was NO depth. It seems like the three authors were walking on tiptoes to avoid insulting each others' traditions. All three authors have to be aware of the overwhelming history of Biblical Criticism which goes back to the late 1700s (and has only become more overwhelming in the last 50 years). But, they were overly cautious about discussing any of what 300 years of academic literature has revealed about these books. Even for an introductory text, this was really academically weak - essentially a Sacred Works Cliff Notes. If you are just beginning to be curious about what else is in these books other than what is read religiously [pun intended] in synagogue or church, maybe (emphasis on "maybe") this might be a good place to start. But, there is better out there. The book doesn't even have an index, so even for a junior high or high school student it would not make a very useful reference work. Too bad - it has potential. Maybe the authors will get a little bolder on their next edition.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Designed as a textbook, it was dry and slow moving but contained valuable information and observations.