The Original Story: God, Israel, and the World (Paperback)

~ Mr. John Barton (Author), Mrs. Julia Bowden (Contributor) "MANY READERS OF THIS book will have encountered the Old Testament as the first, and by far the longer, part of a Christian Bible that..." (more)
Key Phrases: brew consonants, mutual agreement between two parties, key ancestors, Near East, New Testament, Ten Commandments (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Ideal for beginning students and readers of all faiths or none, "The Original Story" is a comprehensive and lively guide to the Hebrew Bible. This richly illustrated volume provides a complete introduction to Old Testament history, archaeology, geography, and textual interpretation — all at an accessible level. The core of the book explores central biblical themes, including the nature of God, creation, human suffering, ethics, and the meaning of God’s covenant with Israel. The authors also consider Old Testament institutions such as law, prophecy, and worship.

Informative and easily navigable, "The Original Story" incorporates sidebars and fact boxes throughout the text as well as thought-provoking questions for discussion. All features considered, this volume is one of the best guidebooks to the Hebrew Bible now available.

About the Author

John Barton is Oriel and Laing Professor of the Interpretation of Holy Scripture at the University of Oxford and Canon Theologian of Winchester Cathedral.

Julia Bowden is a religious studies teacher and deputy head of curriculum at Guildford High School, England.

Product Details

• Paperback: 334 pages
• Publisher: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. (August 1, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802829007
• ISBN-13: 978-0802829009
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 6.9 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,109,916 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An open treatment of the Old Testament, April 13, 2006

By	Stephen Johnston (Australia) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Every now and again a book comes along which opens the doors of understanding to very complex subjects - and this one is an exemplar of that. The open approach and format, free from ideology, brings the complex and confusing opus of the OT to life. Taking a non-partisan but not secular or irreligious approach - this philosophical and scholarly work reflects the modern mind of young and mature adults with a 21st century outlook on ancient wisdom and religious literature. It's the only book I have read on this subject which properly puts in perspective the cultural, historical and religious perspectives of an ancient middle eastern people who came to be known as the Israelites. It's an "Idiots Guide" or "OT for Dummies" book raised to the professional level. Fabulous piece of work.