The First Chapters uncovers the origins of the first paragraph or chapter divisions in copies of the Christian Scriptures. Its focal point is the magnificent, fourth-century Codex Vaticanus (Vat.gr. 1209; B 03), perhaps the single most significant ancient manuscript of the Bible, and the oldest material witness to what may be the earliest set of numbered chapter divisions of the Bible. The First Chapters tells the history of textual division, starting from when copies of Greek literary works used virtually no spaces, marks, or other graphic techniques to assist the reader. It explores the origins of other numbering systems, like the better-known Eusebian Canons, but its theme is the first set of numbered chapters in Codex Vaticanus, what nineteenth-century textual critic Samuel P. Tregelles labelled the Capitulatio Vaticana. It demonstrates that these numbers were not, as most have claimed, late additions to the codex but belonged integrally to its original production. The First Chapters then breaks new ground by showing that the Capitulatio Vaticana has real precursors in some much earlier manuscripts. It thus casts light on a long, continuous tradition of scribally-placed, visual guides to the reading and interpreting of Scriptural books. Finally, The First Chapters exposes abundant new evidence that this early system for marking the sense-divisions of Scripture has played a much greater role in the history of exegesis than has previously been imaginable.

The Book of Nehemiah offers a first-hand telling of how ancient Jerusalem's walls were rebuilt in the face of great odds after the Babylonian exile – an act that represented the renewal of the people's faith and the reforming of their conduct. In The Message of Nehemiah, Raymond Brown explores this powerful story and the striking relevance of this themes for Christians living today. Vividly drawing out Nehemiah's historical and social milieu, Brown demonstrates that Nehemiah is one of the most inventive and resilient personalities in the Old Testament. His doctrine of God, his passion for Scripture, his experience of prayer and his example in leadership all provide valuable lessons that can be applied to how we live our faith every day. A revised volume in the trusted the Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of Nehemiah offers a compelling exposition of the Biblical text, unpacking its meaning for both the original audience it was written for and for Christians in the twenty-first century. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for students and preachers who want to delve more deeply into the riches of Scripture and better understand how it can be applied to modern life. This beautifully redesigned edition has been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NIV Bible text. The Message of Nehemiah is perfect for anyone looking for accessible commentaries on Nehemiah that will help broaden their knowledge and understanding of the this fascinating book of the Old Testament.

Here’s a quick Bible reference, a fun trivia resource, even a baby names book—The Book of Bible Names, featuring more than 2,000 entries. For every Bible person named—2,026 names and nearly 3,400 individuals—you’ll find relevant information including brief biographies, relevant verse references, and name meanings. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the people of scripture, from Aaron to Zurishaddai.

This volume, a part of the Old Testament Library series, explores the books of Ezra and Nehemiah The Old Testament Library provides fresh and authoritative treatments of important aspects of Old Testament study through commentaries and general surveys. The contributors are scholars of international standing.

PART 1, delves deep into the Abrahamic Covenant and uses it, rather than the Messianic Covenant, to interpret the Old Testament. This singular change reveals an intriguing perspective with the hope of generating peace and love between Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. The viewpoint is a direct challenge the mainstream beliefs of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. With the discussion of Islam, the author's perspective of the Quran is used as an intrical part of the prophecy, rather than as an opposing viewpoint. The discussion is candid and in-depth. Specifically, related to the Jewish Palestinian Conflict as well as the War on Terror. PART 2, looks at the Bible through the eyes of the Levitical Covenant. Striking differences are revealed between God's covenant to Moses and His covenant with Aaron. At the same time, unexpected unions are discovered between the Levitical Covenant and the covenants of Cain, Canaan's, Esau's, and others. Biblical references are abundant for each conclusion.

"The Encyclopedia of Christianity is the first of a five-volume English translation of the third revised edition of Evangelisches Kirchenlexikon. Its German articles have been tailored to suit an English readership, and articles of special interest to English readers have been added. The encyclopedia describes Christianity through its 2000-year history within a global context, taking into account other religions and philosophies. A special feature is the statistical information dispersed throughout the articles on the continents and over 170 countries. Social and cultural coverage is given to such issues as racism, genocide, and armaments, while historical content shows the development of biblical and apostolic traditions. This comprehensive work, while scholarly, is intended for a wide audience and will set the standard for reference works on Christianity."--"Outstanding reference sources 2000", American Libraries, May 2000. Comp. by the Reference Sources Committee, RUSA, ALA.

Over the centuries, the prophetic book of Zechariah has suffered from accusations of obscurity and has frustrated readers seeking to unlock its treasures. This work by Mark Boda provides insightful commentary on Zechariah, with great sensitivity to its historical, literary, and theological dimensions. Including a fresh translation of Zechariah from the original Hebrew, Boda delivers deep and thorough reflection on a too-often-neglected book of the Old Testament.

The Hebrew Bible differs on which cultic items used in worship were appropriate for use within YHWHism. By analyzing passages mentioning "high places" (bamot), sacred trees (asherim), etc., this study finds many cultic practices were acceptable.