The Books of Ezra and Nehemiah (The New International Commentary on the Old Testament | NICOT)

by Charles Fensham

Publisher:

Eerdmans

, 1982

Overview

Providing clear exposition based on solid contemporary scholarship, this commentary by F. Charles Fensham examines the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two books of Scripture that are especially important for understanding the last century of Old Testament Jewish history and for marking the beginnings of Judaism.

A biblical scholar well known for his expertise in ancient Near Eastern studies, especially Ugaritic, Fensham places Ezra and Nehemiah against the ancient Near Eastern environment. In his introduction, Fensham discusses the original unity of the books as well as the problems of authorship. He then treats the historical and religious background of the books, taking special note of the development of a Jewish religious society in postexilic times. Text and language are examined next, followed by a thorough bibliography.

The commentary proper, based on Fensham’s own fresh translation of the biblical texts, is richly documented and displays cautious good judgment, willingness to consider different options, a sensible approach, and keen insight into the religious meaning of these key Hebrew texts.

With Logos, the NICOT will integrate into the Passage Guide. Whenever you enter your passage and click go, results from the NICOT will appear on the text you’re studying. This gives you instant access to exactly what you’re looking for—in far less time than it would take you to walk over to the bookshelf and begin flipping through a print volume, let alone find the information you need.

Key Features

• Verse-by-verse commentary
• In-depth discussion of textual and critical matters
• Introduction to the authorship, date, purpose, structure, and theology of Ezra and Nehemiah

Contents

Top Highlights

“The people must realize that in spite of their sins the Lord will be their strength, their protection during the coming year.” (Page 219)

“Another view is that this phrase refers to the destroying of Jerusalem in the time of Nebuchadnezzar. From that time onward the wall and the gates were in ruins. The one and only attempt to restore it in the early years of Artaxerxes was thwarted. Jerusalem was still a city without defenses. The temple of Jerusalem could be destroyed easily by the enemies, because no proper stand could be made against enemies without a defense wall. After a hundred and forty years Jerusalem and its inhabitants, the Jews, were still easy game for any enemy who wanted to attack them. The latter view seems to be the more acceptable.” (Page 152)

“The reading of the law and its explanation to the people had its effect. They became aware of their sins and wept. Instead of a joyous gathering, they were mourning. This reaction is not according to the character of this festival, which should be an occasion of joy. The reading had the wrong effect on them.” (Pages 218–219)

“This prayer has a simple structure. It starts with an invocation of God, proceeds to a confession of sins, then a request to the Lord to remember his people, and concludes with a request for success.” (Page 154)

“The proper name Nehemiah means ‘the Lord comforts.’” (Page 150)

Endorsements

This is a very useful commentary. The author’s scholarship provides a sound base. His bibliography is inclusive and up to date. He interacts with all important positions on major questions. His view is conservative and clearly reasoned. A commendable work.

—Bibliotheca Sacra

Provides Old Testament students with a most excellent tool for the analysis and exegesis of Ezra and Nehemiah. This volume has many strengths and practical suggestions for treating problem passages, and follows a good and logical outline of the combined texts. Ministers as well as scholars will find it useful.

—Hebrew Studies

The strengths of this volume are clear. Fensham uses his expertise in Semitic languages to address the many linguistic difficulties which appear in these two biblical books. In addition, his use of ancient Near Eastern history and archaeology is helpful. These elements, plus generous documentation, make this a substantial commentary.

—Biblical Theology Bulletin

Product Details

• Title: The New International Commentary on the Old Testament: The Books of Ezra and Nehemiah
• Author: F. Charles Fensham
• Series: New International Commentary on the Old Testament (NICOT)
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1983
• Pages: 301

About Charles Fensham

Associate Professor of Systematic Theology, Knox College.