The JPS Torah Commentary: Exodus
This is the fourth volume in the acclaimed "Jewish Publication Society Torah Commentary" series. Volumes on the books of Genesis and Leviticus were published in 1989, and Numbers in 1990. Following the format of the earlier books, this new work presents the traditional masoretic Hebrew text and the new JPS English translation, along with a masterful commentary by eminent scholar Sarna. Drawing upon classical and modern sources, Sarna's exegesis and historical and philological interpretations are scholarly yet quite accessible to nonspecialist readers. Included are an introduction, six excurses on problematic subjects, a glossary, and notes. Sarna eschews any attempt to discuss the provenance of the Exodus text, although he does state that he considers Exodus a work of historiosophy (a document of faith) rather than a work of historiography. Like its predecessors, this beautifully formatted book will greatly help elucidate the text of a seminal book of the Hebrew Bible. Directed primarily to a Jewish audience (clergy, specialists, and general readers), it could also benefit non-Jewish clergy and specialists as well.- Robert A. Silver, Shaker Heights P.L., OhioCopyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.