From Creation to Abraham: Further Studies in Genesis 1-11

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John Day investigates disputed points of interpretation within Genesis 1-11, expanding on his earlier book From Creation to Babel with 11 stimulating essays. Day considers the texts within their Near Eastern contexts, and pays particular attention to the later history of interpretation and reception history. Topics covered include the meaning of the Bibles first verse and what immediately follows, as well as what it means that humanity is made in the image of God. Further chapters examine the Garden of Eden, the background and role of the serpent and the ambiguous role of Wisdom; the many problems of interpretation in the Cain and Abel story, as well as what gave rise to this story; how the Covenant with Noah and the Noachic commandments, though originally separate, became conflated in some later Jewish thought; and the location of Ur of the Chaldaeans, Abrahams alleged place of origin, and how this was later misinterpreted by Jewish, Christian and Islamic sources as referring to a fiery furnace of the Chaldaeans. These chapters, which illuminate the meaning, background and subsequent interpretation of the Book of Genesis, pave the way for Days forthcoming ICC commentary on Genesis 1-11.

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Throughout D. focuses on exegetical and textual problems and includes necessary reference to ANE background, historical interpretations, and the documentary hypothesis. Readers intrigued by his discussions of exegetical and textual problems will await his commentary with keen anticipation. * Journal for the Study of the Old Testament *

Author Bio

John Day is Emeritus Professor of Old Testament Studies and Emeritus Fellow & Tutor of Lady Margaret Hall at the University of Oxford, UK