The Bible: A Historical and Literary Introduction

I was afraid this introduction to the Bible would be dry but was surprised how well written it was. The historical, as opposed to theological, perspective is fascinating and very helpful.

Brilliant. The best in scholarship for the NT, and now the OT.

This is designed as a textbook for a 1 semester freshman-level course on the Bible. For that reason, it's by no means exhaustive or overly opinionated. Instead, it just does a great job of summarising the books of the Bible (their content, history and interpretations), as well as introducing some of the modern scholarly thoughts, debates and controversies regarding them. As a textbook, it also asks the reader many thought provoking questions throughout that help point to further areas of study. The book is written through the lens of the critical-historian, not through the lens of any particular Bible-based faith. Ehrman has always ad a knack at communicating, what can be in lesser hands, rather dull material in an engaging and to-the-point way. Highly recommended for anyone who is new to Biblical studies.

Great book to learn about the Bible. This book is designed to teach class with. Great insight and clarity of how the Bible should be read.

I am a big fan of Dr. Ehrman and have read 5 or 6 books written by him. His knowledge of the New Testament and early Christian religion is without par. When the "Bible" was published I was surprised since his area of expertise was the works written in Greek, the New Testament. I have read many books and reviews of the Bible , and by far the "Bible " is the best. Dr Ehrman's knowledge of the Old Testament is incredible, the details , references , and historical background are spectacular ! The knowledge this man has about the Bible is vast and illuminating . One of the great scholars of our time!

Holes misaligned, mispunched, missing. Got half a great purchase. One is defective but I can't exchange because they are out of stock. I would accept a credit for a defective product.

Ehrman has put together the perfect historical introduction to the Bible for the serious beginner who graves more than what is offered at the typical church study group. You don't need a college degree to understand Ehrman's presentation. It is clear, concise and unbiased, written by a renown Bible historian. You will come away from this eye opening read with a refreshing appreciation and new understanding of the Bible that you did not have before.For the more advanced Bible buff, I recommend reading this in tandem with "Understanding The Bible" by Stephen Harris.

This book is very readable and well planned for learning about and understanding the Bible.Most books about the Bible do not cover the truth of how it was written and by whom. I havepurchased other books by Professor Bart Ehrman and I always found them very interestingand readable for a non scholar like myself.

The content of the textbook is perfect for a real beginner or intermediate on the Bible. This book fall short of a 5 star because it's paper is too thin and could easily be torn when not handled even with minimal care.

Excellent

Bart Ehrman is a very gifted writer - not many people could make an introduction to the Bible a page-turner. He's also a very gifted scholar - providing a masterly over-view of up to date historical research and literary analysis. The book itself is attractively presented and very well structured, with maps, illustrations, side-bars etc - a pleasure to pick up and read. It contains just the right amount of information and detail to make it a superb introduction, and an appetite whetter for more - high praise from this non-religious reviewer ! Thoroughly recommended !

Very interesting book. A documented survey of the various books in the Ancient and New Testament