Exodus
- Biblical Studies & Commentaries
- Publisher: Cascade Books (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2026
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Publisher's Description
Marvin A. Sweeney presents a new and innovative commentary on the book of Exodus. He presents an analysis of both the final, synchronic, literary form of Exodus, together with a discussion of the diachronic, historical composition of the book from the initial Ephraimitic composition to the later Priestly edition of the book. Sweeney argues that Exodus constitutes a classic example of an ancient Near Eastern creation narrative in which YHWH, the G-d of Israel, defeats Pharaoh, recognized as a god in Egypt. YHWH uses elements of creation, newly recognized in the Exodus narrative, to defeat Pharaoh, exercise sovereignty over creation, and deliver the nation of Israel from Egyptian oppression. He also treats major elements and themes in the reception history of Exodus in Judaism, Christianity, African American, Asian, and other cultures to demonstrate how the book of Exodus has inspired readers throughout the world.
Endorsements (4)
“With this noteworthy volume, Sweeney inaugurates the new Contextual Critical Commentary. Arguing that the narratives in Exodus derive from traditions of northern Israel, the author presents an innovative perspective: that the book is ‘a typical Ancient Near Eastern creation narrative.’ In addition, Sweeney cites numerous examples from the reception history of Exodus: in later biblical texts, Jewish and Christian traditions, and appropriations by artists. A rich resource for understanding the book of Exodus.”
“In his commentary on Exodus, Marvin Sweeney, one of the most learned and versatile biblical scholars of our time, once again demonstrates his impressive ability to address the scriptural text on multiple levels and through multiple periods, from the earliest pre-literary traditions through contemporary applications across the globe. Every reader, whether agreeing with his conclusions and speculations or not, will come away from this book informed and enriched. I certainly did.”
“The book of Exodus generates numerous questions on strange terms, exotic culture, and age-old legal documents: ancient Near Eastern backgrounds behind Moses’s upbringing, features of manna and quail, philosophy behind the Ten Commandments plus ‘lex talionis’ vis-à-vis Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, protection rights for female members or resident aliens, whereabouts of the ark, and so on. Professor Sweeney presents lucid explanations on these topics through expertise on ancient sources, in-depth literary-theological interpretations, and reception history of Second Temple texts, New Testament, and rabbinic hermeneutics. This commentary is richly informative, enlightening, and inspiring with ethical and theological lessons for today’s worshipping communities and law-abiding societies.”
“Sweeney defines Exodus as ‘Israel’s independence narrative’—the story of the people delivered by YHWH, the Israelite God, who triumphed over the Egyptian Pharoh. Studying the book both synchronically and diachronically, Sweeney integrates literary-history, historical, and comparative methodologies, and contributes important theological observations on Exodus, considering its early stratum to reflect Israelite-Ephraimitic religion. Scholars, students, and interested readers will each find this commentary compelling, realizing that reception history starts already within the Hebrew Bible itself.”
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