Now that this volume completes the set on Genesis, we can evaluate where this volume stands. Its old iteration in the NAC was already a top pick, but this revision only raises its value. The other two that rivaled it most were always thought to be Wenham (WBC) and Hamilton (NICOT), but it appears they will not be revised by the original authors. Wenham no doubt was theologically brilliant, but his capitulation to some critical theories was maddening. Hamilton laid out all kinds of amazing details, but perhaps the larger picture was not always in view. In contrast, Mathews has no deficiencies. The theology is good and the exegetical work outstanding, all while adding conservative outlooks and fantastic scriptural connections. I guess what I’m trying to say is that Mathews is now all alone at the top.

Since the arrival of Abraham is such a shift in Genesis, he has an Introduction for this volume as well. He discusses the setting for the Patriarchs and does a fine job in covering theology, themes, and motifs. This Introduction runs 66 pages. The coverage of the motif on Sibling Rivalry and the one on Deception were the most captivating. If that weren’t good enough, notice at the end of the book that there is one fantastic excursus after another. Perhaps Jacob was the star of that section, but all were theological astute.

Strangely, I had a similar experience to that which I had a few years back when the earlier volume came out. I was wanting to study some Genesis passages, particularly some on Joseph, and I found the commentary so well done. Again, the parallels to other parts of Genesis in the Bible at large were fascinating. There were so many things that came up that I simply hadn’t thought of before.

This is a great commentary that I highly recommend. Perhaps the best recommendation I can give it is that I cannot imagine ever doing any major Genesis study I the future without consulting this grand volume.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.