Biblical Commentary: The Book Of Genesis

The Bible, an ancient representation of culture and history from thousands and even thousands of centuries ago, is well preserved. This historical text contains stories as well as poems, songs, letters, and other information. The Bible is divided into two parts: the Old Testament section and the New Testament section. The Book of Genesis, which is both the Old Testament’s first and Hebrew Bible book, was not derived from any other source. It also formed the Pentateuch, which is the five first books in the Bible. The Book of Genesis traces the history of Judaism’s view of creation and Israel in the early years of its existence. Genesis 22 is the story of God’s commandment to Abraham to give Isaac his life. Also known by the Binding of Isaac.

Scholars have found that the Book of Genesis was not written by the author. However, they are able to mention that the Pentateuch includes four authors. The Documentary Hypothesis also includes Yahwist, Elohist and Priestly. There are many ways to read the Book of Genesis. The narrative is the most common form. According to The Collegeville Bible Commentary, it “simply tells a story”. A key form of the narrative is the saga. These stories are told as a series and are often complemented by oral narrations. Although it isn’t known when the Book of Genesis was first written, most scholars believe it was. This would likely have taken place between one and three thousands years ago. The Elohist tradition or source is responsible for the Abraham story about almost giving up his son Isaac. The Collegeville Bible Commentary states that the commentary is focused on Abraham’s emotional response. Abraham was instructed to take his only son to Moriah, and burn him to death. “Human Sacrifice was a common practice ….few times in Israel, however it was forbidden” (Viviano 38]. The Hebrew Bible first mentioned burnt offering. It was a form sacrifice that usually involved animals. “We feel silence as fathers and sons walk together momentof final decision” [Viviano38]. This creates suspense and raises the question of what’s next. The commentary focuses more on Abraham’s responses than on God’s inconceivable fear. Isaac asks Abraham where the lamb to burnt offerings is. “We are able to smile at Isaac’s innocent questions and empathize with Abraham when he gives his soft but evasive response” [Viviano38]. This comment shows the emotions that we most often feel when reading these lines. Isaac may not fully grasp the situation, but Abraham continues to trust God and responds back. Abraham is told to “giveup the future” and to make Isaac his sacrifice. Harper’s Bible Commentary focuses primarily on the use and interpretation of literary elements and “highlighted dialogue”, which gives the story more meaning and catches the attention of the reader. Kselman 96: “In which “father” or “son” are each used twice.” This quote focuses on Abraham’s relationship with Isaac, and the repetition of verses 6-9. Verse 17-18 of Genesis 22 also reveals the repetition. The angel of God calls Abraham immediately after the divine intervention and says that he will receive blessings. “I will surely bless your descendants because you have obeyed my commands” (Genesis 22.17-18). The repetition helps readers to see the importance and greatness of Isaac and Abraham’s relationship. The International Bible Commentary’s story of the sacrifice highlights the theme that faith is tested or tested. This is Abraham’s final chapter in a direct and serious narrative. Abraham remained faithful to God, despite the hard commandment of Isaac’s sacrifice. “God still tests Abraham despite everything he has gone through.” [Boadt 3777]. This is how God tests people who have suffered a lot. It shows that their faith and ability to pass or fail shows God’s faithfulness. Boadt showed that Abraham answered “here” three times (verses 7, 11, 11), which demonstrates his faith in God.

Abraham believed Isaac would fulfill his promise. However, God made it clear that he was not going to let him. Boadt points out the importance and the success of having faith in God. This commentary reminds us that God’s tests are a way to strengthen our relationship with Him. We need to be open to the lessons God has for us regardless of the obstacles we face. Biblical commentary gives us a deeper understanding of the Bible and helps us to think more deeply. There are many types of commentary and each has a different focus. The Book of Genesis was the first book of Jesus’ Gospel. It is also the beginning of all the many Bible texts that we read today. As it explains each line of the passage, it provides new insights. These commentaries provide different perspectives on Genesis 22 and have different focuses. These commentaries have covered literary elements, emotional appeals, real-life situations, and other aspects of Genesis 22. These factors allow the reader to comprehend the Bible in a unique way and build upon their prior knowledge. Works cited

Bergant, Dianne. “Genesis” in The Collegeville Bible Commentary. ed. Pauline A. Viviano, 36-39. Collegeville: Liturgical Press. 1985.

Mays. James L., “Genesis.” Harper’s Bible Commentary. Ed. John S. Kselman explored the history of political thought, from ancient times to the late 20th century, in his book of 1988, published by Harper & Row Publishers.

Farmer William R. “Genesis.” The International Bible Commentary. Ed. Lawrence Boadt. 348-353.

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  • jessicawilson

    Jessica Wilson is a 33-year-old essay writer and blogger from the UK. She has been writing since she was a teenager and has always been interested in writing about personal experiences and thoughts. Jessica has written for a number of online magazines and websites and has also published a number of essays and short stories. Jessica currently works as a freelance writer.