Tremper III Longman - The Baker Compact Dictionary of Biblical Studies

The Baker Compact Dictionary of Biblical Studies is exactly thata nice, handy, quick reference to technical terms, literary concepts, key people, and important topics tied to biblical studies. These categories of discussion often float in the underbrush of interpretation. This dictionary makes those elements accessible to those who want to know about them. This is a great supplement and starting place for giving depth to the historical and interpretive backdrop to your study of the Bible.

Darrell L. Bock , Executive Director for Cultural Engagement, Howard G. Hendricks Center for Christian Leadership and Cultural Engagement; senior research professor of New Testament studies, Dallas Theological Seminary

The Baker Compact Dictionary of Biblical Studies is an ideal source for students of scripture. If one has questions about the impact of a famous scholar (such as Marcion), or the meaning of a technical term (redaction criticism), or the meaning of a strange word (Qoheleth), this dictionary provides quick and handy definitions and explanations. Here students will find clear, concise, and accurate explanations and definitions. Longman and Strauss are to be thanked for this practical resource, which will doubtless be often consulted.

Thomas R. Schreiner , James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Where does one go to find the meaning of such expressions as Heilsgeschichte , hendiadys, and Hermetic literature? Biblical studies literature requires a specialized dictionary. And this is precisely what Longman and Strauss have put together. This dictionary will prove to be of tremendous help to students, pastors, and teachers as they consult the rich resource materials available in biblical studies. Having ready access to this dictionary will enable you to read the literature with far greater understanding.

Clinton E. Arnold , dean and professor of New Testament, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University

This handy work by trustworthy scholars is encyclopedic in its range of topics, yet it offers a concise, one-volume treatment valuable for students and professors alike.

Craig S. Keener , F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies, Asbury Theological Seminary

As a student, entering the world of biblical studies, with its voluminous technical vocabulary, may seem like stepping onto the streets of a foreign country, with unintelligible signposts and incomprehensible conversations. What you need is a translator and teacher who can orient you to the language of the biblical-studies culture with short, crystal-clear explanations. Enter The Baker Compact Dictionary of Biblical Studies by Tremper Longman and Mark Strauss. With brief, lucid entries, they will have you speaking the language of this field in no time.

George H. Guthrie , Benjamin W. Perry Professor of Bible, Union University

Longman and Strauss, trusted and experienced biblical scholars, have produced yet another indispensable reference tool. This compact dictionary deftly guides readers through the maze of names, terms, and concepts regularly encountered in biblical and related studies. Explanations are brief, understandable, and carefully written. Without question, every serious student of the Bible needs to add this accessible and up-to-date resource to their library.

Michael J. Williams , Johanna K. and Martin J. Wyngaarden Senior Professor in Old Testament Studies, Calvin Theological Seminary

Every field of study has its own technical jargon that, to a novice, is daunting and unclear. Longman and Strauss, experts in Old and New Testament respectively, provide a very useful, brief, but surprisingly comprehensive introduction to the terminology, concepts, people, and places of biblical studies in readable language. The dictionary will greatly ease a newcomers entry into this important field. I wish it had been available when I started my own studies!

David W. Baker , professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages, Ashland Theological Seminary

It is so helpful now to have a compact dictionary that focuses not just on the Bible but also on biblical studies, produced by two of the foremost scholars in the two testaments. I can see my own students keeping this book within arms reach as they pursue their coursework. It provides a ready and reliable reference on the ancient literature to which biblical scholarship commonly refers, the major contributions for which commonly quoted names are known, the tools and terms that constitute the basic vocabulary of particular kinds of biblical criticism, sites important in Scripture or in the world of its authors, and a great deal more. This will prove a welcome aid to equip those who want to engage academic biblical literature meet the challenges of the learning curve inherent in reading, for example, a critical commentary or academic article.

David A. deSilva , Trustees Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek, Ashland Theological Seminary

It was a joy to read through this dictionary as a professor. I think this reference will prove to be a rare thing: a genuinely valuable resource for new students of theology. I can imagine them thumbing through it twenty times a day as they study(and even during lectures!). I might require it for some of my classes. You should give it a look.

George Schwab , professor of Old Testament, Erskine Theological Seminary

Why consult a Bible dictionary in a Google-driven age? Because websites are so erratic and uneven in their quality. Longman and Strauss are trusted Old Testament and New Testament guides. From technical terms to archeology, from figures of speech to critical methods, from Bible translations to theological topics, from key scholars to eras of history, this dictionary supplies succinct, accurate, and readable summaries of the most important items a serious reader of the Bible might want to understand. Highly recommended.

Craig L. Blomberg , Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Denver Seminary