The Modern Encyclopedia of Old Testament Exegesis: The Book of Genesis

The Book of Genesis recounts the story of humanity from the moment God—Exalted be He—brought all things into existence from nothing, the day He said, "Be," and it was. It tells of our first parents, Adam and Eve; of the sweetness of communion with God; and of the anguish of the disobedience that devastated the entire world—from their own small family down to the present day. In this book, we read about men and women and God’s journey with them, as well as the great patriarchs of the Old Testament—such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—and the details of their lives, with all their joys and sorrows.

No book of the Bible has faced as much criticism as Genesis; it has been subjected to fierce attacks. Critics often dismiss its narratives as borrowings from ancient Near Eastern myths or attribute the text to various ancient religious "sources." Yet, such opposition is hardly surprising; for if the foundation is shaken and crumbles, the entire structure collapses.

This academic exegetical series fills a significant void in the Arabic theological library, offering the reader serious, scholarly studies of the Word of God. It also presents a new translation of the sacred text, prepared by specialized scholars. The series also explains the cultural, historical, and theological background of each book, offering a sound exposition and interpretation while connecting the Holy Scripture to contemporary life. The goal of the scholars contributing to this valuable series is to make the Word of God understandable and meaningful to the lives of God’s people—here and now—just as it was in the past.