The Books of Ezra and Nehemiah

Hannah K. Harrington is professor of Old Testament at Patten University, Oakland, California. Along with her numerous articles on the Bible, Second Temple Judaism, and Christianity, Harrington's other books include Holiness: Rabbinic Judaism and the Graeco-Roman World and The Purity and Sanctuary of the Body in Second Temple Judaism.

Interpretation "Harrington's commentary is detailed, thorough, and on most points consistent with the mainstream of contemporary biblical scholarship regarding Ezra-Nehemiah." Religious Studies Review "Harrington's meticulous care in handling primary sources and particular mastery of Second Temple Judaism shine in this new volume." "Dr. Harrington skillfully engages the reader in understanding the text, setting, and possible dates of the events narrated in the Ezra and Nehemiah memoirs, as well as their relationship to Chronicles. In laying the foundation for her readers, Harrington constructs a clear path for navigating the narratives. Her astute exegesis and social science approach offer insights into social drama, group identity, and social boundaries reflected in Ezra-Nehemiah. This is a timely must-read for scholars, practitioners, or those seeking to explore community crisis and renewal issues and the far-reaching consequences of Ezra-Nehemiah on modern concepts of Jerusalem's status, purity, marriage, and societal reconstruction." -- Mignon R. Jacobs Virginia Union University "Hannah Harrington makes a significant contribution to the study of the books of Ezra and Nehemiah while offering pastors, lay readers, and academics alike an accessible commentary. Informed by extensive study, Harrington's volume interacts with a wide range of scholarship and takes seriously the importance of the ancient historical context of Ezra and Nehemiah for interpretation. Harrington deftly handles controversial critical questions and presents an erudite, faithful reading of these important biblical books with an eye to their theological message and implications for Christians today." -- Paul S. Evans McMaster Divinity College