Library Home Page: Old Testament Research Guide: Background Information

Why Use Background Information?

Background information:

Shows how a topic fits into a broader subject or discipline
Helps you to know if there is enough or too much information on a topic
Provides access to the specific vocabulary which serves as keywords for searching
Often contains bibliographies which point to key resources and experts to consult

The titles listed in these boxes are reference books available in the Jessie C. Eury Library's Reference Room for your use. These books may not be checked out of the library.

Old Testament Dictionaries

The book listed below are available in the print reference collection and online.

Dictionary of the Old Testament: Historical Books by Bill T. Arnold (Editor); H. G. M. Williamson (Editor)
Call Number: R 222.03 A752
Publication Date: 2005-11-11
Online access available as well.
Dictionary of the Old Testament: Pentateuch by David W. Baker (Editor); T. Desmond Alexander (Editor)
Call Number: R 222.103 B1674
Publication Date: 2002-12-13
Online access available as well.
Dictionary of the Old Testament: Prophets by Mark J. Boda (Editor); J. Gordon McConville (Editor)
Call Number: R 224.03 B6661
Publication Date: 2012-05-17
Online access available as well.
Dictionary of the Old Testament: Wisdom, Poetry, & Writings by Tremper Longman III (Editor); Peter Enns (Editor)
Call Number: R 221.3 L8565
Publication Date: 2008-06-06
Online access available as well.

Old Testament Background Commentaries

The New Manners and Customs of Bible Times by Gower, Ralph
Call Number: R 220.95 G723 2005
There is also an older version available in the stacks at 220.95 G723.
The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament by John H. Walton; Mark W. Chavalas; Victor H. Matthews
Call Number: R 221.7 W239
Publication Date: 2000
This resource provides an easy to use guide to background that explores cultural elements of Scripture verse-by-verse. It is an excellent starting place for background studies of specific passages.
Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: Old Testament by John H. Walton, editor
Call Number: R 221.7 W239Z
Publication Date: 2009
This multi-volume commentary provides an illustrated guide to introductory background information of the Bible. It includes outlines of each book as well as some brief reflective commentary. There is a second copy you could check out.