Print (Hardcover)
This commentary on 2 Samuel presents renowned scholar Harry A. Hoffner Jr.’s final work. An expert Hittitologist, Hoffner brings his understanding of ancient Near Eastern cultures to the text of 1–2 Samuel, providing an enduring commentary. After the period of Judges, the books of 1–2 Samuel continue the narrative sweep of Israel’s history, covering the life of the prophet Samuel, the rise and fall of King Saul, and the reign of God’s chosen king, David. Hoffner examines these books in their historical context and considers how they anticipate a coming perfect king, God’s true Anointed One.
Get both volumes of 1 & 2 Samuel together in hardcover or Logos digital format.
Numerous adjectives come to mind to describe this masterful commentary: insightful, judicious, informed, nuanced, well-documented—all these and more explain why this commentary will join the ranks of the great commentaries on Samuel. Hoffner amasses an impressive amount of textual, historical, cultural, and theological data to provide all that one expects in a comprehensive commentary.
—John H. Walton, professor of Old Testament Emeritus, Wheaton College
Given that Samuel is one of the most complicated books in the Bible—textually, historically, and literarily—a proper treatment requires a learned scholar who can also engage the text with sensitivity and rigor. The late Harry Hoffner's treatment of Samuel ticks all the boxes—and more! Moreover, his expertise with ancient Hittite culture positions his voice above all others as one who can navigate the textual and historical realities unique to Samuel. This work is not only a fitting addition to the EEC series, which boasts a commitment to robust, critical, and evangelical treatment of the Bible, but it is also a fitting testimony to Hoffner's legacy.
—David B. Schreiner, assistant professor of Old Testament, Wesley Biblical Seminary
Informed by many years of research on the ancient Near East, Hoffner shows good judgment in his discussion of critical questions, expert literary skill in his analysis of the biblical text, and a vibrant faith in his exposition of Samuel as Scripture that brings out theological implications relevant for modern Christians in both the church and the academy.
—Paul Evans, associate professor of Old Testament, McMaster Divinity College
Students and interpreters of 1 & 2 Samuel will welcome this thorough, well-researched, and insightful commentary. As one might expect from an eminent Hittite scholar, Hoffner’s comments on cultural backgrounds are particularly enlightening and valuable.
—Robert B. Chisholm, Jr., chair and senior professor of Old Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary
The Evangelical Exegetical Commentary (EEC) series is a premiere biblical commentary rooted in the original text of Scripture. Incorporating the latest in critical biblical scholarship and written from a distinctly evangelical perspective, each comprehensive volume features a remarkable amount of depth, providing historical and literary insights, and addressing exegetical, pastoral, and theological details. Readers will gain a full understanding of the text and how to apply it to everyday life.
Learn more about the other titles in this series.
Harry A. Hoffner Jr. (1934–2015) was John A. Wilson professor emeritus of Hittitology at the University of Chicago. He was considered a world expert on ancient Near Eastern culture specializing in the Hittite language, history, and civilization.