Bible reference

In this one-volume commentary, an international interfaith team of 70 Biblical scholars offers exegesis of Biblical texts as historical criticism, classic literature, and canonical criticism. The treatment is gender inclusive with a very open, modern approach to topics that touch on sexuality and every private and public moral question of scripture. Each book, including the Apocrypha, has an introduction and chapter-end bibliography. At its moderate price and inclusive tone, it will appeal to the casual seeker and scholar alike and serve as a jump-off place for more in-depth study.

Joy Bencivenga lives in Franklin, Mass.