Ernst Würthwein's introduction to the Biblia Hebraica has long served as a textbook for generations of students interested in the history of the Old Testament text and the problems of textual criticism. From its first appearance in 1952 to the fifth German edition in 1988, the book was faithfully updated by Würthwein himself in light of new research. But now a new edition of "Würthwein" is due.

While staying true to the original structure and character of Würthwein's classic work, Alexander Fischer has rewritten the text completely to bring it up to date with the new Quinta edition of Biblia Hebraica. Besides updating information throughout, this edition includes a new chapter on the texts from the Qumran. This third edition of The Text of the Old Testament will be an indispensable resource for serious students of the Biblia Hebraica and Old Testament exegesis.

Reviews

"This finely revised and nicely updated version of one of the classics in our field can truly be called a grand introduction to the history of the biblical text." - Kristin De Troyer, University of St. Andrews

"Readers familiar with Würthwein's earlier work will discover all of the strengths of his approach to Biblical Hebrew. Old and new readers will enjoy the thoroughly up-to-date discussion of the aims and methods of textual criticism as well as the unbiased analysis of ancient versions and their modern scholarly editions. Beautifully reproduced plates are easy to read, and the updated bibliography is satisfyingly full. . . . This successful project can be easily digested by newcomers and savored by specialists." - Leonard Greenspoon, Creighton University

"A very welcome, thorough revision of the long-honored standard introduction to the Masoretic text. Its integration of recent scholarship is first-rate, and the rewritten text retains the clear, accessible style that won its predecessors decades of popularity as a textbook. Yet another generation of students will find in this book a friendly, reliable guide through the complex terrain of ancient Hebrew texts and their relationships. Highly commended." - Robert L. Hubbard, North Park Theological Seminary

"Every scholar and serious Bible student should have a passing knowledge of the work of the text critic. This book will provide such knowledge." - The Bible Today

"An important, up-to-date resource that will benefit everyone interested in Old Testament Textual criticism. The excellent bibliography, diagrams, and plates are unique contributions among introductory works in the field. Highly recommended." - Books at a Glance

Ernst Würthwein (1909-1996) was professor emeritus of Old Testament at Philipps-Universität Marburg in Germany.

Alexander Achilles Fischer is professor of Old Testament at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Thuringia, Germany.