As the foundation for the Old Testament, the first five books of the Bible are of critical importance. However, most modern studies focus on origin, neglecting actual content. From Paradise to the Promised Land offers a unique alternative by identifying the major themes and offering an overview of the contents of the Pentateuch. Unlike some academic studies, this book focuses on how the books from Genesis to Deuteronomy form a continuous story that provides an important foundation for understanding the whole Bible.

This accessible textbook has been a popular introduction to the Pentateuch for over twenty-five years. The new edition has been substantially updated throughout to reflect the author's refined judgments and to address the future of pentateuchal studies.