This volume provides a ""road map"" of four major Old Testament/Hebrew Bible themes: covenant, universalism, remnant, and wisdom. Each theme draws on specific examples from the biblical text and ancient Near Eastern literature. The themes demonstrate how ancient Israel developed a distinct identity during its various phases from the formation of the monarchy to the post-exilic period. ""Matthews provides his readers with a spirited 'road map' to the heart of the Old Testament by exploring four interrelated themes that imaginatively draw the reader into the world of the Bible. In a concise, readable book, Matthews aptly explains what is perhaps the central point of the Old Testament--the benefits derived from obedience to the covenant and from a life striving for wisdom."" -- Frank S. Frick, Albion College ""Written in an engaging style, Victor Matthews' work discusses four major Old Testament themes in a way that is clear and pedagogically friendly for scholars, students, and general readers of biblical literature. Matthews' thematic approach to the Old Testament affords readers the opportunity to see the links that do exist among the various books of the first canon."" -- Carol J. Dempsey, University of Portland ""Victor Matthews has performed another great service for the teaching professor charged with introducing students to the Bible. With the skill of a seasoned educator, Matthews guides readers along four key tracks in accessing the Old Testament's substance. He also includes plenty of keen insights about the social world of the concepts and texts he explores."" -- Stephen L. Cook, Virginia Theological Seminary ""In a clear and compelling way, Victor Matthews discerns and articulates unified themes among the variety of stories and voices in Hebrew Scripture. This valuable service makes Old Testament Themes highly useful for students of the Bible in several settings, including colleges, universities, seminaries, and the church."" -- J. Clinton McCann, Jr., Eden Theological Seminary Victor H. Matthews is Dean of the College of Humanities and Public Affairs and Professor of Religious Studies at Missouri State University. He is the author of seventeen books and dozens of scholarly articles on the social world of ancient Israel.