The Expositor's Bible: Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther

"The Expositor's Bible: Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther" by Walter F. Adeney is a theological commentary written in the late 19th century. The work provides an in-depth analysis of the biblical books of Ezra and Nehemiah, exploring their historical context, themes, and significance in Jewish religious life. This volume is likely of interest to those looking to deepen their understanding of the post-exilic period in Israel’s history and how these events shape Jewish identity and faith. The opening of the text begins with an introduction that emphasizes the authenticity and reliability of the historical records in Ezra and Nehemiah. Adeney discusses the unique writing style that distinguishes the narrative from other literature, noting how the first-person accounts contribute to its credibility. He sets the stage for the reader, explaining the importance of Ezra and Nehemiah's roles—Ezra as a scribe dedicated to the Law and Nehemiah as a political leader responsible for rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. This groundwork establishes a promising exploration of how these figures emerged as focal points in the religious revival of the Jewish people following their Babylonian exile. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Walter Frederic Adeney was an English Congregationalist minister, theologian, and biblical scholar. Born in Ealing in 1849, he was educated at New College and University College London. He served as a minister in Acton from 1872 to 1889 and became a lecturer in biblical and systematic theology at New College, London, in 1887. He was promoted to a professorship in New Testament exegesis and church history at New College in 1889, before moving to become Principal of Lancashire Independent College in Manchester in 1903. In addition to the numerous works he wrote on the Bible, for both academic and popular audiences, Adeney was general editor of the Century Bible Commentary, and in 1908 he published an extensive history of Eastern Christianity, The Greek and Eastern Churches. He retired in 1913, and died in Lewes on 1 September 1920.