Series: New International Commentary on the Old Testament

In this commentary, Thomas Renz reads Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah as three carefully crafted writings of enduring relevance, each of which makes a vital contribution to the biblical canon. Discussing the historical settings, Renz takes up both long-standing issues, such as the relationship of Zephaniah to Josiah’s reforms, and the socioeconomic conditions of the time suggested by recent archaeological research. The place of these writings within the Book of the Twelve is given fresh consideration, including the question of what one should make of the alleged redaction history of Nahum and Habakkuk.

The author’s careful translation of the text comes with detailed textual notes, illuminating some of the Bible’s most outstanding poetry (Nahum) and one of the biblical chapters that is among the most difficult to translate (Habakkuk 3). The thorough verse-by-verse commentary is followed by stimulating theological reflection, opening up avenues for teaching and preaching from these prophetic writings. No matter their previous familiarity with these and other Minor Prophets, scholars, pastors, and lay readers alike will find needed guidance in working through these difficult but important books of the Bible.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah

 I. The Nature of Prophetic Books

 II. The Minor Prophets in the Canon

 III. The Unity of the Book of the Twelve

 IV. Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah in the Book of the Twelve

 V. Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah and Their Constituent Units

 VI. An Outline of the Late Neo-Assyrian and Early Neo-Babylonian Period

The Book of Nahum

 I. The Profile of the Book

 II. The Development of the Book

 III. The Rhetorical Function of the Book

 IV. Commentary

The Book of Habakkuk

 I. The Profile of the Book

 II. The Historical Setting of the Book

 III. The Rhetorical Function of the Book

 IV. Commentary

The Book of Zephaniah

 I. The Profile of the Book

 II. The Historical Setting of the Book

 III. The Rhetorical Function of the Book

 IV. Commentary