Exodus

Marvin A. Sweeney presents a new and innovative commentary on the book of Exodus. He presents an analysis of both the final, synchronic, literary form of Exodus, together with a discussion of the diachronic, historical composition of the book from the initial Ephraimitic composition to the later Priestly edition of the book. Sweeney argues that Exodus constitutes a classic example of an ancient Near Eastern creation narrative in which YHWH, the G-d of Israel, defeats Pharaoh, recognized as a god in Egypt. YHWH uses elements of creation, newly recognized in the Exodus narrative, to defeat Pharaoh, exercise sovereignty over creation, and deliver the nation of Israel from Egyptian oppression. He also treats major elements and themes in the reception history of Exodus in Judaism, Christianity, African American, Asian, and other cultures to demonstrate how the book of Exodus has inspired readers throughout the world.