1 and 2 Chronicles

Williamson’s commentary remains remarkably valuable despite its age and relative brevity. Its chief strength is exegetical judgment: he repeatedly identifies the decisive literary and theological issue without making every minor difference from Samuel–Kings carry intentional significance, and he is especially alert to the possibility of textual variation or a different Vorlage. His work was foundational in reshaping modern understanding of Chronicles, including the relationship with Ezra–Nehemiah, “all Israel,” the temple, the Davidic tradition and the Chronicler’s compositional technique. Later commentaries provide far more detail, but Williamson often reaches the important conclusion with greater economy and restraint. It remains one of the best commentaries to consult early in the study of almost any passage.

This revised version of Williamson’s commentary has much insight to offer readers seeking to learn more about the post-exilic context of 1 and 2 Chronicles. Though this is a critical commentary, Williamson sees the narrative as primarily historical, and as a result, he provides some helpful theological reflection. [Full Review]

A commentary from one of the premier biblical scholars of his generation. Full of rich insights, but presented in brief and readable formats. Very concise. A priceless treasury. After Japhet, it’s the next commentary that I would turn to. [Full Review]

another excellent and detailed commentary

Presents the books as basically historical with creative development for theological purposes. [Full Review]