This abridged commentary highlights the essence of the Old Testament and condenses approximate 1200 pages to fewer than 120. Included are interfaith references from the Hebrew Tanakh, Greek Septuagint, Latin Vulgate, Arabic Quran, and English King James. The Old Testament is full of blessings and victories, as well as wrath and bloodshed. Yet it typifies a consistent theme: God blesses all with the opportunity of justice and mercy; whereas evil is chaotic and self-destructive. Understanding this dichotomy, this enmity between good and evil, outweighs the importance of historical detail and traditional rituals. Spiritual understanding allows all to enter the promised land and experience more peace in everyday life. From this nondenominational viewpoint, the Old Testament becomes a practical guide to harmony. "Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live" (Ps 119:77).
