Jonah

Jonah is perhaps one of the least understood books of the Bible, with most people unable to get by the "whale" (actually, dag gadol, or great fish). The book contains fascination interaction between men and God, which Sasson brings out well. Not only does Sasson go phrase by phrase through the four-chapter book of Jonah, discussing the book, discussing sources, but he provides us with an excellent translation, and lengthy introduction and postscripts. You'll read about the millenia-old debate as to whether Jonah is historical or not. Sources from Jewish, Christian, secular, and other traditions are used. Anyone from beginner to expert will get something out of this book, and it really doesn't matter what religion you are. I have no idea what religion Sasson is a member of. Jews may have a slight advantage in the discussions of Masoretic cantillation, since many learn them in preparation for Bar Mitzvah, but it really isn't necessary for a good understanding of what Sasson is getting at. A good source for the reference library, or for anyone interested in learning more about the Book of Jonah than the 51 verses in the Bible.

Sasson's commentary on the book of Jonah follows in the best tradition of the Anchor Bible commentary series. While Sasson is a leading scholar, he avoids the hypertechnicality that permeates some modern Bible commentaries. Sasson is quite fair to the commentators that have proceeded him. In a lengthy introduction, he reviews the various interpretations given the book of Jonah as, for example, irony, comedy, allegory, parable, etc., giving each approach its due. Sasson also reviews the scholarly arguments over the dating of the book. Sasson comments on each chapter, verse by verse, and does an excellent job of showing themes that run through the book. In addition, relying upon sources from the ancient world, Sasson sheds light on many of the mundane activities described in the book, such as seafaring and travel. As is customary with Anchor Bible commentaries, Sasson includes a lengthy bibliography. Even if you end up disagreeing with Sasson's own interpretation, you will surely find enlightening his generous approach that includes so many other viewpoints. This is an excellent book for anyone desiring an intensive study of one of the world's best known big fish stories.