A Book Review from Books At a Glance
by Tim Moss
Introduction
In the most recent volume of Zondervan’s Exegetical Commentary on the Old Testament, Jay Sklar comprehensively analyzes the Book of Leviticus. Sklar, who is Vice President of Academics and Professor of Old Testament at Covenant Theological Seminary, offers his second commentary on Leviticus, having previously contributed to the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries (TOTC) series in 2014.
The structure of this commentary adheres to the established format of the series. It begins with introductory material that discusses the text’s date, authorship, and critical themes, followed by a detailed exegetical outline and accompanying commentary.
The introduction sets the context for the book and explains its title. Sklar provides extensive background information and clarifies the etymology of the book’s title. Subsequently, he surveys traditional and higher-critical scholarship on the authorship and dating of Leviticus from the nineteenth to the twenty-first century. In this section, Sklar avoids overwhelming the reader with excessive details, offering essential information for understanding the text.
The subsequent fifty pages delve into the theology of Leviticus and address significant issues within the text that are crucial for its study. Sklar excels in elucidating the book’s motifs, starting with the concept of God as the Covenant King and tracing the requirements for those in a relationship with God. However, he misses an opportunity to thoroughly explore the motif that God’s laws are intended to protect the people from divine wrath—a theme evident in the death of Aaron’s sons (Leviticus 10:1-7), the regulations concerning idol worship, family and sexual offenses, and the injunctions to adhere to God’s laws in chapter 20. Although Sklar touches on this issue in his section on the theology of Leviticus, the discussion appears somewhat fragmented. Nevertheless, he addresses this theme more cohesively in the “Canonical and Theological Significance” section following his exegesis of Leviticus 10:1-20.
Commentary
The initial noteworthy aspect of this commentary is twofold. Firstly, Sklar excels in presenting the text in a manner that benefits a wide range of readers, from the average Christian to the Old Testament scholar. Secondly, Sklar includes numerous drawings and tables to aid the reader’s comprehension of the text. Upon reviewing four other Zondervan Old Testament volumes, it is evident that none contain as many tables and drawings as this volume.
The primary focus of this review is on the author’s utilization of Hebrew throughout the commentary, the introductory remarks preceding each exegetical section, and the concluding application segments within each pericope since encapsulating over 800 pages of commentary for a review would be untenable. The commentary extensively employs discourse analysis to scrutinize the text within its broader context, thereby facilitating readers’ comprehension of the cohesive message of Leviticus, as articulated in the introduction. Throughout the volume, Sklar adeptly illuminates subtle nuances in word choice and syntax that significantly influence the interpretation of the text.
Although the commentary incorporates technical terminology, this should not dissuade readers unfamiliar with discourse analysis from appreciating its depth. However, those intending to use this commentary as a resource for preaching and teaching may find the extensive commentary overwhelming if they seek a concise exposition of each passage. Nevertheless, this volume is exemplary for readers desiring a comprehensive examination of each verse. Moreover, for students, this resource is invaluable for its extensive commentary and thorough footnoting, which aids further research.
The commentary is straightforward, and Sklar avoids adopting controversial stances on the text. When debates arise concerning the interpretation of specific passages, Sklar strives to present the majority of scholarly opinions while convincingly explaining his conclusions. For instance, in Leviticus 13:1-14:57, there is ongoing academic debate regarding צָרַעַת (ṣā·rǎ·ʿǎṯ) whether the condition described is leprosy or encompasses a broader range of skin diseases. Sklar effectively presents his perspective while also enumerating alternative viewpoints. He extensively reviews these various interpretations and their relationship to the text.
Many pastors, teachers, students, and others engaging with this volume in their study of Leviticus may lack a strong foundation in Hebrew. Nevertheless, Sklar excels in integrating the original language in an edifying way for both scholars and students. Sklar’s translation and exegetical outline present the original Hebrew text alongside his translation and analysis, facilitating a deeper understanding of the Scripture.
In the commentary section, Sklar explicates Hebrew words as necessary to elucidate their possible meanings. He does not merely translate these words but delves into their etymology and semantic range, exploring how their meanings can shift depending on context. This nuanced approach helps readers appreciate the depth and flexibility of the Hebrew language.
Additionally, Sklar effectively deconstructs phrases used by the writer, elucidating their meanings and occurrences throughout Leviticus. This involves breaking down complex Hebrew constructions and explaining how different grammatical elements contribute to the overall meaning of a passage. By doing so, Sklar provides readers with insight into the linguistic artistry of the text and the theological implications embedded in specific word choices and phrasings. However, those with limited knowledge of Hebrew grammar may occasionally feel overwhelmed, as Sklar sometimes introduces verbal forms with minimal or no explanation. While Sklar generally aims to make his analysis accessible, there are instances where grammatical explanations assume a certain level of prior knowledge. Despite this, the occasional use of advanced grammar and syntax should not deter anyone from engaging with this volume. Sklar’s explanations are usually clear and contextually grounded, meaning that even readers with minimal to no Hebrew can follow his arguments with some effort. This exposure can be particularly beneficial for students and pastors seeking to enhance their understanding of Biblical Hebrew.
Each chapter in Sklar’s commentary on Leviticus begins with a uniform structure, providing readers with a clear roadmap for navigating the text. This structure encompasses several key elements, including the passage’s main idea, literary context, structure and literary form, and a translation and exegetical outline.
The main idea presented at the outset of each chapter offers a broad overview of the commentary, serving as a guiding principle for readers as they delve into the text. While this overarching theme may not always lend itself directly to sermon or lesson preparation, it nonetheless provides readers with a foundational understanding of the passage’s central message.
Moreover, the literary context section at the beginning of each chapter proves invaluable for researchers focusing on specific passages. Sklar adeptly contextualizes each chapter within the broader narrative of Leviticus, illuminating the thematic connections and narrative progression that contribute to the book’s cohesive structure. By articulating the relationship of each chapter to its predecessors and its place within the overarching narrative, Sklar facilitates a deeper appreciation of the book’s theological themes and literary craftsmanship.
Sklar’s discussion on protasis and apodosis is a significant aspect of the introductory sections. This linguistic analysis enhances the reader’s comprehension of the chapters. This analytical framework elucidates the conditional clauses and their corresponding consequences found throughout Leviticus, shedding light on the text’s legal and ethical principles. Sklar’s consistent use of this format throughout the book reinforces the thematic coherence of Leviticus.
As a pastor and an aspiring theologian, I highly regard commentaries that offer rigorous exegetical analysis alongside robust theology and practical application. In this regard, Jay Sklar’s commentary on Leviticus is a notable exemplar, exemplifying the highest standards of biblical scholarship.
A notable feature of Sklar’s commentary, consistent with the Zondervan Exegetical Series, is the “Canonical and Theological Significance” section concluding each chapter. In these concluding reflections, Sklar demonstrates his mastery of both biblical interpretation and theological reflection. He excels in summarizing the canonical significance of the passages under consideration, drawing connections to pertinent New Testament texts and broader biblical themes. Sklar illuminates its theological significance and demonstrates its relevance for contemporary readers by situating Leviticus within the broader context of Scripture.
Moreover, Sklar goes beyond mere academic analysis to offer sound theological insights that are particularly beneficial for pastors preparing to expound the text. He skillfully navigates the theological complexities of Leviticus, addressing key doctrinal themes such as atonement, holiness, and the nature of God’s covenant with His people, providing pastors with rich resources for crafting sermons and teaching materials that faithfully communicate the message of Leviticus to their congregations. Additionally, one of the most impressive aspects of Sklar’s commentary is his ability to bridge the gap between the ancient text and contemporary application. Despite Leviticus’s intricate rituals and legal prescriptions, which may seem distant and inaccessible to modern readers, Sklar demonstrates how the enduring principles and theological truths embedded within the text remain relevant and applicable today. He elucidates Leviticus’s ethical imperatives and moral insights, guiding readers in discerning how these ancient laws and rituals inform Christian faith and practice in the present day.
Conclusion
Jay Sklar’s commentary on Leviticus, as part of Zondervan’s Exegetical Commentary on the Old Testament, is a significant contribution to the field of Old Testament studies. Sklar adeptly navigates the intricate and often challenging terrain of Levitical law, providing a comprehensive and accessible analysis that caters to a diverse audience. His structured approach, incorporating detailed introductory material, discourse analysis, and consistent application sections, ensures that readers can appreciate the text’s theological depth and practical relevance.
One of the commentary’s strengths lies in its ability to present complex Hebrew terminology and grammar in an educational and enriching manner for scholars and students alike. Sklar’s meticulous attention to the original language and his balanced presentation of scholarly debates underscore the academic rigor of this volume. Furthermore, including numerous drawings and tables enhances the reader’s understanding and engagement with the text.
Sklar’s commentary is particularly valuable for those preparing sermons or engaging in theological reflection. His integration of canonical and theological insights and practical applications bridges the ancient text with contemporary contexts, making this work an indispensable resource for pastors. Students and researchers will also find the extensive footnoting and comprehensive verse-by-verse analysis beneficial for further study and exploration.
In conclusion, Jay Sklar’s Leviticus commentary is a well-rounded and insightful addition to biblical scholarship. Its rigorous exegesis, theological depth, and practical applications make it valuable for students, pastors, and theologians. This volume is well worth having in any academic or ministerial library, offering profound insights and fostering a deeper understanding of the Book of Leviticus.
Tim Moss
Buy the books
LEVITICUS (ZONDERVAN EXEGETICAL COMMENTARY ON THE OLD TESTAMENT), by Jay Sklar