A major reference for reading and studying the Bible, containing some 5,000 articles. Explains all the books, persons, places, events, and significant terms found in the scriptures, and explores the cultural, geographical, and literary background of each biblical book. Incorporates articles that explore related areas such as biblical theology, text and transmission, Near Eastern archaeology, and extrabiblical writings. Entries reflect recent archaeological discoveries and recent scholarship, including insights from literary, historical, sociological, and other recent approaches to the Bible. Freedman is affiliated with the University of California-San Diego. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)