The eNotated Book of Genesis - MOBI

eNotated by Maura O'Neill

Though most ebooks are simple conversions of paper books, “The eNotated Book of Genesis" is a completely new approach that takes advantage of the potential ebook technology offers to extend and enrich this text in a way that’s convenient to use while still unobtrusive to the reader.

According to eNotator Maura O'Neill, "'The Book of Genesis' was redacted from oral traditions and written down over centuries by writers whom many believe were divinely inspired."

"Inherent in our human nature is the desire to know our origins, and all peoples and cultures have a story to explain how their life began. One such explanation is found in the first book of the Bible, Genesis, a word meaning “origin.” Not only does this work provide the basis for Jewish and Christian faith, but it also has had a great influence on contemporary Western culture as is evidenced by its adaptations in movies, art, children's literature, and politics.

"Because it was written between 3000 and 2400 years ago, it is important to look at the history, literature and culture of the ancient world in order to understand the context and significance of the book. The more we study the text, the easier it will be to discover its influence throughout history and to make our own decisions regarding its interpretation.

"The eNotations made here take into account advances in the fields of history, archeology, paleontology, linguistics and sociology. Through extensive research, scholars in these disciplines have discovered how the ancient world viewed its surroundings and communicated its meaning in oral and written stories.

"All scholars agree ... on the purpose of the Book, that is, to explain God's work in the world and to demonstrate Israel's special place in the fulfillment of God's plan. This main purpose must be kept in mind as we weave our way through the colorful, confusing and sometimes shocking paths through which the narratives of the Book of Genesis lead us. In summary, whether one's interest in the Bible is religious or simply literary, the information regarding its formation can only enhance the interpretation and increase one's appreciation for this fascinating work" (From the eIntroduction).

This edition of "Genesis" includes an introduction, an essay describing the four major sections of Genesis, a bibliography, and more than 260 eNotations that extend the text by providing a new layer of information the reader can access before, during, and after each chapter.

If you are going to read “The Book of Genesis” for the first time - or return to this fascinating and influential story after some years - you will best enjoy and most throughly understand “The Book of Genesis” with this unique eNotated edition.