MCOB VOL 1 PENTATEUCH/TORAH (Mercer Commentary on the Bible)

--the first one-volume commentary based on the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible

--covers the complete Bible, including the noncanonical books

--by the same producers of the award-winning Mercer Dictionary of the Bible

--includes introductory articles on the nature of Scripture, its interpretation, and its role in theology and church

--reverent appreciation of the religious dimensions of the text

--written by teachers sensitive to the needs of students

--designed for use in the classroom and for independent research

--inclusive in language and perspective

--includes extensive bibliographies

The contributors generally approach the expositions from a moderate viewpoint focus on scholarship more than tradition. For example, although Ecclesiastes has often been ascribed to Solomon, the Commentary gives reasons why it is likely someone else. However, in instances like these the contributors to a good job of giving both points of view and not forcing one idea on the readers. Thus, I have found it to be an excellent source when open-mindedness is desired.