Best Commentaries on Genesis

Though somewhat dated, Kidner’s commentary offers an excellent and concise explanation of the text with a redemptive focus. He fearlessly tackles the major issues raised by the book including how the Genesis account of creation squares with modern science.

Kline’s posthumously published commentary on Genesis distills his mature views on the book of Genesis and its relation to Scripture as a whole. Following an introduction that addresses the canonical function, literary-thematic framework, theological story, and authorship of Genesis, Kline separates the text into ten structural divisions and offers an insightful interpretation of each.

Currid is a Reformed scholar who treats the text thoroughly. He emphasizes practical application and a redemptive focus on Christ.

Mathews’ exceptionally detailed discussion of the biblical text handles disputed passages with sensitivity. His high view of Scripture is reflected throughout his discussion. An important work for pastors to consult.

Ross divides Genesis into more than 60 units and then guides pastors to understand each section’s structure and synthesize its message. For each section, he suggests an exegetical and expository outline to aid the pastor in preparing sermons.

Sailhamer tends to avoid weighing in on controversies and instead focuses on Genesis’s literary beauty, emphasizing its unity and intertextual connections with other books in the Pentateuch. He highlights recurring themes like obedience and faith, the good land, the younger brother surpassing the older, and narrative retellings.

A magnificent tool for exegesis with an enormous store of information and sound analysis. Hamilton, an Asbury University professor, interacts extensively with Wenham’s earlier commentaries, arguing for a ten-division structure of the book.

McKeown sees Genesis as the foundational sourcebook for biblical theology. He begins with exegesis of the Hebrew text, highlighting the recurrence of key words, phrases, and themes throughout the book. He also draws attention to passages particularly pertinent to Jewish readers during the post-exilic period.

Waltke explores Genesis as “theological literature” while giving attention to the flow and development of the plot and literary structure that shapes the book’s message. He provides helpful exegetical notes that address key theological and social issues such as ecology, homosexuality, temperance, evil, prayer, and obedience.

Wenham’s commentaries offer a detailed exposition of the text with sound judgments on difficult passages. Not only does he provide helpful comments on the semantics of Hebrew words, he is also sensitive to word order and other syntactic matters beyond mere word study. The volumes exhibit a high view of Scripture and treat the text with great respect, displaying an excellent grasp of contemporary scholarship.