"This book does, in eminently readable language, what few 'introductions' to the Bible actually achieve. It presents, in terms intelligible to nonspecialists, the basic core of biblical thought and doctrine, the distinctive religious contribution of each scriptural book, and sets it not only against the historical background of its time but also in the perspective of its continuing and contemporary significance. Professor Hiers fills a need that has been long felt and does so with scholarship, style, and precision. This is a valuable guide for all who seek to know just what the Bible contains and why it is relevant for our day."