One of the stated purposes of “Let There Be Light” is “to introduce the intelligent layperson…to the field of comparative Semitics”. As such, it is an advanced review of the language of Genesis and not an easy read. The glossary, as well as explanatory notes throughout, aid in the process. As a layperson, not a biblical scholar, I found it useful to read along in Genesis, using “Let There Be Light” as a commentary on the scripture. In this way, the verses explained are read in their context. I found it interesting and enlightening to see how the biblical narrative fits in with the other cultures and languages of the time. ( )

This is certainly a valuable addition to any interested layperson’s library. Though it does feel academic, this is the most accessible commentary based on Akkadian I have seen, mostly limiting itself to points of nuance in the text and general fundamental meanings, rather than overburdening the reader with dense academic controversies. The main benefit, for me at least, was the explanation of biblical idioms in their Ancient Near Eastern context. As a mild critique, I think this book would have been improved if the English translations of all the cited texts were more standardized. I found it a bit distracting when transitioning between such different styles of translation referenced.

The volume did a good job of explaining the meanings behind the text of the book of Genesis. Served me as a good review and study text. ( )

This is a commentary (peshat) on the grammar and words found within the Book of Genesis the seeks to understand the some of the more difficult and at times unique usage of many of the words found in the text be looking at etymology and potential antecedents outside of the biblical corpus (primarily Akkadian and Babylonian sources) as well as context of use within. As might be expected, there are areas where the authors find modern interpretations difficult or problematic where they attempt to introduce another interpretation that appears to be a better fit. Few, if any, change much of the over all meaning or intent of the text, avoiding any significant controversy while providing helpful nuance towards a better understanding for the reader.
Each chapter provides an analysis of a specific pericope taken in order, with subsections highlighting a particular term or phrase that starts with the current interpretation (and any problems and alternatives, keeping in mind the text doesn’t include vowels so there is the potential for several different terms using different vowels and some letters are visually similar), followed by any related usage within other places in the Bible (if any exist) and then external sources from which we see similar usage, idioms, and euphemism … which I found to be the most interesting and helpful part of the analysis (especially the examinations of idioms). There are a few limited observations with respect to style (prosaic and poetic), but most seems to focus of language evolution.
Again, this book is focused on what the words say and does not really venture into any theological explanation outside of explaining a few come idioms. This keeps each section very short where at times I wished for a bit more. And while there is a significant debate on some terms, there are a lot where they doesn’t seem to be any controversy at all and I am left wondering why it was included. However, overall, this is an excellent reference for any student of the Bible. ( )

This is an excellent introduction to a particular type of textual analysis and interpretation of the Hebrew text. Not only will you walk away with a much deeper understanding of the traditional text and of the Jewish understanding of Genesis, but also you'll understand how we approach the text and how we engage with it.
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