In sum, this volume provides close and careful examinations of a rich variety of texts, thoughtful summaries of what may be concludedwith regard to each type of literature, two innovative appendices, and a number of detailed indexes. The author combines a broad knowledge of religious phenomenology, the theory of myth, and the classical and Christian traditions with a specialized, masterly, and detailed understanding of biblical, rabbinic, and kabbalistic texts and traditions. He presents the reader with a vast amount of text to absorb and an extensive number of interpretations and conclusions on which to reflect.

Stefan C Reif, The Journal of Theological Studies

Fishbane is one of those scholars best qualified to tackle a topic that covers nearly two thousand years of religous and literary history and he does not here shirk any aspects of the indomitable challenge that such a task represents...a work of sound and solid scholarship. Its interpretations and conclusions will long remain the subject of much discussion...truly outstanding and exceptionally important piece of research.

Stfan C Reif, The Journal of Theological Studies

a comprehensive study...a work of major significance for biblical and jewish studies.

Peter Hayman, The Expository Times