Book excerpt: The landmark general reference Bible that offers the full text of the New Revised Standard Version. Completely revised and updated, this new edition includes revised introductions and notes, and new diagrams, charts and maps––25% revised or new material. More Praise for the HarperCollins Study Bible: •"I ... can speak with unbounded praise for this work. The auspices are impeccable, the sponsorship is by one of the most prestigious and effective publishing firms in the field of religious publishing, and the scholarship under the aegis of the Society of Biblical Literature, which is the only game in town, the NBA of Bible study in this country (and abroad)."–David Noel Freedman, Endowed Chair in Hebrew Biblical Studies, University of California, San Diego; Editor–in–Chief, Anchor Bible Project •"The HarperCollins Study Bible engages some of the best of biblical scholarship for removing unnecessary obstacles in reading the Scriptures. I welcome its publication and recommend it highly."–Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, The Krister Stendahl Professor Scripture and Interpretation, Harvard University •"The HarperCollins Study Bible is the most authoritative ecumenical Bible available, the work of scholars who are at the cutting edge of their subjects. I recommend it highly."–John J. Collins, The University of Chicago •"This is the Bible I have been looking for to use in undergraduate courses. The text itself is clear and readable. The introductions are sound and precise. The footnotes are balanced, accurate and hit a good balance between the dangers of being too terse and too extended."–Harvey Cox, The Victor S. Thomas Professor of Divinity, the Divinity School, Harvard University •"An invaluable resource for teachers and students, and indeef for every thoughtful reader of the Bible."–Richard P. McBrien, Crowley–O'Brien–Walter Professor of Theology, University of Notre Dame •"I am extremely glad for the HarperCollins Study Bible....Every effort has been made to make these study notes understandable and accessible to ordinary readers. They can be trusted to provide reliable information without trying to control what should be believed."–Richard Foster, author of Celebration of Discipline