"More than any other book, the Bible offers an amazing collection of fascinating characters ranging from the holiest of the holy to some of the most depraved scoundrels imaginable. Many are menti
"More than any other book, the Bible offers an amazing collection of fascinating characters ranging from the holiest of the holy to some of the most depraved scoundrels imaginable. Many are mentioned only in passing, yet history and archaeology can often fill in the blanks and flesh them out as exciting human beings. For this reason we have in many cases been able to tell much more about them than the Bible alone reveals."
-- Richard R. Losch (from the preface)
A comprehensive gathering of persons found in the Bible, including the Apocrypha, All the People in the Bible really delivers on its title: literally all of the Bible's characters appear in this fascinating reference work. From the first article on Aaron to the final entry on Zophar, Richard Losch details each person in a lively narrative style.
The bulk of the book consists of Losch's A–Z articles covering the familiar and the not-so-familiar figures in Scripture. Names of people who are found only in genealogies or who had no significant effect on history are included solely in the alphabetical listing starting on page 452. That listing, “All the People in the Bible and Apocrypha,” includes pronunciations, brief identifications, and biblical references. Persons covered in greater detail in the main part of the book are identified in bold print.
Losch's intriguing look at all the people in the Bible is anything but a dry reference work. This is a book to dip into and enjoy over and over.
Clyde E. Fant
— Stetson University
"Richard Losch has written much more than just another ‘name book.' What he has given us is really a commentary on the Bible, seen through the unique focus of the human players in the biblical story. His comprehensive work is meticulously researched, accurately presented, and fascinatingly written. All pastors should add this impressive volume to those books they keep in reach — it will be in constant use."
Review of Biblical Literature
“Losch has provided an attractive and usable guide to all the ‘saints, scoundrels, and other characters in Scripture’ that, indeed, demonstrates the truly human and historical nature of the Judeo-Christian biblical tradition.”
Choice
“This straightforward, insightful reference book is based on a close reading of the Bible and the Apocrypha. . . . Recommended.”
American Reference Books Annual
“Losch’s organized treatment of the characters in the Bible, as well as his respect for other traditions and enthusiasm for the Judeo-Christian scriptures, makes All the People in the Bible a must for any church or seminary library.”
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