The rare fourth edition of Dillmann’s historical commentary on the book of Genesis, in the original German, is once again available. Reflecting the keen intellect of a biblical scholar educated by the lights of the University of Tübingen, Dillmann was aided in his biblical exegesis by a devoted interest to Ethiopic studies and an interest in the cultural surroundings of ancient Israel. Charged with comparative philological notes and theological insight, this commentary made an impact on all following continental commentaries and analyses of the book. Widely recognized as a leading biblical exegete of his day, Dillmann ensured that his commentaries contained theological substance as well as textual clarity.

Christian Friedrich August Dillmann (1823-1894) began his career as a student at the University of Tübingen. He became fascinated with Ethiopic manuscripts and studied extant material in France and England. He eventually returned to teach at Tübingen, but moved on the Universities of Kiel, Giessen, and finally Berlin.