This book introduces a scholar who, in this century, has surely been one of the world's most influential theologians, and it will be useful both for those well-acquainted with Gerhard von Rad and for those who do not know his work. It is apparent that Professor Crenshaw is engaged in a fascinating dialogue with von Rad. The reader will find a portrait of a unique personality which was in its essence shaped entirely by his intimate study and knowledge of the biblical texts. James L. Crenshaw has especially investigated von Rad's entire literary corpus with great care. With sensitivity he has presented von Rad's methodology and approach as well as his artistic achievement, knowing that von Rad's interpretation of Old Testament texts enables one to see them with new insight. Thus the author draws his readers into a fresh confrontation with the Old and then the New Testaments. In this book one finds a continuation of von Rad's unique gift for making the Old Testament exciting for several generations of university students in all fields, students of theology, and pastors. - Foreword.