De vita Mosis (Book I)

Philo of Alexandria is one of the most important Jewish authors from antiquity, but has been underappreciated in scholarship. In this work, Hunt provides a fresh translation of book 1 of Philo's Life of Moses, the first English translation in over eighty years. The sizable introduction places Philo's treatise in its ancient context, demonstrating how Philo's depiction aligns and differs from those of contemporary authors. Localized notes help readers of every level better understand the text, how Philo engages with ancient philosophical literature, and how Philo interprets Scripture. This is a welcome addition to Philonic studies, and Hunt is to be congratulated.

~Sean A. Adams, Professor of New Testament and Ancient Culture, University of Glasgow

Hunt’s translation and contextualization of this important work by Philo is a welcome contribution to students and scholars of Philo, early Judaism, and ancient philosophy. His introduction to The Life of Moses 1 situates his own work within the conversation of contemporary Philonic scholarship with a careful weighing of evidence and even-handed conclusions; his translation is accessible and illuminating; and his notes include useful comparisons to a breadth of ancient sources, from Middle Platonic and Stoic ideas to Second Temple Jewish and Rabbinic literature. This resource will be a valuable addition to students and scholars alike.

~Paul T. Sloan, Associate Professor of Early Christianity, Houston Christian University

The influence of Philo’s The Life of Moses can hardly be overestimated for later Christian—and thereby for Western—tradition writ large. Today, it serves as a valuable resource to illustrate how Moses and the Jewish tradition that claimed him was understood in antiquity, especially in relation to the Greek and Roman cultures that had spread throughout Egypt and the rest of the Mediterranean world. Jeff Hunt’s expert review of Philo’s life and context, along with his fresh translation provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient Judaism, Christianity, or the classical world in general. It is a must-have for any learned person’s collection.

~David E. Wilhite, Professor of Historical Theology, George W. Truett Theological Seminary