To the best of my knowledge, writes Martin Buber of this book, what has been attempted here is the first comprehensive attempt of its kind. Buber, steeped in the literature of the Old Testament as he is, here seeks to disengage history from saga and to convey the meaning of Sinai to the 20th century.

In this book a fascinating attempt is made to depict the historical Moses. The work is rich in brilliant comment. He has profound things to say on the flight of Moses to Midian, where he met with a life resembling that of his ancestors; on the Burning Bush where he saw fire but no form; on Moses before Pharoah, as the first historical instance of prophet versus king; on the contrast between Moses summoned and anointed by God and Balaam made us of by Him. The style is invariably clear, precise, and dignified. This is a book to be read, re-read, and treasured.