Explanatory Bible New Testament (Set of 2 volumes)

Russian writer, translator, biblicist, and theologian Alexander Pavlovich Lopukhin (1852–1904) was born in the Saratov province into an ancient noble family. Alexander Pavlovich graduated from the theological seminary and then from the theological academy. Being a diligent student, he was deeply interested in science, passionately studied foreign languages, and collaborated with various journals while still in school. In 1879, Lopukhin, who had already proven himself as a linguist and a gifted, thoughtful biblicist, was appointed psalmist at the Russian missionary church in New York. This trip had an indelible impression on the young man and influenced his subsequent research work. In the USA, he popularized Russian culture, and upon returning to Russia, he wrote extensively about the features of religious and social life across the ocean. In 1881, Lopukhin received a master's degree in theology and remained in the theological academy as a lecturer. Colleagues and students loved Alexander Pavlovich; those who knew Lopukhin personally described him as a compassionate person with a lively mind and a kind heart. Lopukhin combined his pedagogical activities with scientific ones. For his numerous works, he received several awards and gained popularity among readers of spiritual literature.

The first volume of the "Explanatory Bible" edited by Professor A. P. Lopukhin was published in 1904. Unfortunately, before his death, Lopukhin managed to interpret only the Pentateuch of Moses. However, the work started by Alexander Pavlovich was continued by other outstanding biblicists and professors of theological academies. As a result, the "Explanatory Bible" included a multitude of detailed commentaries from various theologians, clarifying for the reader the events of the Old and New Testaments. In this edition, the interpretations of the four Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, and the Apocalypse are adorned with magnificent color illustrations by the painter and graphic artist James Tissot.

James (Jean-Jacques Joseph) Tissot (1836–1902) was born into a family of fabric merchants in western France. After finishing a Jesuit boarding school, the young man went to Paris to study drawing at the School of Fine Arts. Many of his contemporaries noted the talent of the young man; his unique artistic style made Tissot famous not only in France but also in England. In the twilight of his life, Tissot began illustrating the New Testament. In order to depict the scenes from the life of Christ in the finest detail, the artist embarked on a journey to the Holy Land. There, he made notes about the customs of the local people and created sketches of nature, architecture, national costumes, and historical places. Thanks to the efforts of James Tissot, the events of biblical times are presented to readers in the smallest details.