This is a thoroughly researched and carefully crafted commentary on the Protoevangelium of James, an ancient text considered one of the premier resources used by the Gospel writers. Closs begins his commentary with an introduction to the Gospel of Mark, who likely drew his resources primarily from the Protevangelium, specifically regarding the messianic secret. After providing background, Closs introduces the Protoevangelium itself, based on Mary’s own testimony regarding the history of her birth, childhood, immaculate conception, and the birth of Jesus. The ancient text is presented in its entirety, with footnotes for each verse giving historical context of world events that were occurring in the same timeline, biblical perspectives drawing parallels between Mary’s origin story and Old Testament figures, semantic details, and interpretations of the events described.

This is a thorough, insightful, and diligent commentary on an ancient text that is not widely known yet forms the basis of the Gospel stories Christians are intimately familiar with. Closs gently encourages readers to think critically of the stories they may have taken for granted, to “insert ourselves into the narrative,” as he states at one point. He shows great compassion for the historical figures, noting, for example, that the immaculate conception of Mary “would be a nightmare for any woman, to find herself pregnant and not know how it happened. The entire scene is very spiritually painful to both Joseph and Mary.” He provides bold critiques of other scholars but offers sufficient evidence to back up his conclusions. He also anticipates criticism of his own positions by preemptively providing solid resources and background for his arguments. He guides readers step-by-step through a meticulously crafted commentary, into which he evidently poured his heart and soul. It is a beautiful guide for anyone interested in delving more deeply into the origins of Christianity.

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