Comprehensive Commentary on the Holy Bible: Containing the Text According to the Authorized Version; Scott's Marginal References; Matthew Henry's Commentary...

The Comprehensive Commentary on the Holy Bible was a significant multi-volume editorial undertaking published in the mid-19th century, primarily edited by William Jenks. It was designed to consolidate various respected theological resources, including the well-known commentary by Matthew Henry and the marginal references established by Thomas Scott, into a singular, accessible reference work for clergy and serious lay students. The project emerged from a period of intense interest in biblical scholarship, aiming to provide a scholarly yet manageable resource for the Victorian-era home and pulpit.

The physical design of these volumes typically featured sturdy, utilitarian bindings suited for frequent study, often incorporating extensive cross-referencing systems and supplemental notes. By organizing these disparate texts into a unified format, the editors sought to streamline the research process for readers who previously had to navigate multiple bulky volumes. The commentary was generally well-received by contemporary theological circles for its practical synthesis of historical interpretation, serving as a staple reference in private libraries and theological seminaries for several decades.