1. In literary studies, they are called the protagonist and antagonist, repectively. The words are Greek in origin; proto means 'first,' and agonistes, 'contestant' or 'actor.' Anti is, of course, 'against.'
2. The name derives from the Greek letter chi. Χ, because the series may also be restated in the manner that resembles the letter:
A B C
D
C B A
3. There is actually another level of emphasis that, unfortunately, is not obvious to readers of the English translations. Of the wives of the two sons, Abram's is named first. Her name would have gladdened the heart of a first-time Hebrew listener; Sarai is Princess! But the name of Nahor's wife is Milcah, Queen! And thus, even in name, Sarai is upstaged.
4. We can only discuss the passage here in broad outlines. For a more detailed discussion, see Genesis 1:1-2:4a under the Lay-Preachers' Bible.
5. The device gets its name from Janus, the Greek god of doorways. Janus is depicted as having two faces, one facing inwards and the other outwards.
6. This chapter is often misunderstood and almost never ever preached. This is unfortunate, for when properly understood, it is a powerful expression of the incomparable grace of God.
Part—though only part—of the problem has to do with translators using different English words for the same Hebrew words, and identical English words for different Hebrew words.
7. Notice that they did not lie outright to their father; they allowed their father to draw his own dreadful conclusion.
8. This is taken from my commentary on Deuteronomy which is being revised and reformatted for publication in ALBERITH.