The axiomatic theory of sets is a vibrant part of pure mathematics, with its own basic notions, fundamental results, and deep open problems. It is also viewed as a foundation of mathematics so that to make a notion precise simply means to define it in set theory. This book gives a solid introduction to pure set theory through transfinite recursion and the construction of the cumulative hierarchy of sets, and also attempts to explain how mathematical objects can be faithfully modeled within the universe of sets. In this new edition the author has added solutions to the exercises, and rearranged and reworked the text to improve the presentation.