Abstract: A method for hydrogenating coal to produce benzene and other gas and liquid products. In the process, the coal is pulverized and dried, and then saturated with methanol. The methanol saturated coal is slurryed in benzene and the slurry is exposed to microwave energy of a frequency and for a period of time sufficient to effect hydrogenation of the coal. The benzene liquid effects an immediate quench and the hydrogenation products are collected and separated. The principal product of the hydrogenation is benzene. Unreacted coal and char may be recycled or subjected to gasification with steam and oxygen to produce synthesis gas which can be converted to methanol.