Ancient Israel did not emerge within a vacuum but rather came to exist alongside various peoples, including Canaanites, Egyptians, and Philistines. Indeed, Israel’s very proximity to these groups has made it difficult—until now—to distinguish the archaeological traces of early Israel and other contemporary groups. Through an analysis of the results from recent excavations in light of relevant historical and later biblical texts, this book proposes that it is possible to identify these peoples and trace culturally or ethnically defined boundaries in the archaeological record. Features of late second-millennium B.C.E. culture are critically examined in their historical and biblical contexts in order to define the complex social boundaries of the early Iron Age and reconstruct the diverse material world of these four peoples. Of particular value to scholars, archaeologists, and historians, this volume will also be a standard reference and resource for students and other readers interested in the emergence of early Israel.

This full-colour volume offers an overview of the history and findings of biblical archaeology. Drawing together the archaeological research into the principal sites in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Palestine, Persia, Anatolia, Greece and Italy, Hoerth and McRay explore the histories, cultures and social forces of these early civilizations. Using full-colour maps, photographs and diagrams to walk you through the various archaeological digs. This volume enables the reader to place the biblical narratives firmly in their historical context and cultural setting. The authoritative but accessible text brings familiar Bible characters brilliantly to life.

For the past 200 years archaeological work has provided new information that allows us to peer into the past and open chapters of human history that have not been read for centuries, or even millennia. In The Archaeology of the Bible James K. Hoffmeier provides the reader with an incisive account of archaeology's role in shaping our understanding of the biblical texts. Fundamental issues addressed throughout include how archaeological discoveries relate to biblical accounts, and the compatibility of using scientific disciplines to prove or disprove a religious book such as the Bible. This work is an ideal introduction to the societies and events of the Ancient Near East and their relation to our interpretation of the Bible.

"We gain encouragement and helpful background to Scripture in studying the land of the Bible (the "fifth gospel"). Archaeologist and biblical scholar John Currid overviews areas of inquiry and discovery"--

"In this book William Dever addresses the question that must guide every good historian of ancient Israel: What was life really like in those days? Writing as an expert archaeologist who is also a secular humanist, Dever relies on archaeological data, over and above the Hebrew Bible, for primary source material. He focuses on the lives of ordinary people in the eighth century B.C.E. - not kings, priests, or prophets - people who left behind rich troves of archaeological information but who are practically invisible in "typical" histories of ancient Israel."--Résumé de l'éditeur.

Over 101 discoveries and people mentioned in the Bible (OT & NT) are treated in the book that have been confirmed by extra-biblical archaeological evidence from ancient writers, pottery, stelae, inscriptions, bullae (and seals), coins, and other artifacts. The top image on the front cover background is one of the panels of the black obelisk held in the British Museum that is one of the few depictions of an Israelite king. It is of King Jehu, offering tribute to the Assyrian king Shalmaneser III and named on the obelisk. The marble bust of Emperor Tiberius (Luke 3:1) from the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Selçuk, Turkey is evident in the left hand corner, and is depicted and named on many coins (Matt 22:15-22; Mark 12:13-17; Luke 20:20-26). The bottom coin is of emperor Nero (Acts 25-26; 28:19; Rev 13; 17) and is impressed with his name. The top of the spine has the image of the reproduction of the bronze Shema Seal discovered at Megiddo in 1904 depicting the roaring lion as the symbol of Judah and the name of Jeroboam (1 Kgs 12-14). The inscriptions read "(Belonging) to Shema [top line] (the) Servant (of) Jeroboam [bottom line]." The book will include over 210 photos, charts and maps. I provide photographs of the discovery, translation of the source and a detailed bibliography for each name.

“A much-needed resource for those serious about biblical studies.” —Mark M. Yarbrough, president, Dallas Theological Seminary The Bible has long been dismissed as a book of myths, legends, fairy tales, and propaganda. Yet when we examine the archaeological evidence, its accuracy comes to light. In Unearthing the Bible, Dr. Titus M. Kennedy presents 101 objects that provide compelling evidence for the historical reliability of Scripture from the dawn of civilization through the early church. Gathered from more than 50 museums, private collections, and archaeological sites, these pieces not only reinforce the reliability of the biblical narratives, but also provide rich cultural insights into the ancient world. Using this visual guide, you can find context for your faith as you make your way through the Bible. Dr. Kennedy’s photographs and detailed descriptions enable you to examine each piece of fascinating evidence for yourself. From the earliest tablets of creation to artifacts connected with the life and resurrection of Jesus, Unearthing the Bible shows you can be confident there is an abundance of archaeological support for the history told in the Scriptures.