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. The archaeological remains from the Ancient Near East in particular can produce valuable information that improves our understanding of the Bible. 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.
Following an overview of archaeological techniques and usage in biblical interpretation, the author takes us through the Old and New Testaments and examines archaeological evidence that underpins certain biblical themes and narratives. 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.
Interspersed with boxed features that provide more detail on geographical settings, cultural practices and biblical narratives, The Archaeology of the Bible is an ideal introduction to the societies and events of the Ancient Near East and how they affect our interpretation of the Bible.
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johnbattle (verified owner) –
If you’re looking for an attractive, well balanced survey of biblical archaeology by a recognized expert, this volume would serve your purpose well. James Hoffmeier is an experienced archaeologist, specializing in the region of Egypt where the Israelites lived and through which they traversed to the Holy Land. Hoffmeier, unlike many modern minimalists, takes historical texts seriously, whether from the Bible or from Egyptian or other sources. While he teaches at a Christian institution and holds to an evangelical view of the Bible, he openly points out where the biblical record is strongly attested by archaeology and where that record has difficulties. He makes it clear that we do not presently have all the data, and probably never will; therefore, he says, we need to suspend judgment in some cases. The book is well organized with an introduction to archaeology and its practice in the biblical lands. He then goes chronologically through the major periods of Israel’s history and the times of the early church, showing the important archaeological discoveries that help to explain or illuminate the biblical text. Since his specialty is in the archaeology of the Egyptian settlement and exodus of Israel, his contributions in these chapters are especially interesting. He supports the so-called late date for the exodus. The materials he includes for the study of the united and divided monarchy of Israel are especially strong and well illustrated. The chapters on the New Testament trace the major locations and artifacts for the life of Jesus, the early Judean church, and the cities of Paul. Since the book is fairly recent, it includes major recent discoveries that further illumine the biblical narrative, including continuing debate on the Shroud of Turin and an interesting discussion on the disputed ossuary of James the brother of Jesus. The Archaeology of the Bible is printed on high quality glossy paper, and the photography and graphics are excellent, making this book a good choice for a class or Bible study. Hoffmeier manages to cover a lot of material in fewer than 200 pages, and consequently many items are mentioned without much detail. This is a necessary tradeoff, and can be overcome by looking online for more details on any particular item. A helpful index makes looking up any particular city or event or artifact easy. I recommend this book for anyone interested in biblical history or archaeology, especially to see the broad sweep of archaeology’s contribution to the study of the Bible.