Synopses & Reviews
The Bible is often best understood when it is properly placed in the cultural and social context in which it was written. To this end, this extensive reference explores the culture of the Israelites and the ancient nations that surrounded and influenced them. The time periods covered include the Bronze Age of Palestine; the Age of Empires; the Dawn of the Modern World; and the history, cultures, and beliefs of such civilizations as the Canaanites, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, ancient Greeks and ancient Romans. Comprehensive and enlightening, this is a thorough history that is ideal for both Biblical studies and general historians.
Synopsis
The authors of the 66 books of the Bible reflect the social, cultural and religious contexts in which they lived. Understanding these contexts can greatly enrich and deepen our appreciation of the Bible's meaning and message. In this splendid illustrated book, John Drane provides an unparalleled survey of the many different worlds which helped to forge the pages of the Bible. He ranges over thousands of years from the earliest hunter-gatherers to the Roman world in Jesus' day. Areas covered include courtly and military structures, home life, social and economic relationships and ritual and cultural practices. Beautifully illustrated throughout, this book will enable the reader to approach the Bible with fresh insight, understanding and appreciation.
About the Author
John Drane is a professor of New Testament at the Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, and the author of several books, including After McDonaldization, Introducing the Bible, Introducing the New Testament, and Introducing the Old Testament.