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 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. This book will enable the reader to approach the Bible with fresh insight, understanding and appreciation.