The Cultural World of the Bible

Introduction

Reconstructing Israel's Social World from Context
Development of Biblical Literature
Historical Geography of Bible Lands
Approach of This Book
Discussing Aspects of Everyday Life in Ancient Israel

1. Ancestral Period

Historical Introduction
Physical Appearance and Fashion
Cultural Issues Faced by Immigrants
Herding Practices
Food Preparation and Diet
Marriage Customs
Religious Practices
Legal Customs
Weapons and Warfare

2. Exodus-Settlement Period

Historical Introduction
Village Life
Agricultural Methods and Tools
Weapons and Warfare
Social Organization and Administration of Law
Family Life
Religious Practices

3. Monarchic Period

Historical Introduction
The Israelite City
Social Life
Health Issues
Law
Religious Practices
Weapons and Warfare

4. Exile and Return

Historical Introduction
Life in the Diaspora
Life after the Return from Exile
Religious Life in the Diaspora, Yehud, and Samaria

5. Intertestamental and New Testament Periods

Historical Introduction
Background to Hellenism: The Persian Period
The Rise of Hellenism: Alexander and the Diadochoi
Temporary Independence: The Hasmonean Kingdom
Last Glimpses of Power: The Herods
Roman Rule and Jewish Protest: The First Jewish Revolt

A Final Chapter: Bar Kochba and Diasporic Judaism
Social Life
Economic Life
Religious Life

Glossary

Indexes