内容简介
This is a fascinating exploration of the most influential collection of writings in Western history. By placing the events and people described in the Bible into their social and geographic context, it seeks to provide new insights into the *ures and illuminate a truly significant period in the development of Western civilization. The book begins by looking at the early history of the Near East, showing how climatic and geographic factors helped to shape the distribution and development of human populations in the region. There then follows chapters on the archaeology and history of the Bible, explaining the different texts that make up the Bible and detailing the important archaeological finds that have shed light on these ancient writings. With the scene set, the book proceeds to explore the historical background of many of the key events and people described in the Bible. There are chapters on the Exodus, Solomon, King David, the prophet Elijah, Jesus's birth, ministry, and death, and much more. It ends with a look at the holy land today and a timeline showing the key events that shaped the region.