Archaeological discoveries can shed a flood of light on the biblical text, and this heavily illustrated resource offers the most up-to-date, comprehensive, and illuminating archaeological information related to the Old Testament.
The most important contributions of archaeology to biblical studies, according to Hoerth, are the various ways it illuminates the cultural and historical setting for the Bible, adds to our knowledge of the people, places, things, and events in the Bible, and its aid to translation and exegesis of biblical passages. Hoerth surveys the entire Old Testament, pointing out the relevant archaeological material and explaining how it enriches biblical studies. In an attempt to bridge the Old and New Testament worlds, the author devotes the final chapter to examining the intertestamental period.
Hoerth's volume presents the results of scholarly research, including the most recent archaeological discoveries, yet it remains readable. It boasts over 250 illustrative items: charts, photographs, line drawings, and maps. In addition, it includes a helpful index and bibliography.
