Biblical Archaeology

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Biblical archaeology involves the recovery and scientific investigation of the material remains of past cultures that can illuminate the periods and descriptions in the Bible, be they from the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) or from the New Testament, as well as the history and cosmogony of Judaism and Christianity.

Overview

Biblical archaeology encompasses archaeological investigations of cultures and peoples described in Jewish and Christian religious texts (including the Old Testament, Apocrypha, and New Testaments) from roughly 3200 BCE. It combines archaeological investigations with textual analysis to aid in understanding everyday life and events from the time.

A famous example of historical analysis combining biblical texts with archaeology is the inclusion of domestic camels in the biblical depictions of Abraham. Discrepancies between the date when camels first appear at archaeological sites and the supposed dates of Abraham's life have led to debates about when the stories were first recorded and the degree of later editing that may have occurred since they were originally composed, either in written or oral form.

The principal location of interest is what is known in the relevant religions as the Holy Land, which from a Western perspective is also called the Middle East. In contrast, Near Eastern archaeology deals with the Ancient Near East, or Middle East, without giving any special consideration to whether its discoveries have any relationship with the Bible.

Introduction

circa 1800 CE-

Definition
There's no universal definition of the term, although, in its modern iteration the term Biblical Archaeology is defined as the study of material record of cultures, places, people and events in the context of archaeology that contributed in the formation of Biblical texts.

Concept
The modern concept of biblical archaeology stems from the belief that archaeological discoveries can provide valuable insights into the world of the Bible, confirming, clarifying, or challenging biblical narratives. Scholars in this field utilize various archaeological methods, including excavation, survey, and analysis of artifacts, to explore sites mentioned in the Bible or relevant to biblical history.

Approches
Historically, there have been two approaches or vantage points to the field of Biblical Archaeology.

First, in the early to mid-19th century CE when the field was still in its infancy, the main focus of the expeditions was to confirm the history and historicity of the Bible. This meant (generally not always) to read something in the Bible and try to find something that resembles the texts. During this period the expeditions were usually funded by religious institutions.

Second, in the mid twentieth century CE, a new methodology developed that looked at the archaeological and historical record and studied its relation to the Bible and Biblical texts. During this period, a more systematic approach was refined and the financing of the activities moved from religious institutions to the educational institutions (universities and colleges etc). More and more scholars are adopting this style of study.

Relation to Other Fields of Study
Biblical archaeology often intersects with other disciplines, such as anthropology, history, and linguistics, to interpret archaeological findings within their cultural, social, and religious contexts. While biblical archaeology aims to illuminate the past, it also prompts discussions and debates about the interpretation of evidence and its implications for understanding ancient civilizations and the development of religious traditions and the relation among them.

Notable Archaeologists and Scholars

William F. Albright
Renowned as the "father of biblical archaeology," Albright's work laid the foundation for modern biblical archaeology. His excavations in the Levant provided significant insights into the historical context of the Bible's narratives.

Kathleen Kenyon
A pioneering archaeologist, Kenyon's excavations at Jericho and Jerusalem set new standards for archaeological methodology and contributed substantially to understanding biblical history. Her excavation at Jericho challenged traditional views and methods in archaeology, and her meticulous work contributed greatly to understanding the history of ancient Israel and the biblical narratives associated with it.<

Yigael Yadin
Known for his discoveries at Masada and other sites in Israel, Yadin's work illuminated aspects of Jewish history and the events described in the Hebrew Bible.

William G. Dever
A prominent figure in biblical archaeology, Dever's excavations and publications have advanced the understanding of ancient Israelite history and culture. His work has focused on debunking myths and misconceptions while emphasizing the importance of archaeological evidence.

Amihai Mazar
Known for his excavations at Tel Rehov and other sites, Mazar's research has contributed significantly to understanding the Iron Age history of Israel and its connections to biblical narratives.


Geographical Regions: Countries

Featured Article Seal of King Hezekiah

This seal impression, called a bulla, was found (2015 CE) in a cache together with 33 other seals, figurines and ceramics, inside a collapsed building adjacent to Temple Mount that Jerusalemite archaeologist Eilat Mazar had already deemed to have had an administrative function. The oval impression on the clay seal, which was most likely set in a ring, states in ancient Hebrew script: "Belonging to Hezekiah [son of] Ahaz king of Judah." It also shows a two-winged sun, with wings turned downward, flanked by two ankh symbols symbolizing life.

Seal of Hezekiah / Explore Jerusalem Ophel

Notable Organizations and Institutions

Biblical Archaeology Society
The Biblical Archaeology Society (BAS), established in 1974 CE by American lawyer Hershel Shanks, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to information about archaeology in the Bible lands. Its current publications include the Biblical Archaeology Review, whilst previously circulating the Bible Review and Archaeology Odyssey. The Biblical Archaeology Society has gained global traction, not only through its popular publication The Biblical Archaeology Review, yet through its involvement in multiple authenticity scandals.

Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology
The Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology is a renowned institution dedicated to the study and exploration in the field of biblical archaeology, located in Jerusalem. Founded with the vision of advancing research and understanding of biblical history and archaeology, the institute plays a vital role in uncovering evidence that sheds light on the narratives and characters depicted in the Bible. Led by esteemed biblical archaeologist Dr. Mazar, the institute conducts excavations, research projects, and educational programs aimed at illuminating the ancient world as it relates to biblical texts. Through its initiatives, the Armstrong Institute seeks to bridge the gap between archaeology and biblical scholarship, providing valuable insights into the historical contexts of biblical events and civilizations. With its commitment to rigorous academic inquiry and dissemination of knowledge, the institute stands at the forefront of biblical archaeology, contributing significantly to our understanding of the ancient Near East and its relevance to biblical narratives.

See Also

References

Recommended Readings

Unearthing the Bible (Titus Kennedy)

Unearthing the Bible

From the earliest tablets of creation to artifacts connected with the life and resurrection of Jesus, Unearthing the Bible shows you can be confident there is an abundance of archaeological support for the history told in the Scriptures. Using this visual guide, you can find context for your faith as you make your way through the Bible.
See on Amazon

Excavating the Evidence for Jesus

Excavating the Evidence for Jesus

Excavating the Evidence for Jesus progresses chronologically through the Gospels, noting the many relevant archaeological, historical, geographic, and literary findings. As you read, you’ll be able to decide for yourself whether the evidence confirms the existence and story of Jesus, and determine whether the Gospels are worthy...
See on Amazon

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