MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS

Biblical Archaeology Review, January/February 2019

As the days grow shorter and colder, think of warmer regions and times with our 2019 Digs Issue! Read about excavation opportunities in 2019 throughout the lands of the Bible, learn what life is like on a dig, and discover a “Biblical” tell in the middle of the U.S. Then journey to the site of Azekah in modern Israel to explore its last days as a Canaanite city and to Tall Jalul in Jordan to explore who lived at this ancient site, which might be Biblical Heshbon or Bezer. Join us on a survey of ancient Israelite seals to examine a military title that has been misinterpreted for decades, learn how ancient Jewish interpreters viewed the characters of Abraham and Lot, and see some artifacts that belonged to ancient Greek celebrities. All this and more is packed into the January/February 2019 issue of Biblical Archaeology Review.

Visit us online at Bible History Daily to see the latest news in Biblical archaeology, as well as additional articles and videos about key Bible and archaeology topics, including anecdotes from our 2018 BAS Dig Scholarship recipients. After hearing their stories, you yourself may be interested in excavating this summer. Use our guide to find the dig that is the perfect fit for you! Be sure to explore the BAS Library, which features every article ever published in BAR, Bible Review and Archaeology Odyssey, all footnoted articles in BAR Notables and Special Collections of articles curated by BAS editors, including one about Egyptian history and its relationship with the Bible.

Features

Digs 2019: A Day in the Life

By Robert R. Cargill

When the alarm clock blares at 4 a.m., it’s time to get up and start the dig day. Join BAR Editor Robert R. Cargill in his trademark tie-dye shirt as he walks you through a typical day in the life of an archaeological dig participant. It’s always grueling but never dull. And find out what excavation opportunities are available in the Holy Land this summer!

The Last Days of Canaanite Azekah

By Oded Lipschits, Sabine Kleiman, Ido Koch, Karl Berendt, Vanessa Linares, Sarah Richardson, Manfred Oeming, and Yuval Gadot

Excavations at Late Bronze Age Tel Azekah reveal various aspects of daily life in this Canaanite city, including its close interactions with Egypt. The gruesome discovery of four human skeletons poses questions about the final days of Azekah and how those dramatic events might be related to the Bronze Age collapse of Mediterranean civilizations.

Commander of the Fortress?

Understanding an Ancient Israelite Military Title

By William M. Schniedewind

From Tel Arad to Kuntillet ‘Ajrud to Jerusalem, Biblical scholar William M. Schniedewind guides BAR readers on a survey of ancient Israelite seals and inscriptions with an enigmatic title that has been variously translated “Governor of the City” and “Commander of the Fortress.” Who was this figure? Discover his importance and place in ancient Israelite and Judahite society.

The Legend of Tel Achzib, Arkansas

By Dale W. Manor

Excavations are underway at Tel Achzib—meaning “ruin of deception”—in Searcy, Arkansas. Created by archaeologists at Harding University, this artificial tell serves as a Biblical archaeology lab that introduces students to excavation technique and methodology. Especially for students unable to travel and dig in the Biblical lands, Tel Achzib offers a valuable, informative, and fun experience.

Departments

First Person: A Little Jot on a Jerusalem Column

By Robert R. Cargill

Classical Corner: Phidias and Pericles: Hold My Wine

By Diane Harris Cline

Biblical Views: Safeguarding Abraham

By Dan Rickett

Archaeological Views: Tall Jalul: A Look from Behind the Jordan

By Constance Gane

Strata

“Aramaic Comics” Decorate Roman Tomb in Jordan
Another Lod Mosaic
Then and Now: A Slice of Ancient Life
Golden Earring from Jerusalem
What Is It?
Two Readers Meet at a BAR
Who Did It?
Exhibit Watch
Cartoon Caption Contest

Reviews

King David’s Stronghold at Khirbet Qeiyafa?
In the Footsteps of King David: Revelations from an Ancient Biblical City
Reviewed by Aren M. Maeir

Authors

Worldwide

Queries & Comments