Ancient Israel Resources

Ancient Israel: An Internet Linked Unit Study

A Multilevel, Bible Focused, Heart of Wisdom Unit Study utilizing the Charlotte Mason Approach, and the Internet!

Three things must be held in common by a society in order for it to be a people: religion, education, and law. In all history, there is only one civilization that bases its religion, education, and law on Scripture-Israel. Christians should understand the relationship between us, the Bible, Israel, and the Jewish people. In Jesus' life, death, and resurrection is the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament). As we study how God has dealt redemptively with the Hebrews, our spiritual ancestors by faith, we gain insight into the plans and purposes of God. As we turn our attention to the Jewish roots of the Christian faith, we may reevaluate our beliefs and the realities of our faith for our every day life and deepen our personal walk and relationship with the Lord. Read more.

Our Father Abraham: Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith by Marvin R. Wilson

Although the roots of Christianity run deep into Hebrew soil, many Christians are regrettably uninformed about the rich Hebrew heritage of the church. This volume delineates the link between Judaism and Christianity, between Old and New Testaments, and calls Christians to examine their Hebrew roots. Upon completion of this book you will: Understand the importance of reading and interpreting Scripture from the context in which it was written; See the 66 books of the Bible telling the same story, not 39 books (Old Testament) telling one story, and 27 books (New Testament) telling another; Have a general understanding of the 1st Century believers and how Christianity became separate from Judaism. Paperback - 374 pages (April 1989)W.B. Eerdman's Pub. Co.; ASIN: 0802804233. Our Father Abraham is being made into a PBS Documentary Film. Click to read more about the PBS Documentary Film. Reading from this book recommended in several Units in History Volume I. Read more.

Ancient Israel : Its Life and Institutions by Roland De Vaux

Ancient Israel, by Roland de Vaux, now considered by many to be a modern classic, offers a fascinating, full-scale reconstruction of the social and religious life of Israel in Old Testament times. Paperback - 616 pages (March 1997) Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.; ISBN: 080284278X. Reading from this book recommended in several Units in Ancient History: Adam to Messiah. Advanced reading level.

Introduction to Jewish History: From Abraham to the Sages by Seymour Rossel

Highly recommended for the Ancient Israel unit. This book provides an effortless transition from childhood Bible tales to purposeful study of the Jewish past. Simple stories present the highlights of Jewish history from the age of the patriarchs to the destruction of the Second Temple, and from the Bar Kochba rebellion to the completion of the Talmud. Children will grasp the historical continuity essential to the development of a confident Jewish identity. Includes a handy, at-a-glance historical timeline. Illustrated with photographs and artwork. This was written for grades 4-6. However, most adults don't know these basics. This is a much needed clear, overview of Ancient Israel in chronological order.

Bible History : Old Testament by Alfred Edersheim

Grasping "the big picture" of God's story in the Old Testament helps readers understand the finer points of theology. And it is this "grasp of the big picture" that Alfred Edersheim offers in an unparalleled way. Since its original appearance in 1890, this work has encountered many rivals but no successors, and its relevance for the Christian faith has only been reinforced during the intervening decades. Henderickson Publishers' unique, newly typeset edition of the complete and unabridged work will be a milestone contribution to the libraries of believers. Hardcover Updated edition (September 1995) Hendrickson Publishers, Inc.; ISBN: 156563165X.

Click for online access to all seven volumes of this book.

365 Fascinating Facts About the Holy Land by Clarence M. Wagner

From general information about climate, culture, and customs, to concise information about Middle East politics, wars, and efforts for peace. (March 2000) New Leaf Pr; ISBN: 0892214899.

Ancient Israel : From Abraham to the Roman Destruction of the Temple by Hershel Shanks (Editor)

Many prestigious colleges and universities have adopted Ancient Israel for classroom use but it is written in an easy to understand language, easy enough for high school students. Chapters and authors: The Patriarchal Age; Israel in Egypt ; The Settlement in Canaan The United Monarchy; The Divided Monarchy; Exile and Return; The Age of Hellenism; Roman Domination. 1999. 378 pp.; 34 illus.; 10 color plates; 16 maps and charts. ISBN 1-880317-53-2, hardcover. ISBN 1-880317-54-0, paper. Reading from this book recommended in several Units in History Volume I. The quickest way to get this book is to order from the Biblical Archaeology Society Adult reading level.

Israel (Ancient Civilizations)

Students learn about Israel by participating in unique individual and group activites that help them make the connection between yesterday and today. Mapmaking lessons in civics and timelines keep students interested as they engage in meaningful lessons in culture and history. Matching charts. Paperback, Mcgraw Hill Learning (1997), ISBN: 0764701525. Secular. If you want a BIble focus program see Ancient Israel: An Internet Linked Unit Study.

Sketches of Jewish Social Life by Alfred Edersheim

Ever wonder what would it be like to have lived during the time of Jesus . . . to mingle with men and women of that period, see them in their homes and with their families, learn their habits and manners, and follow them in their ordinary life? This sequel to Edersheim's The Templewill take you there. It contains more than 50 illustrations, maps and photos! Chapters Include: Jews and Gentiles in "the Land"; Mothers, Daughters and Wives in Israel; Relation of the Pharisees to the Sadducees and the Essenes, and to the Gospel of Christ; The Worship of the Synagogue. (November 1994) Hendrickson Publishers, Inc.; ISBN: 156563005X.

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Christianity and Rabbinic Judaism: A Parallel History of their Origins Edited by Hershel Shanks with contributions by James H. Charlesworth

This parallel history of Judaism and Christianity presents both separate and integral accounts of the first six centuries in the development of both religions in one understandable volume. This book begins where its companion volume Ancient Israel ends. Chapters include: Palestinian and Diaspora Judaism in the First Century ; The Life of Jesus ; After the Crucifixion--Christianity through Paul; Judaism to the Mishnah: 135-220 C.E. ; The World of the Talmud: From the Mishnah to the Arab Conquest; Christianity from Constantine to the Arab Conquest; Christians and Jews in the First Six Centuries. Hardcover; 380 pp.; 50 black-and-white photographs; 2 illus.; 11 color plates. (November 1992) Biblical Archaeology Society; ISBN: 1880317036. Advanced reading level.

History Of Jewish People Volume 1: Second Temple Era by Rabbi Hersh Goldwurm

Based on a book that has become a standard text in Israel, it tells the story of the Jewish nation from the vantage point of the Jews themselves. Unsurprisingly these traditional sources are at variance with those of other peoples, just as Cornwallis' account of the American Revolution differs from Washington's, and Stalin's account of the cold war differs from Truman's. This volume covers the period from the Destruction of the First Temple to the Destruction of the Second, the era of the Second Commonwealth. It is a fascinating story. It includes some of the great names, famous miracles and heart-rending tragedies; Simeon the Just, the Maccabees, Yochanan ben Zakkai, Hillel; Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Vespasian; the heroic defense of Jerusalem and the heart break of its fall. The Second Temple era is a bridge between the glories of the First Commonwealth and the bitter exile that followed the second Destruction. It shows the Jewish people struggling to maintain its integrity in the face of foreign conquest and internal betrayal. it included the development of the Oral Law and Rabbinic leadership. In this sense, the agonizing years of the Second Commonwealth were a preparation for the dispersion and powerlessness of future exiles. The nation had learned to perpetuate itself despite a lack of independence, so it could persevere even in the ghettos and under the persecutions of the future. It could remain strong and rise again. There are those who say that Jewish history is a mosaic of invasion, defeat, and pogrom. It is much more. There is tenacity and courage here. There is idealism and loyalty. There is a stubborn insistence that scholarship, morality ,ethics and idealism are always relevant. This book is a valuable contribution to an understanding of the Jewish people and it is an exciting, inspiring, engrossing tale for every kind of reader. ISBN: 0-89906-455-8. Reading level 7th grade and up.

History Of Jewish People Volume 2: From Yavneh To Pumbedisa by Meir Holder Price

Nine centuries from the destruction of the Second Temple to the end of the Geonic period.

Israel—The Land and the People: An Evangelical Affirmation of God's Promises

Israel . . . one word that brings with it a flood of images and emotions. This long overdue book draws together the wisdom of 12 scholars (including a leader on the Jews for Jesus staff) to answer the question "Who is Israel today, and how is Israel different from the church?" Chapters Include: The Church's appropriation of Israel's blessings; A new covenant -- an eternal people; The land of Israel and the future return; A celebration of the Lord our God's role in the future of Israel. 348 pp, (December 1998) Kregel Publications; ISBN: 0825428793.

The Chronicles of the Jewish People by Raymond P. Scheindlin

A concise yet comprehensive presentation of the Jewish experience from legendary times to the present. Dr. Scheindlin, a rabbi and professor of medieval Hebrew literature at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, unfolds the history of the Jewish people while taking into account world events that have affected Jewish life and culture. Arranged chronologically, this large-format gift volume contains more than 150 full-color and black-and-white illustrations, photographs, and maps. (September 1996) Smithmark; ISBN: 0765199750.

A History of the Jews by Paul Johnson

A national bestseller, this brilliant 4000 year survey covers not only Jewish history but he impact of Jewish genius and imagination on the world. The author (a Christian) delivers a brilliant and comprehensive one-volume survey covering 4,000 years of Jewish history. His book is a forceful and sustained analysis of Jewish emergence and an interpretation of how Jewish history, philosophy, ethics, and social and political notions interplay with world history. (September 1988) HarperCollins (paper); ISBN: 0060915331. Chapter One "Israelites" is available online.

The Gifts of the Jews: How a Tribe of Desert Nomads Changed the way Everyone Thinks and Feels by Thomas Cahill

Thomas Cahill, author of the bestselling How the Irish Saved Civilization, continues his Hinges of History series with The Gifts of the Jews, a light-handed, popular account of ancient Jewish culture, the culture of the Bible. The book is written from a decidedly modern point of view. Cahill notes, for instance, that Abraham moved the Jews from Ur to the land of Canaan "to improve their prospects," and that the leering inhabitants of Sodom surrounded Lot's lodging "like the ghouls in Night of the Living Dead." The Gifts of the Jews nonetheless encourages us to see the Old Testament through ancient eyes--to see its characters not as our contemporaries but as those of Gilgamesh and Amenhotep. Cahill also lingers on often-overlooked books of the Bible, such as Ruth, to discuss changes in ancient sensibility. The result is a fine, speculative, eminently readable work of history. Note that Cahill's audience is secular society not Biblical Christianity. (September 1999) Anchor Books; ISBN: 0385482493. Adult reading level.

The Young Reader's Encyclopedia of Jewish History Ilana Shamir (Editor) Shlomo Shavit (Editor)

Currently out of print but worth a trip to the library. An excellent overview of Jewish history, beginning approximately 5,000 years before the birth of Christ and ending with the present time. The perspective is a historical one; Biblical events are carefully labeled ``according to the Bible'' or ``it is said.'' Nothing is delved into in any great depth, but just about every name and place of importance is mentioned. The format is excellent; the text is concise and well organized; and the supplemental graphic material, including color repro ductions, maps, and diagrams, is superb and is consistently clearly labeled and well integrated into the text. Plenty of white space and a large type face makes brows ing easy on the eye, but the well-written text invites a thorough reading. A time line summarizes the text and places Jew ish history in the context of general world history. An excellent illustrated glossary and an index round out the volume. Easy usage will encourage young researchers, and perhaps will inspire them to look fur ther for more information on specific sub jects. Micki S. Nevett, Temple Beth Emeth Library, Albany, N.Y. (From School Library Journal)

This volume is organized into 28 chapters. Each is about four pages long, from a discussion of early nomadic tribes to an assessment of contemporary international Jewry. Examples of other topics include the Babylonian exile, Jewish life in early Christian Europe and in the Ottoman Empire, Messianism during the Middle Ages, the rise of Zionism, the Holocaust, the Sinai Campaignand Yom Kippur War, and problems of Jews in the Eastern Bloc. Ages 10 and up. 300 photographs, maps, charts, and drawings.

A Historical Atlas of the Jewish People : From the Time of the Patriarchs to the Present by Eli Barnavi (Editor)

[This is] one of those rare books that can literally make a reader gasp with delight and horror. It may even be the best one-volume history of Judaism in print. Beginning with "The Migrations of the Patriarchs," and continuing to the present day, the book's chapters include historical maps, timelines, illustrations and photographs, and narrative essays by leading historians (such as Moshe Idel) that help readers not only understand but visualize the movements of the Jewish people. The editors have chosen not to structure the story as leading inexorably to the Holocaust and the rise of Israel, although both events are covered in some detail. Instead, they have depicted the rich variety of lives established by the Diaspora in such far-flung places as China and England, and have been equally attentive to the joys and triumphs of Jews, both in everyday life and in national cultures, as to the considerable tragedies Jews have endured. The text of this book is smart and readable, but the real joy of the atlas is its illustrations, many of which are rarely seen, such as 20th-century artist Abel Pann's depiction of the creation of Adam, "He breathed into his nostrils the breath of life." It's the kind of image that reminds you that life really is a gift, and makes you savor it. --Michael Joseph Gross (January 1995) Schocken Books; ISBN: 0805241272.

The Atlas of Jewish History by Martin Gilbert by Eli Barnavi (Editor)
This atlas traces the history, the worldwide migrations, the achievements, and the lives of the Jewish people from ancient Mesopotamia to the present day. It is the product of remarkable research and sheds a vivid light on the role of the Jews in their different national settings, their complex history, their reaction to persecution--whether by dispersal, acceptance, or defense--and their enormous contribution to human experience in many fields over almost four thousand years. The atlas illustrates the enterprise and normalities of Jewish life as well as the perpetual and irrational violence that has pursued Jews in every century and to almost every corner of the globe. In this revised edition, The Atlas of Jewish History has been brought up to the present day. Filled with unusual facts and details, the atlas offers new appreciation and understanding of the crucial role played by a people in the making of the modern world. (January 1993) William Morrow & Co; ISBN: 0688122647.

Chronicle of the Old Testament Kings: The Reign-By-Reign Record of the Rulers of Ancient Israel by J.W. Rogerson

The story of ancient Israel's rulers, from Abraham to Herod, encompasses some of the greatest events and most powerful personalities in history. Covering a span of 1,500 years, Chronicle of the Old Testament Kings charts all the leaders of Israel from the Ancestors--the physical and spiritual founders of the nation--through the united monarchy under David and Solomon, to the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, Persian and Greek rule and, finally, Roman domination. The first founders of the nation (such as David, Solomon, and Moses) and the prophets who first judged their leadership (such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Elijah) are brought vividly to life, with lavish color maps, time lines, photographs of archaeological treasures, and reproductions of later artists' imaginative renderings of each figure. Coffee table book. (October 1999) Thames & Hudson; ISBN: 0500050953.

Families in Ancient Israel (Family, Religion, and Culture) by Leo G. Perdue (Editor), Joseph Blenkinsopp (Editor)

Four top-notch scholars of the Hebrew Bible and early Judaism provide a clear portrait of the family in ancient Israel. The book then draws important theological and ethical implications for the family today. The meaning of biblical discourse about the family can be recovered only when one sees how that discourse functioned within specific social and cultural contexts. The authors show families exhibit both continuity and change over the 14 or so centuries the books cover. Authors strive to show how biblical perspectives should influence the structure and functioning of actual modern families by demonstrating how social, cultural and economic factors shaped the lives of actual ancient families and, in turn, how the realities of life in ancient families contributed to the various theological perspectives that come to expression in the Bible. "The household was the theological lens, the ethical paradigm, the human context for understanding the character and activity of God and for living out moral responsibilities to others." Thus the "household" provided a crucial model or template for reflecting about God and God's relationship to God's people. (May 1997) Westminster John Knox Pr; ISBN: 0664255671.

Survey of Israel's History, A by Leon James Wood

Since its first publication in 1970, A Survey of Israel's History has established itself as a popular and useful text in Bible colleges and seminaries. This revision by David O'Brien, which brings A Survey of Israel's History up to date, is certain to add to its value and continue its popularity. A chapter on the Intertestamental Period has been added. Numerous line-maps, charts, and diagrams help to clarity details. An extensive chronological chart provides an overall summary of names and dates. (From the Publisher).

Manners and Customs in the Bible by Victor Harold Matthews

Lots of questions crop up when you read the Bible. For answers, you need insight into the Bible's culture, its people and how they lived. What people wore, what they ate, what they built, how they exercised justice, how they mourned, how they viewed family and legal customs all are "manners and customs" and all vary from period to period throughout Israel's history. Fortunately, this book is a lot more than just nice pictures – although there are a lot of those, too. Each chapter furnishes an introduction to the political and physical setting of the period in Israel's history and outlines the basic structure of its social world. Then specific scenes drawn from the biblical text are studied in a way that sheds light on the daily life of the people of that time – extra biblical sources and archaeological data as well as the biblical text itself-Dr. Matthews helps the reader to see the ancient world of Israel as never before. Once seen in this way, it will never look the same again. Paperback - 283 pages Rev edition (September 1993) Hendrickson Publishers, Inc.; ISBN: 0943575818.

The Jews in the Time of Jesus: A History by Peter Connolly

The teachings of Jesus, his life story, his relationships, the things that were said of him by early Christians - all are best understood against the backdrop of Jesus' own time and place. Understanding Jewish life in the first century will help us better understand Jesus' mission and how it relates to our own religious concerns today. The Jews in the Time of Jesus is ideal for classroom use and for anyone who is interested in understanding the Jewish roots of Christianity. A useful historical resource. Paperback Reprint edition (March 1995) Oxford Univ Pr (Trade); ISBN: 0199101620. Reading level: Ages 9-12.

Education in Ancient Israel: Across the Deadening Silence by James L. Crenshaw

Going to school takes on a whole new meaning in this detailed study of education in biblical times. In this groundbreaking new book, distinguished scholar James L. Crenshaw investigates both the pragmatic hoes and the philosophical whys of education in ancient Israel and its surroundings. Knowledge was gained, according to Ecclesiastes and Proverbs, not only by patient observation and listening, but through communication with Wisdom, the feminine incarnation of the Divine. Drawing upon a broad range of sources, Crenshaw explores this religious dimension of education in ancient Israel, demonstrating how the practice of teaching and learning was transformed into the supreme act of worship.320 pages 1 Ed edition (September 15, 1998) Doubleday; ISBN: 0385468911.

From Mesopotamia to Modernity : Ten Introductions to Jewish History and Literature

introduction to both Jewish history and literature from its earliest times up to the present. Leading experts in each field of Jewish history and literature contribute original and comprehensive essays introducing their subjects. These introductory essays cover most major aspects of Jewish studies from the Bible and its time up to modern Judaism. Each essay covers the basic field, be it in a given era of Jewish history or in a defined area of Jewish literature. Suggestions for further reading will assist the reader in moving beyond this volume to explore a given area in further detail. The introductions range from encyclopedic detail through elegiac essay and enthusiastic appreciation of the field considered.Paperback (July 1999) Westview Press; ISBN: 0813367174

Jerusalem: Footsteps Through Time by Ahron Horovits

There's more than one way to tour Jerusalem! This is a different kind of tour guide-a spectacular look at Jerusalem's old city that makes the words of Scripture come alive. Walk in the footsteps of Avraham, Look in on the camp of David in his conquest of Yevus, build the Temple with King Solomon-it's all here. Visit more recent history as well-relive the miraculous Six Day War by visiting the sites where major battles took place. Replete with hundreds of photographs, illustrations and detailed maps, and precise instructions to ensure that you don't miss a single detail. This is a book that you can take with you to the actual sites or read at your leisure. A much-appreciated gift for a special occasion. In attractive "coffee-table" format.

Jerusalem

It is one of the most beautiful cities on earth, and one of the most resilient. Razed and rebuilt countless times since the dawn of civilization, it is the birthplace of Christianity, the spiritual home of Judaism, and the site Mohammed visited in a dream before ascending to heaven. Travel back in history as JERUSALEM takes you on a once-in-a-lifetime tour of this holy city. Renowned historian Martin Gilbert guides us through thirty centuries of incredible events, from the dawn of civilization to the latest developments in the Arab-Israeli peace talks. The city's sweeping drama and enduring beauty are captured in the most comprehensive series on Jerusalem ever filmed. Now available on home video in the History Channel Store.

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