The Religions of Ancient Israel

Publisher Description

A far-reaching interdisciplinary investigation into the religion of ancient Israel. The author draws on textual readings, archaeological and historical data and epigraphy to determine what is known about the Israelite religions during the Iron Age (1200-586 BCE). The evidence is synthesized within the structure of an Israelite worldview and ethos involving kin, tribes, land, traditional ways and places of worship, and a national deity. This interpretive matrix has originated through insights, ideas, and models developed in the academic study of religion and history within the context of the humanities. The author shows how much of the Psalter was composed in praise of deities other than Yahweh. Through his book, the author encourages dialogue and co-operative study between all ancient historians and archaeologists, but particularly between Iron Age archaeologists and biblical scholars. The work challenges many conclusions of previous scholarship about the nature of the Israelites' religion.