Shadows and Solid Things - by Kristofer B Zimmitti (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Archaeology began in an era when many people read ancient religious texts literally, believing that what was described on the page corresponded to a material reality that existed beneath the soil. With a shovel in one hand and a sacred text in the other, early archaeologists sought confirmation in concrete evidence. In the process, they opened themselves to the disturbing possibility that they would find nothing--or, perhaps even more unsettling, discover evidence that would challenge their cherished beliefs.

Using accounts of excavations in Italy, Egypt, Iraq, and Palestine, Kristofer B. Zimmitti explores the tensions between science and religion, faith and reason. As archaeology grew more popular during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, excavations from Herculaneum to Babylon and discoveries such as the Moabite Stone transformed the modern understanding of the ancient past for Protestants, Catholics, Jews, Muslims, and Latter-day Saints. While some archaeological findings confirmed the truth of ancient texts, others threatened to overturn them. Rather than abandon or question their faith, many believers kept digging. When the dust of excavation had settled, today's religious world had been forged.

Review Quotes

"An important reframing of previous North American cultural assumptions of the Bible--and a pleasure to read!"--David D. Grafton, author of An American Biblical Orientalism: The Construction of Jews, Christians, and Muslims in Nineteenth-Century American Evangelical Piety

"At once erudite and fun to read, Shadows and Solid Things delivers deep scholarship and literary grace at the same time!"--Heather J. Sharkey, author of A History of Muslims, Christians, and Jews in the Middle East

About the Author

Kristofer B. Zimmitti is a scholar of religion and history who works in colleges and congregations.