The Case for Biblical Archaeology - by John D Currid (Paperback)

About the Book

"We gain encouragement and helpful background to Scripture in studying the land of the Bible (the "fifth gospel"). Archaeologist and biblical scholar John Currid overviews areas of inquiry and discovery"--

Book Synopsis

For many today, history holds little application to modern existence, and so many are biblically and historically uninformed. Archaeology--the systematic study of the material remains of human behavior in the past--provides a helpful corrective on these two fronts. The Bible can be understood without the use of outside sources and does not need to be proved. Yet archaeologist and professor John Currid shows how his field of study plays its part in restoring our understanding of ancient life and events. He gives background on the geography of the land of the Bible and a history of its excavation; describes archaeological sites throughout the land; and introduces discoveries connected to agriculture, architecture, ceramics, burial practices, and more. This introduction can be used by students as well as anyone interested in deepening their knowledge of the land of the Bible and the insights archaeology gives us on Scripture.

Review Quotes

"In his Excavating the Land of the Bible: An Introduction to the Archaeology of the Old Testament, John D. Currid provides a thorough and readable introduction to the discipline of archaeology and its impact on the study of the Old Testament. "The work is divided into three parts. The first part comprises chapters that cover a general introduction to the geography and topography of the land of the Bible, a general introduction to the history of the field of archaeology as it relates to the ancient Near East, the nature of biblical tells and their excavation, and a brief survey of the history of the lands of the Bible from the earliest times about which archaeology can provide information to the beginning of the Babylonian exile. "The second part explores the land of biblical Israel in more detail, with separate chapters on each of the main geographical regions of Palestine that treat their most important archaeological sites. The third major part of the book provides the reader with an overview of the results of archaeology as they relate to some key features of the culture of Israel in the Old Testament period. These chapters are particularly valuable because they provide concise but readable overviews of a number of topics, such as agriculture and burial practices, about which good introductory treatments are hard to come by. "Several features of the book make it especially well suited for use as a textbook for an introductory course on biblical archaeology or a seminary-level general introductory course to the Old Testament. The main text is supplemented by several appendices that provide historical and chronological information and a glossary of terms used in archaeological literature. Among the appendices is a summary of extrabiblical references to the kings of Israel and Judah that both students and teachers of the Bible will find helpful in setting the biblical accounts in their proper historical context. In addition, most sections conclude with a list of key terms, a number of discussion questions, and suggestions for further reading that will enable students to pursue more in-depth study of topics of interest, and that teachers can use as the basis of additional assignments as needed. "In its breadth, its readability, and its organization, Excavating the Land of the Bible provides a valuable resource to pastors, teachers, and students who would like to learn about the real world of biblical archaeology and the myriad ways that it has cast light on our understanding of the world of the Bible in the Old Testament period."--David L. Adams, Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology (Old Testament), Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

"In some respects, this book is a needed update to Dr. Currid's Doing Archaeology in the Land of the Bible, which is now twenty years old. Yet it's much more than an update. Currid not only discusses the 'nuts and bolts' of the work of archaeology in Bible lands, but describes in detail the geographic attributes of each region and provides appendices that include timelines, king lists, and extrabiblical references to biblical personages, as well as crucial discussions on aspects of society (agriculture, burial practices, and water management). "This book is a must for all serious Bible students, whether they plan to excavate in Israel or to work from their 'armchairs.' Dr. Currid is to be applauded for creating such a manual. It is hard to imagine anyone with more experience and knowledge of biblical archaeology. Thus, the book is not only helpful to the beginning student, but also highly authoritative, written by someone who has 'dirtied his boots' in the field. I cannot imagine teaching a course on ancient Israel without referring to this resource often. Furthermore, I cannot imagine a beginning excavator who did not have this book in his or her backpack while in the field. In fact, in my upcoming Study Abroad experience in Israel and Jordan, I plan to have this book in hand!"--Mark W. Chavalas, Professor of History, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

"In this book John Currid provides the reader with a wonderful introduction to important geographical, historical, and cultural aspects of the Bible. Readers will benefit from the archaeological and textual knowledge found here."--Richard S. Hess, Distinguished Professor of Old Testament and Editor, Denver Journal, Denver Theological Seminary

"Over the years, I have asked my students to use John Currid's easy-to-read book Doing Archaeology in the Land of the Bible, and also encouraged tour members to purchase his book in preparation for the Israel tours I have led. I was delighted to see Currid's new manuscript, Excavating the Land of the Bible: An Introduction to the Archaeology of the Old Testament, a book well suited to the classroom and a guide to the layperson interested in archaeology. His inclusion of discussion questions and specific reading suggestions for the various chapters will be helpful for further study. Currid's new work is well organized and leads the reader from the broader areas of the history and work of archaeology in the Holy Land, to specific consideration of archaeological work in the various regions of the land, and finally to important factors relating to life in ancient Israel. Currid's new work will be welcomed among those of us who desire a clear presentation of the geography, archaeology, and everyday life in the land of the Bible. I strongly recommend his new book."--H. Wayne House, Distinguished Research Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies, Faith International University and Faith Seminary

"While many such introductory studies use either an archaeological or a biblical approach, Currid's geographical approach is fresh and helpful as an introduction to the subject for a beginning student, layperson, or traveler to the Holy Land. His view of the role of archaeology in the study of the Bible is exactly right. His key terms, discussion questions, and suggestions for further reading at the conclusion of chapters extend the volume's usefulness. Part 2 could even be used as a travel guide for a first-time visitor. The only thing missing is a chapter on Transjordan. The appendices, too, add value. Altogether, this volume stands out from the competition."--Lawrence T. Geraty, President Emeritus, La Sierra University; former president, American Schools of Oriental Research (ASOR); longtime director, Madaba Plains Project (Jordan)