In its early years, BAR offered its readers an exciting array of products, novelties, and accessories celebrating the discovery and adventure of biblical archaeology. We sold BAR-branded T-shirts, ties, umbrellas, Dead Sea Scroll mugs, elegant tote bags featuring the Madaba mosaic map, and even mold-made replicas of the famous Siloam Tunnel Inscription. No doubt the most interesting—and controversial—merch we sold was our infamous idol set, promoted in a full-page ad in the September/October 1981 issue. The three-figure set, which included exact replicas of a Canaanite fertility plaque, a Judean pillar figurine, and a stylized metal snake from the Hathor shrine […]
