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The Dead Sea Scrolls: Rule of the Community, Photographic Multi-Language Edition
James H. Charlseworth, ed.
(Philadelphia: American Interfaith Institute/World Alliance, 1996) 148 pp., $100
The Dead Sea Scrolls, by giving us a glimpse into the Qumran society that produced them, have forever altered our understanding of early Judaism and Christianity. In this new volume, the Rule of the Community—arguably the most important of the scrolls—is translated into English, Spanish, French, Italian, German and modern Hebrew. Scholars can refer to color photographs of the scroll, accompanied by a transcription of the text. The editor has also provided a note on the nature, discovery and significance of the Dead Sea Scrolls as well as the history and theology of the community that wrote and hid them.
The Complete Valley of the Kings: Tombs and Treasures of Egypt’s Greatest Pharaohs
Nicholas Reeves and Richard H. Wilkinson
(New York: Thames and Hudson, 1996) 224 pp., 532 ill. (76 in color), $29.95
More than 3,000 years ago, the ancient Egyptians dug some 80 tombs and stocked them with incredible treasures, creating the world’s most magnificent—and famous—burial ground. This sweeping account of the Valley of the Kings covers subjects ranging from the planning, ritual purpose and decoration of the tombs to the effects of ancient tomb robbery and the problems involved in identifying the mummies. For those who want yet a closer look, a special section on visiting the valley covers what to see and when to see it.
New Bible Atlas
J.J. Bimson et al., eds.
(Leicester, UK: Inter-Varsity Press) 128 pp., $21.99
The geography of the Holy Land is a key feature of the Bible. Beginning with the topography, vegetation and physical features of Israel and the surrounding area, this atlas uses maps, time charts, illustrations and photographs to link the geography of the Holy Land with Biblical history. The atlas touches on the main historical eras of the Bible and contains special sections on the empires and peoples of the Biblical era, the city of Jerusalem and modern Israel.
Cambridge Illustrated History: Archaeology
Paul G. Bahn, ed.
(New York: Cambridge Univ. Press, 1996) 386 pp., $39.95
Archaeology: Theories, Methods, and Practice, 2nd ed.
Colin Renfrew and Paul Bahn
(New York: Thames and Hudson, 1996) 608 pp., over 550 ill., $45
If you’re looking for an introduction to archaeology, here are two places to start. The focus of the Illustrated History is on the history of archaeology rather than the history that archaeology reveals. Though special features highlight key sites, like Masada, and archaeologists—the book is more concerned with chronicling how our notion of the past has evolved over time. Archaeology contains in-depth case studies on important projects and prominent sites and more than 100 entries on topics ranging from underwater archaeology to radiocarbon dating. It provides a comprehensive overview of the theories and methods of practicing archaeologists worldwide.