"Earlier editions of this book were published as Manners and Customs in the Bible: An illustrated guide to Daily Life in the Bible times."

Includes bibliographical references and indexes

Contents:

Reconstructing Israel's social world from context-- Development of biblical literature-- Historical geography of Bible lands-- Approach of this book-- Discussing aspects of everyday life in ancient Israel-- Discussion questions

Ancestral Period: Historical introduction-- Physical appearance and fashion-- Cultural issues faced by immigrants-- Herding practices-- Food preparation and diet-- Marriage customs-- Religious practices-- Legal customs-- Weapons and warfare

Exodus-Settlement Period: Historical introduction-- Village life-- Agricultural methods and tools-- Weapons and warfare-- Social organization and administration of law-- Family life-- Religious practices

Monarchic Period: Historical introduction-- The Israelite City-- Social life-- Health issues-- Law-- Religious practices-- Weapons and warfare

Exile and return: Historical introduction-- Life in the Diaspora-- Life after the return from exile-- Religious life in the Diaspora, Yehud, and Samaria

Intertestamental and New Testament Periods: Historical introduction-- Social life-- Economic life-- Religious life