The Baker Illustrated Guide to Everyday Life in Bible Times

"When we read the Bible, we encounter many manners and customs from the ancient world that the first readers of the Scriptures would have been familiar with. But being so far removed from that world, we modern readers often miss the full meaning--both literal and figurative--of biblical imagery. This fully illustrated guide aims to restore clarity and vitality to these portions of God's Word in order to help us grasp the full meaning of Scripture. It covers a whole host of issues, imagery, and customs, such as: anointing; sacred days; religious offices; cleanliness laws; burial of the dead; divination; family relationships; social standing; foods and eating; agriculture; warfare; clothing. The cultural practices of the past are fascinating on their own, but even more so as they help us correctly interpret God's Word and apply it to our lives" -- Publisher description.