Ancient Israelite Religion

by Susan Niditch

Ancient Israelite Religion offers a brief, accessible, and perceptive account of the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Israelites, analyzing the complex and varied ways in which they present and preserve themselves in the Hebrew Bible. Drawing on the most recent literary scholarship and archaeological evidence, the author provides a compelling account of how the culture of the Israelites changed over three great historical periods--the distant pre-monarchic age, the monarchies of Israel and Judah, and the Babylonian exile and return. The heart of the book is a rich description of the Israelites' religious life as revealed in the Hebrew Bible. Exploring how they described their experience of God, Niditch draws out consistent themes in the Biblical stories. Most importantly, she allows us to see the world through the Israelites' eyes as she reconstructs both their habits and their larger worldview.
Ideal for introduction to the Bible and introduction to religion courses, this insightful, subtly nuanced portrait is also easily understandable to general readers. It brings to life this ancient people whose legacy continues to influence and captivate the world today.

Genres: History, Religion, Archaeology, Nonfiction, Old Testament, Judaism

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Nicolas Barbeito · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is basically a Cliffsnotes of the author's college class. Very briefly hits major themes, gives a few observations, and then recommends several books for each topic that go more in depth.
Not really a useful book, imho, for gaining a good understanding of AIR. Only useful to see what current scholarly books to maybe get.

[Catherine McNiel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the best book on the topic I have read.

[Rick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perspective