Biblica Atlas van de Bijbel

by Barry J. Beitzel

Heralded as the most authoritative and up-to-date atlas of the Bible now available, Biblica: The Bible Atlas goes beyond the more traditional books of its kind. It places the biblical narrative and its peoples in their historical, cultural, social, and geographic contexts, and it makes clear the complex history and cultures of the Bible lands as they relate to the regionÂ's modern social and political landscape. But perhaps most important of all, Biblica: The Bible Atlas incorporates the most recent archaeological findings and research, combining scholarly data with engaging discussion of the BibleÂ's immortal stories. In summary, this unusual volume offers readers fresher insights and a deeper appreciation of the biblical narrative than any other reference source of its kind. Biblica: The Bible Atlas is also a visually stunning guide to the Bible and biblical lands, featuring more than 650 full-color paintings, drawings, etchings, and photographs plus 125 full-color maps of the region. Following the extensive and beautifully illustrated main text are 14 pages of biblical reference tables, an extensive bibliography, a glossary of biblical terms, a large selection of biblical quotations from the Old and New Testaments, a gazetteer of biblical place names, and an extensive index. Here is a beautiful and informative book that will make a treasured addition to the family bookshelf. It will also be a much-sought-after volume in reference libraries everywhere.

(sidebar copy)
Biblica: The Bible Atlas Brings to life the dramatic stories, charismatic people, and fascinating locales of the Bible Arranged in eight parts: geography and history of the Bible lands; Genesis and the Patriarchal period; the Judges; the Kings, the Prophets and the Righteous; the conquest of the kingdoms; the life of Jesus of Nazareth; and the spreading of the Word Includes information on topography, geology, climate, vegetation, and key physical features of the region 125 original maps show prominent locations, journeys, battles, political boundaries, and more Incorporates the latest archaeological findings and theological research

Genres: Religion, History, Reference, Nonfiction, Theology, Biblical Studies

575 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Michael O'Brien · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a reference on culture, geography, and historical context of Bible times, Biblica is useful. However, I do not recommend using this book as a reference on Biblical doctrine or apologetics. When it comes to these, Biblica tends to try to blend in higher criticism and ecumenism, often without any real basis for doing so. For example, in its section on the journeys of the Apostle Paul, it implies that Luke may have made up Paul's parting address to the elders of the church in Ephesus. In another, it implies that Paul is "militaristic" ---- when, in fact, to most readers, it's obvious the Paul is being metaphorical in his exhortation to put on the "whole armor of God". In fact, if you read that passage in context, Paul is clear on that point. In at least one part, I found an error where Biblica quotes Revelation 17:9 as Ezekiel 17:9. Biblica tends to subtly blend this liberal ecumenical higher criticism and dismissiveness intermittently through it. Not obnoxiously or stridently so, but enough that it may fool someone who uses that as a first reference on Biblical history and books.

It's not all bad. In fact, much of it is very good. Biblica's maps are accurate and interesting, and much of its art is illuminating and breathtaking. However, I do not recommend using this book as a primary reference on the passages of the Bible that it covers. For a book this in depth ---- and this costly --- I think its authors could have done a bit better, and, for that reason, I can only give it an average rating.

[Jeremiah Gallagher · Rating 2 out of 5]

it is full of amazing pictures but the authors' attitudes towards God and the bible seem very doubtful and even demeaning. Instead of taking the bible as truth and backing it up with other historical documents they take all other historians at their word and then if it is in line with the bible they say that the bible is plausible. i would assume mostly Christians are buying this book and it is upsetting to see the lack of faith. also they use the abbreviations BCE and CE, it may seem minor but someone who is doing this much research on the bible shouldn't care about being politically correct.

[Scottnshana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good maps, good history, good art; all on glossy, high-quality paper. Delves deeply into the geography, the Greco-Roman influences, and contemporary events the Middle East during each of the Scriptural eras. It is a massive coffee-table book, but I'd recommend it to anyone interested in Judeo-Christian heritage.

[Andreea Borz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A detailed social, geo-political and cultural history of the biblical land. Considering the fact that the chapters are written by different authors, I would say that there are interesting and less interesting parts. Nevertheless, it's an useful refference book when it comes to a fully understanding of this part of the world.

[Stefan Krt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautifully beautifully presented massive coffee table book. It has some interesting archaeological and historical facts great artwork and is generally well written. I have a more historical interest in the Bible then religious and this Book seemed an entertaining way to explore it.

[Michael Kerjman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A comprehensive work is of an amazing presentation quality, Biblical characters and events has been described from historical perspective on a landscape ancient events took place.

[Kathryn Corbin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A massive book, and one that helps visualise the journies of the Patriarchs of the Bible. There are interesting side notes on culture and cities that have been found. I have yet to use the CD-Rom that came with my edition.

[Al · Rating 3 out of 5]

Biblica: The Bible Atlas: A Social and Historical Journey Through the Lands of the Bible by Prof. Barry J. Beitzel (2007)

[Robyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great illustrations. I thought the Old Testament part was much better written than the New Testament part, which I did not enjoy so much.

[John Haydon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the whole thing and took notes. A great book, with excellent graphics.

[Jaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good introduction into social, geographic, climates and historical knowledge that will help to put good context when we read the Bible.