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Unearthing the Bible: 101 Archaeological Discoveries That Bring the Bible to Life
“A much-needed resource for those serious about biblical studies.” —Mark M. Yarbrough, president, Dallas Theological SeminaryThe Bible has long been dismissed as a book of myths, legends, fairy tales, and propaganda. Yet when we examine the archaeological evidence, its accuracy comes to light. In Unearthing the Bible, Dr. Titus M. Kennedy presents 101 objects that provide compelling evidence for the historical reliability of Scripture from the dawn of civilization through the early church. Gathered from more than 50 museums, private collections, and archaeological sites, these pieces not only reinforce the reliability of the biblical narratives, but also provide rich cultural insights into the ancient world. Using this visual guide, you can find context for your faith as you make your way through the Bible. Dr. Kennedy’s photographs and detailed descriptions enable you to examine each piece of fascinating evidence for yourself. From the earliest tablets of creation to artifacts connected with the life and resurrection of Jesus, Unearthing the Bible shows you can be confident there is an abundance of archaeological support for the history told in the Scriptures.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2020
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753 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 6, 2020
There have been times in my life where I thought that it would be amazing to be an archaeologist. Decades ago, I had shared with a friend that I would love to go to Egypt and look for the chariot wheels from the chariots of the Egyptian army that were buried in the Red Sea at the Exodus Red Sea Crossing (see the book of Exodus). Obviously, that fantasy idea for Blake never happened. But my interest in archaeology never waned. And so it was, when a friend recommended "Unearthing the Bible," that my interest was piqued. I immediately ordered the book and over the past several weeks have daily enjoyed readings in this amazing book.
We know that the Bible doesn't need archaeology to give it authority. The Bible is breathed out by God, is without error in its original manuscripts, is absolutely authoritative, and is totally sufficient for all of life and godliness. There is no book that gives it added authority. There is no book that is needed to bolster it's value in life. There is no archaeological find that is needed to verify that the Bible is God's Word. But there are skeptics. More so, there are those who not only hate God, but oppose Him at every turn. Since Genesis 3, God's Word has been under attack. In recent centuries there have always been those who want to undermine, attack, and ridicule the truths of God's Word. Such is the case when it comes to many stories found in the pages of Scripture. Whether it is the universal flood that took place in the days of Noah, to the existence of men like Abraham, Isaac, Joseph, David, Solomon, Daniel, etc., there have been many individuals over the years who have called into question the accuracy of God's Word, many times because there was a lack of references to certain places and persons in historical references or archaeological findings in earliers times. Sometimes, those who are young/weak in their faith find themselves waivering because of the constant drum of skepticism that beats in our culture, especially the culture of higher education.
So Titus Kennedy's book brings enlightenment to the areas where the skeptics and enemies raise questions. There are eight chapters in the book: Chapter 1: Stories of Creation, Flood, Babel, and the Patriarchs. The archaeological findings pointing back to this era are interesting indeed. Chapter 2 forcuses on the Israelites in Egypt, the Exodus, and the wilderness wanderings. If you like Egyptian history, this chapter will intrigue you. Chapter 3 covers the section of Scripture known as the Conquest, the settlement, and the judges in the land of Israel. There is much fascination with the findings from this time in history, as archaeology points to a place called Jericho, issues of child sacrifice, the gods of Canaan, and the Ark and the Philistines. Chapter 4 looks at the United Kingdom and the reign of Saul, David, and Solomon. Some of the details in this section were incredible to read about. Kennedy presents findings related to elements of Saul's reign, the issue of Goliath, the role that Agriculture played in a calendar year, and the royal house of David and years that followed after his reign. Chapter 5 considers the divided kingdom, some of the archaeological discoveries that point to particular kings, particular enemies of Israel, and the kingdoms that perpetually attacked God's people. Chapter 6, which was one of my favorites sections, focused on the Empires of Babylon and Persia, unearthing for the reader, finding after finding that match up with the storyline of Scripture. This chapter began by focusing on Baruch, the scribe of Jeremiah, walks the reader through the various findings that point to the conquest of Judah by the Babylonian kingdom, and the subsequent conquering of Babylon by the Medo Persians. The chapter ends with a section related to the Dead Sea Scrolls. The last two chapters focus in on the life of Jesus and the early church. Both were likewise, very fascinating to see what archaeology has discovered that related to the many stories during the first century, A.D.
In total, Unearthing the Bible, presents 101 archaeological findings that merely lend support to the storyline of the Bible. The pictures and the details of each section add a dimension that makes it an easy read and can hold the reader's attention. I highly recommend this fantastic book.
We know that the Bible doesn't need archaeology to give it authority. The Bible is breathed out by God, is without error in its original manuscripts, is absolutely authoritative, and is totally sufficient for all of life and godliness. There is no book that gives it added authority. There is no book that is needed to bolster it's value in life. There is no archaeological find that is needed to verify that the Bible is God's Word. But there are skeptics. More so, there are those who not only hate God, but oppose Him at every turn. Since Genesis 3, God's Word has been under attack. In recent centuries there have always been those who want to undermine, attack, and ridicule the truths of God's Word. Such is the case when it comes to many stories found in the pages of Scripture. Whether it is the universal flood that took place in the days of Noah, to the existence of men like Abraham, Isaac, Joseph, David, Solomon, Daniel, etc., there have been many individuals over the years who have called into question the accuracy of God's Word, many times because there was a lack of references to certain places and persons in historical references or archaeological findings in earliers times. Sometimes, those who are young/weak in their faith find themselves waivering because of the constant drum of skepticism that beats in our culture, especially the culture of higher education.
So Titus Kennedy's book brings enlightenment to the areas where the skeptics and enemies raise questions. There are eight chapters in the book: Chapter 1: Stories of Creation, Flood, Babel, and the Patriarchs. The archaeological findings pointing back to this era are interesting indeed. Chapter 2 forcuses on the Israelites in Egypt, the Exodus, and the wilderness wanderings. If you like Egyptian history, this chapter will intrigue you. Chapter 3 covers the section of Scripture known as the Conquest, the settlement, and the judges in the land of Israel. There is much fascination with the findings from this time in history, as archaeology points to a place called Jericho, issues of child sacrifice, the gods of Canaan, and the Ark and the Philistines. Chapter 4 looks at the United Kingdom and the reign of Saul, David, and Solomon. Some of the details in this section were incredible to read about. Kennedy presents findings related to elements of Saul's reign, the issue of Goliath, the role that Agriculture played in a calendar year, and the royal house of David and years that followed after his reign. Chapter 5 considers the divided kingdom, some of the archaeological discoveries that point to particular kings, particular enemies of Israel, and the kingdoms that perpetually attacked God's people. Chapter 6, which was one of my favorites sections, focused on the Empires of Babylon and Persia, unearthing for the reader, finding after finding that match up with the storyline of Scripture. This chapter began by focusing on Baruch, the scribe of Jeremiah, walks the reader through the various findings that point to the conquest of Judah by the Babylonian kingdom, and the subsequent conquering of Babylon by the Medo Persians. The chapter ends with a section related to the Dead Sea Scrolls. The last two chapters focus in on the life of Jesus and the early church. Both were likewise, very fascinating to see what archaeology has discovered that related to the many stories during the first century, A.D.
In total, Unearthing the Bible, presents 101 archaeological findings that merely lend support to the storyline of the Bible. The pictures and the details of each section add a dimension that makes it an easy read and can hold the reader's attention. I highly recommend this fantastic book.
July 10, 2025
One hundred and one archaeological evidences that prove the Bible to be true.
Each item is photographed, also where it was discovered, the date and the period.
The Bible passages that prove the archaeological finds are there with each picture.
In the back of the book is a timeline from 3298 BC to 95 AD.
Great book and good for referencing.
Each item is photographed, also where it was discovered, the date and the period.
The Bible passages that prove the archaeological finds are there with each picture.
In the back of the book is a timeline from 3298 BC to 95 AD.
Great book and good for referencing.
September 3, 2024
This was an interesting read and full of discoveries throughout the years with respect to Biblical discoveries. Archaeology is one of the many sciences that just cannot be refuted once a discovery is made proving something. Does it necessarily prove the entirety of the Bible is true, not necessarily. However, it does prove that the discovery itself was mentioned in the Biblical history of the world and proves a certain aspect of timing and dating. And furthermore, it brings to bear greater credence and credulity to the ideas and truths brought forth to consider.
September 1, 2025
What a fascinating book. I had very little knowledge of the embarrassment of archeological riches Christians have prior to reading this book. It's amazing that the idea of the Bible as a myth continues to be perpetuated even in academic circles. The author does a great job presenting artifacts in an evenhanded way--not placing too much weight on a single piece of evidence unless the piece truly warrants such consideration. Many of the pieces do not exactly 'prove' specific people, places, or things written about in the Bible. Rather, they serve as helpful corroborating evidence. When viewed as a whole, the body of artifacts that we have access to paints a picture that is hard to doubt: the Bible recorded real people and events that were historically and culturally located and that left behind physical evidence. For the Christian, this should serve as an encouraging reminder of what we already know to be true--the Bible is fully trustworthy. The archeological evidence also gives us one more arrow in our apologetic quiver for taking down bad arguments.
On a final note, the copy I received was printed on beautifully textured paper and featured high-resolution pictures of the actual artifacts. Highly recommend!
On a final note, the copy I received was printed on beautifully textured paper and featured high-resolution pictures of the actual artifacts. Highly recommend!
June 9, 2020
Dr. Kennedy does an excellent job of bringing over a hundred Bible-related artifacts to light. His underlying narrative concerning the reliability of the Bible as a historical document encourages archaeology fans to further investigate the Bible as a guide to faith in God. It is also a wonderful source of encouragement for those who already have put their trust in Christ. The author's personal experience in the field, and his passion for the subject matter shines through every page. This is a great gift for students, graduates, scholars, and anyone with even a passing interest in biblical archaeology. Highly, highly recommended!
December 15, 2024
What an amazing compilation of pictures, descriptions and facts surrounding 101 archaeological discoveries that indeed bring the Bible to life and validate its authenticity. The Dead Sea Scrolls are the obvious deal breaker that most people know about validating the Old Testament way before Christ. But then you have 100 others that he presents in a very readable and understandable way with amazing pictures and captions. Truly a work of significant academic achievement and research for all dedicated and serious Bible scholars and for those of us that just need another nudge validating our faith in the inherent Word of God.
September 30, 2023
A selection of artifacts during different periods that tend to corroborate the Biblical account.
I think the average person is looking for perfect support in the archeological record, such as finding Noah's Ark on Mount Ararat. However, the archeological evidence is much more modest. An artifact that backs up ANY part of the Biblical record is evidence. For example, merely demonstrating that "first man on the island" was actually a term in use during the time that Paul was on Malta is evidence that Acts is not just made up. It's not 100% proof, but it does show that Acts is actually set in the period it purports to be set in. That is a victory, however small, and should not be overlooked or disregarded. This book helps to make that clear.
I think the average person is looking for perfect support in the archeological record, such as finding Noah's Ark on Mount Ararat. However, the archeological evidence is much more modest. An artifact that backs up ANY part of the Biblical record is evidence. For example, merely demonstrating that "first man on the island" was actually a term in use during the time that Paul was on Malta is evidence that Acts is not just made up. It's not 100% proof, but it does show that Acts is actually set in the period it purports to be set in. That is a victory, however small, and should not be overlooked or disregarded. This book helps to make that clear.
November 15, 2023
Fascinating book that shows (in color) 101 different artifacts that have been discovered that corroborate the Bible. I especially love that at the end of the book there is a list that shows in each book of the Bible, the different artifacts that correlate to different verses in those chapters. When I begin going through the Bible again at the start of the year, I’m going to use this book and reference this book to connect specific artifacts with what I’m reading about to bring the text even more alive. I highly recommend this book.
October 24, 2023
Really nice resource for a brief overview of the archaeological evidences for the Bible that are out there. Kennedy doesn't go very in-depth (each artifact gets a page or two), and doesn't press evidence to say more than it does, but clearly presents how each find could or does lend support to the the Biblical narrative. Certainly there are other opinions out there, and one could dig much deeper (pun intended) into the evidence, but as a simple overview of what's out there, this is as good a resource as I've seen. Especially appreciated are the nice, color, up-close photos of each artifact being discussed.
March 22, 2021
Excellent resource for any who desire to understand the facts of Biblical history that have been uncovered through the years. The author is willing to give the Biblical record the same fair assessment as any other work of antiquity. This is a nice tool for anyone desiring to add detail to the Biblical text and to gain an assurance that those who wrote the Bible did so with historical accuracy.
October 8, 2022
Good apologetic for the authenticity of the Bible from actual archaeological artifacts unearthed in the Holy Land. Features full color photos of items from the span of Genesis to Revelation.
August 19, 2020
As I study apologetics, the more fascinating I find archaeology. I watched an interview with Titus Kennedy online where he was talking about some of the discoveries included in this book. Unearthing the Bible is organized according to the order of the books of the Bible. This book includes both Old and New Testament archaeological finds. Photographs are clear and add to the presentation. Kennedy explains that these discoveries do not always confirm everything in the Bible “beyond a shadow of a doubt,” but they do confirm name usage, events, and plausibility. He gives alternative views and weighs the plausibility of those as well.
Unearthing the Bible includes 101 discoveries, but in the conclusion, Kennedy notes there are likely over 500 archaeological finds that relate to the Bible and more are being found. I was disappointed by the lack of flood discoveries, but pleased to see discoveries related to the Hebrews time in Egypt and connections to the Exodus.
I highly recommend this book to those interested in archaeology, to those studying apologetics, to Christians, and anyone else who is curious about what has been discovered. I bought this book via kindle and this is my honest and unbiased review.
Unearthing the Bible includes 101 discoveries, but in the conclusion, Kennedy notes there are likely over 500 archaeological finds that relate to the Bible and more are being found. I was disappointed by the lack of flood discoveries, but pleased to see discoveries related to the Hebrews time in Egypt and connections to the Exodus.
I highly recommend this book to those interested in archaeology, to those studying apologetics, to Christians, and anyone else who is curious about what has been discovered. I bought this book via kindle and this is my honest and unbiased review.
January 28, 2023
This book was fascinating. :) It was so fun to learn about the archeological evidence for the Bible. I had no idea there was so much!
Even though it was fascinating much of the time, it was also a little dry at other times. I think that's because:
1) Kennedy's precise and measured writing style, which I think is expected of scholars, comes across as a little dry for non-scholars (at least it does for me).
2) The episodic nature of the chapters means they don't create one overarching story or theme.
3) While all the discoveries he mentions are important from a historical standpoint, from a layperson's standpoint, some are just "cooler" than others.
These aren't really criticisms. I'm not saying the book would be better if he had exaggerated his position or only kept the "flashy" archaeological items in his book. It wouldn't.
But don't go into it, expecting a page-turner. If you wanted to just flip through it and read the interesting parts, you could, since the chapters don't build on each other.
Last note: Kennedy does an incredible job at defining all scholarly terms, so you never feel lost. I wish more scholars did that when they try to write books for laypeople.
All-in-all, this is a great resource.
Even though it was fascinating much of the time, it was also a little dry at other times. I think that's because:
1) Kennedy's precise and measured writing style, which I think is expected of scholars, comes across as a little dry for non-scholars (at least it does for me).
2) The episodic nature of the chapters means they don't create one overarching story or theme.
3) While all the discoveries he mentions are important from a historical standpoint, from a layperson's standpoint, some are just "cooler" than others.
These aren't really criticisms. I'm not saying the book would be better if he had exaggerated his position or only kept the "flashy" archaeological items in his book. It wouldn't.
But don't go into it, expecting a page-turner. If you wanted to just flip through it and read the interesting parts, you could, since the chapters don't build on each other.
Last note: Kennedy does an incredible job at defining all scholarly terms, so you never feel lost. I wish more scholars did that when they try to write books for laypeople.
All-in-all, this is a great resource.
August 13, 2022
I hoped for more. I hoped he found a big sign that said "Moses slept here." "Jesus raised Lazarus here." I was hoping for some new revelations. But of course, there can't be, really. What he found were solid references to people and places in the Bible, in the archaeological records. The things that were written probably did happen when it said they did, right time period, the names were actual names that were used during that time period only....
Yes there were pictures, lots of them. Too small to actually see much, but then, who can read cuneiform or Linear A anyway? While I'm not sure the photos really added any to my knowledge, they actually did help keep the flow of the story from being a solid brick of archeological reporting. One serious objection, though, is that the footnotes were much too small. I would have needed to go get a magnifying glass to read them. I hope there was nothing important in there...! :-(
Yes there were pictures, lots of them. Too small to actually see much, but then, who can read cuneiform or Linear A anyway? While I'm not sure the photos really added any to my knowledge, they actually did help keep the flow of the story from being a solid brick of archeological reporting. One serious objection, though, is that the footnotes were much too small. I would have needed to go get a magnifying glass to read them. I hope there was nothing important in there...! :-(
September 4, 2024
I found this a difficult book to rate - on the one hand it's a useful reference book for biblical study, but on the other hand as a stand alone read its a real challenge.
Pro: Straight forward, to the point, and no word messing - Titus Kennedy lays out each artifacts and its relevance to the bible in less than two pages. It's concise and to the point, at times it can be an information overload but you certainly cannot say he is guilty of padding.
Con: as a book this is a real slog. With it being a collection of artifacts there is nothing directly connecting each item and each page is technically new, almost like reading a encyclopedia. There is no "story", no flow, which can make it quite difficult to get into.
Also, there is not much explanation of historical/biblical archaeology so for many readers they might fail to see the significance of an artifact to the said event.
Pro: Straight forward, to the point, and no word messing - Titus Kennedy lays out each artifacts and its relevance to the bible in less than two pages. It's concise and to the point, at times it can be an information overload but you certainly cannot say he is guilty of padding.
Con: as a book this is a real slog. With it being a collection of artifacts there is nothing directly connecting each item and each page is technically new, almost like reading a encyclopedia. There is no "story", no flow, which can make it quite difficult to get into.
Also, there is not much explanation of historical/biblical archaeology so for many readers they might fail to see the significance of an artifact to the said event.
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September 9, 2024Excellent. This was a very eye opening book. I never thought to look beyond the Bible for proof that it is true. I am satisfied with what it is-truth. No need to look any where else, imo. However, someone asked why is it that Christians only use the Bible to show its' truth? Caused me to start wondering and thinking, 'is there any other resources to prove the Bible is true?' Then, I found this book, along with some others, that showed that the Bible is indeed very true and there are proofs everywhere to show it. This books shows 101 archeological artifacts that show the truth of the Bible. I was so surprised myself of all the evidence of people, places and events in archeology that support the Bible as truth. An extremely interesting read, divided up beautifully with lovely photos. Scholarly yet an easy read.
April 25, 2023
Archaeologist Titus Kennedy does 1-2 page introductions to various archaeological finds and how they affirm locations, cultural practices, or people mentioned in the Bible.
You can tell that Titus Kennedy can write academic papers to match all of his various degrees, but he keeps the entries in this book very accessible and easy to follow for the lay person. This is a very informative book and helpful to those researching the reliability of the Bible in regards to historicity. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there are full color photos of all the artifacts mentioned.
You can tell that Titus Kennedy can write academic papers to match all of his various degrees, but he keeps the entries in this book very accessible and easy to follow for the lay person. This is a very informative book and helpful to those researching the reliability of the Bible in regards to historicity. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there are full color photos of all the artifacts mentioned.
January 14, 2024
This was a well-written book that presented archaeological evidence and information in a non-sensational manner. These discoveries do not PROVE the Bible is true. They inform us about the times and cultures of various Bible periods AND, in many cases, agree with and corroborate the biblical record. I had come concerns going in to this book but Kennedy's approach and content laid them to rest. Some readers will disagree with Kennedy's acceptance of the early date for the Exodus (c. 1446 BC). There is much to learn and to enjoy about these discoveries, not least, the pictures!
December 20, 2020
Fantastic introduction into the world of Biblical archaeology.
This was an excellent expansion of my library on biblical archaeology. I highly recommend it for apologists and debaters. It provides a very thorough list of items which are very powerful for corroborating the Biblical account of history alongside actual photographs which assist greatly in providing a double witness for the skeptic.
This was an excellent expansion of my library on biblical archaeology. I highly recommend it for apologists and debaters. It provides a very thorough list of items which are very powerful for corroborating the Biblical account of history alongside actual photographs which assist greatly in providing a double witness for the skeptic.
April 2, 2025
Titus provides physical evidence for the historicity of the Bible. He links 101 artifacts to the people, places, events, that are in the Bible.
I was amazed by the context the book provided to the events that happened in the Bible. For example, it explains why Rachel stole her father's idols?, Why the silversmiths in Ephesus were angry at Paul?, etc.
I recommend it to Christians who want to know the background of the Biblical narratives.
I was amazed by the context the book provided to the events that happened in the Bible. For example, it explains why Rachel stole her father's idols?, Why the silversmiths in Ephesus were angry at Paul?, etc.
I recommend it to Christians who want to know the background of the Biblical narratives.
April 3, 2023
As a History major and Classics minor who is also a Christian I found this book to be very disappointing. An absurd amount of inference and assumption masquerading as evidence. There are some wonderful theories that accompany these ancient artifacts but rather than presenting these as such they are written of as definitive proof (some later artifacts ARE proof but not every one of the them).
July 28, 2023
Fantastic introduction to a selection of key archeological discoveries that help to prove the historical veracity of the Bible.
If the historical content is accurate, which is being repeatedly proven as time goes on, then you have to come to terms with the rest of the Biblical content and message as well.
If the historical content is accurate, which is being repeatedly proven as time goes on, then you have to come to terms with the rest of the Biblical content and message as well.
May 7, 2025
A good book introducing lots of bits of pottery and stone that confirm the reliability of the Bible. I wish for a couple of improvements. First, the map is at the back of the book and I wish it was at the front (it took me a while to discover). Second, I wish Kennedy told us when each of things was discovered. He only did this for about 5 of the 101 things.
April 12, 2021
Stamps of Authunticity
This is a very comprehensive record of 101 Bible artifacts beginning with Genesis and ending with Revelation. This is so good and important I give it 5 stars.
This is a very comprehensive record of 101 Bible artifacts beginning with Genesis and ending with Revelation. This is so good and important I give it 5 stars.
June 30, 2021
I found this to be a good companion to several passages I was reading in the Bible. The photos and text helped to put the time period in perspective with how the people lived and communicated with each other.
September 25, 2021
I was glad to find a quick reference of known archaeological discoveries with photos. However the author’s strong evangelical Christian point of view skewed a lot of the timeline discussions from accepted archeological positions and some Christian anti-Semitic positions are evident.
February 1, 2023
I’m a huge biblical history and archaeology nerd. This book is so well done, especially if you’re not a nerd but wanna know more about biblical history & archaeology. It won’t weigh you down, or overwhelm you. It’s completely fascinating!
August 16, 2024
“The fallacious arguments claiming that the archaeological data shows the Bible to be unhistorical myth, legend, or propaganda are demonstrated to be sensationalism and falsehood by the artifact evidence presented in this book.”
April 2, 2022
Very interesting! I wanted more--description, pictures, commentary.
February 12, 2024
Fascinating.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews