Author Archives: Administrator

After Alexander the Great died in 323 B.C., at least seven different early successors (Greek Diodachi) fought to gain control over various parts of his empire. The largest and most powerful domains were established by the Ptolemaic rulers, who controlled Egypt, Cyprus, and the Tarsus region, and the Seleucid rulers, who controlled most of Alexander’s […]

The economy of the ancient Near East, including the land of Israel, ranged from wheat farming and sheep herding to textile production and mineral mining. The land of Israel, though relatively small compared to the great civilizations of Egypt, the Hittites, and Mesopotamia, was particularly diverse in its many industries. This stemmed partially from its […]

1 Chronicles 5 The land immediately east of the Jordan River and the northern basin of the Dead Sea, often referred to today as the Transjordan, was conquered by the Israelites as they were preparing to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 21:21-35; 32:1-42; Deuteronomy 2:24-37; Judges 11:19-22). Later, during the time of Saul, these tribes […]

At the time of Jesus’ birth, the land of Israel (now called Palestine by the Romans) was ruled by the Romans, who had granted Herod the Great the title of “king” over the region (see “Palestine under Roman Rule” map). His domain included most of the land that once belonged to Israel. After his death, […]

Deuteronomy 2 Deuteronomy 2 details Moses’ recollection of the Israelites’ journey from Kadesh-barnea to Abel-shittim, where they were now waiting to enter the Promised Land of Canaan. See below for additional information about why certain decisions have been made regarding the identification of ancient locations or stretches of the journey to Abel-shittim. Four separate passages […]