The Religions of Ancient Israel

This investigation into the religion of ancient Israel draws on textual readings, archaeological and historical data and epigraphy to determine what may be known about the Israelite religions during the Iron Age (1200-586 BCE). The evidence is synthesized within the structure of an Israelite worldview and ethos involving kin, tribes, land, traditional ways and places of worship and a national deity. Professor Zevit has originated this interpretative matrix through insights, ideas and models developed in the academic study of religion and history within the context of the humanities. He contends that much of the Psalter was composed in praise of deities other than Yahweh. Through the book, the author encourages dialogue and co-operative study between ancient historians and archaeologists, but particularly between Iron Age archaeologists and biblical scholars.