Daily Life in the New Testament - (Greenwood Press Daily Life Through History) by James W Ermatinger (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Explore the social and material culture of ancient Palestine during the era of the biblical New Testament. Who was the messiah prophesied by the Jews? What were the rites of passage in pre-messianic Judiasm? How did the rituals, parables, holidays, and labor practices mentioned in the New Testament relate to the daily life of the average citizen of the day? This lively volume explores the social history of ancient Palestine at the crossroads of the Eastern Mediterranean world, and the emergence of major monotheistic faiths during the time of Christ and the early centuries of the Common era.

Narrative chapter topics include pre-Messianic Judaism; political and religious groups; peasant life and agriculture; Roman occupation; work and labor; and Greek, Latin, and Persian influences.

Review Quotes

"This book gives useful insights to better understand the people and events describe in the New Testament and the religious traditions that have become integral to present-day Christianity and Judaism....Features include a glossary, a bibliography, and thumbnail sketches throughout the text of historical figures such as Paul, Babatha, Caiaphas, Josephus, Augustus, and Herod." --ARBA

". . . an appealing book . . . . Daily Life in the New Testament is recommended for any library's general collection. . . . It provides a brief, up-to-date, and scholarly overview of the socio-historical setting of the area where Christianity and Judaism claim their heritage." --Reference & User Services Quarterly

About the Author