A superlative reference work against which the Bible and its stories can be fully appreciated and understood. The story of the Bible is also the story of the ancient Near East, the home of the first civilizations and scene of the clashes between the great empires of Egypt, the Hittites, Assyria and Babylon. Records of this period are replete with wars, conquerors and exiles, the rise and fall of empires and the divisions of kingdoms, linking prophets, judges and kings and of course the life of Jesus himself. From the earliest evidence of mankind in Palestine, to the establishment of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, the Jewish revolts against the Romans and the rise of the Christian Church, the whole of Biblical history in its geographical context is covered here. Richly illustrated with over 100 detailed maps and diagrams, and authoritative accompanying text, the content has been specially created to appeal to students, historians of religion and anyone with a passion for the period. It conveys a tangible sense of the land, events and people portrayed in the world's most famous book, making it an outstanding work of reference. * Edited by Professor James B. Pritchard, with an international contributory team of archaeologists, linguists, historians and theologians * Consultant editor Nick Page, author of Explorer's Notes: The Bible * Over 100 maps and diagrams create a visual picture of the region * Internet links to enable further research * Biblical references to enhance the text