Oxford Bible Atlas Review
I was just browsing the "Oxford Bible Atlas" on Amazon.com where I came across a description of the "Fertile Crescent" on page 15 where it is said to extend from the Euphrates/Tigris river valley through the Nile valley.
The "Fertile Crescent" is not an ancient description. The term was coined by James Henry Breasted (about 100 years ago) in the introduction to each of his volumes of translations of Egyptian inscriptions. For Breasted, the "Fertile Crescent" was limited to the Euphrates/Tigris, Orontes and Jordan river valleys. Breasted contrasted the "Fertile Crescent" with the Nile valley. Ipso facto, for Breasted, Egypt formed no part of the "Fertile Crescent".
The "Oxford Bible Atlas" also refers to the "Fertile Crescent" as if it included Egypt on pages 120 and 192. The "Holman Bible Atlas" correctly describes the "Fertile Crescent" on page 3 and attributes its definition to Breasted. (Wikipedia incorrectly describes and maps the "Fertile Crescent" to include Egypt.)
The only map showing up in Amazon's "LOOK INSIDE" section is that spread over pages 16 and 17. The List of Maps is on page ix but this doesn't show up using "LOOK INSIDE". As the book is an atlas one would expect to be able to see a list of maps if not a few sample maps. I have browsed some of the other biblical atlases on-line. Where they are shown, the other atlases have very wishy-washy maps. It would be nice to know what the "Oxford" maps look like before buying the book. The "Oxford" text is certainly better - in both font and content - than that of the other atlases.
I have rated this book based on the "LOOK INSIDE" excerpts and the comments of others with the hope that the poor scholarship in relation to the "Fertile Crescent" does not extend elsewhere.
Oxford Bible Atlas Feature
- ISBN13: 9780199560462
- Condition: New
- Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Oxford Bible Atlas Overview
This new fourth edition of the Oxford Bible Atlas, now with twenty-seven full-color maps and eighty-one color illustrations, has been thoroughly revised to bring it up to date with both the most recent biblical scholarship and the most modern discoveries in archaeology and topography.
This authoritative Atlas illuminates the landscape of the biblical world, allowing readers to better understand the geographical context in which the Bible emerged and which formed its background. The colorful, highly accurate maps capture the many ancient locales of the Bible's stories and carefully reflect the successive stages of the Bible's accounts, while specially chosen full-color illustrations bring the countries and their peoples to life. The Atlas covers everything from Genesis to the stories of David and Solomon, the trade routes of the ancient world, the vast empires of Alexander the Great and Rome, and the ministry of Jesus and the formation of the early Church. The accompanying text describes the land of Palestine, and its wider ancient Near Eastern and east Mediterranean settings. It outlines the successive historical periods, and describes the major civilizations with which Israelites, Jews, and early Christians came into contact. There is also an illustrated survey of the relevance of archaeology for the study of the Bible. Finally, the book includes a full chronology, suggestions for further reading, an index of place names, and a general index.
An essential resource for all students of the Bible, the Atlas provides a superb guide to the geography of the Holy Land throughout history, from the Exodus to New Testament times.
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Customer Reviews
This is the Best! - Col H. G. Baker - Yakima, WA
For those of us interested in biblical history and the latest archeological perspective, this Atlas is the best source of illustrated information. Use it with the bible and you get a real insight into the history of the holy land. Recommended for all -- whether you are religious or just interested in world history.
Great Atlas For the Money - Kimberly N. Miracle - Louisville, KY
A Bible atlas is essential for any student of Scripture. While there are numerous such books available, the Oxford Bible Atlas is superb for the price. The atlas is full of information and photos of outstanding quality. This atlas is a perfect option for those looking to purchase an excellent resource without having to break the bank.
What a book ! ! ! ! ! ! - Vivian Dewitt - EArie , PA
This book is beautiful, pictures are stunning, the maps are beautiful to see but the content is great. Beside all this there are written sections that contain much useful information.
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Sep 09, 2010 08:16:05
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