Pieter Gert van der Veen | Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz (original) (raw)
Books by Pieter Gert van der Veen
Festschrift for Shlomo Moussaieff, ed. R. Deutsch, 2003
Here we discuss new insights into two little known seal impressions, one of which belongs to the ... more Here we discuss new insights into two little known seal impressions, one of which belongs to the late Solomon Moussaieff collection in London, the other which originally belonged to the same collection but was sold to the British Museum in the 1960s. One bulla belongs to a high official from the reign of Hezekiah (i.e. Azaryahu the son of Yehoach, servant of Hezekiah), the other belongs to a Hanayahu son of Gedalyahu mentioned indirectly (though the reading of the LXX) in the book of Jeremiah. The provenance for both bullae is unknown but as the present author has studied them carefully, he considers both to be genuine artefacts.
Gabriel Barkay Festschrift, 2024
In this study, the authors show why the recently published unprovenanced bulla of Shema, the Serv... more In this study, the authors show why the recently published unprovenanced bulla of Shema, the Servant of Jeroboam, is a poor modern forgery.
Die Hauptreferenten Abigail Leavitt ist Doktorandin für Archäologie an der Ariel Universität in I... more Die Hauptreferenten Abigail Leavitt ist Doktorandin für Archäologie an der Ariel Universität in Israel. In ihrer Promotion beschäftigt sie sich mit dem Übergang von der Spätbronzezeit zur Eisenzeit im zentralen Hügelland Kanaans. Sie ist Autorin des Buches The El-Burnat (A) Structure(s): Joshua's Altar? (2022). Zusammen mit Scott Stripling leitet sie die Ausgrabungen auf Tell Schilo und ist ständiges Mitglied des Manasseh Hill Country Surveys. Itzhak Meitlis studierte an der Hebräischen Universität und der Universität von Bar-Ilan. Er promovierte im Fachbereich Archäologie an der Universität Tel Aviv. Bis zu seiner Pensionierung 2021 war er Professor für Biblische Archäologie am Herzog College in Jerusalem. Er ist Autor mehrerer Fachpublikationen, u.a. des Buches Excavating the Bible: New Archaeological Evidence for the Historical Reliability of Scripture (Baltimore, 2012). Scott Stripling ist Hochschulleiter am Katy Bible Seminary in Texas. Er leitet die Ausgrabungen auf Tell Schilo und hat die Ausgrabungen in Chirbet el-Maqatir geleitet. Während des Nasssiebens auf dem Berg Ebal unter seiner Führung wurde 2019 die Bleitafel (die "Fluch-Inschrift") entdeckt. Stripling ist Leiter der Ausgrabungsarbeiten bei den Associates for Biblical Research in den USA. Er verfasste mehrere Fachpublikationen.
In Search of the Biblical Patriarchs: A historical and Archaeological Quest, 2022
The first book of the Bible tells about the origins and wanderings of Israel's progenitors in Mes... more The first book of the Bible tells about the origins and wanderings of Israel's progenitors in Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Egypt. The final chapters of Genesis tell us about the elevation of the patriarch Joseph to prime minister in the Nile Valley. Yet very few scholars today believe that these biblical stories really happened. The authors of this book have undertaken a thorough analysis of the historical and archaeological data. Starting with the chronology of the patriarchs, they have examined the archaeological, climatological, and sociological conditions and have compared them with what is written in the biblical account. Their discovery is astounding, as according to them the information rather supports than contradicts the veracity of the biblical narratives. (303pp. color illus. Masthof Press, 2022.) $36,00
In: S. Wimmer and W. Zwickel (eds.) Egypt and the Hebrew Bible. Proceedings of the Conference Celebrating 40 Years ÄAT, Munich, 6–7 Dec. 2019 / Ägypten und Altes Testament, ÄAT 100, Zaphon Verlag, Muenster, 2022
In this article the author examines four names – Israel, Asher, Reuben and Issachar – that appear... more In this article the author examines four names – Israel, Asher, Reuben and Issachar – that appear to feature in Western Asiatic clusters in topographical name lists from New Kingdom Egypt. Taking his past research on the Berlin pedestal relief ÄM 21687 as a point of departure, the author studies these names in the light of their topo- graphical, linguistic and historical contexts. Despite some criticisms made to the contrary, he concludes that the relevant toponyms could well refer to like-named entities attested in the Hebrew Bible and as such they may pro- vide further support for an earlier appearance of Israel in Canaan.
In: Epigraphy, Iconography, and the Bible by M. Lubetski (ed.), 2022
Pieter Gert van der Veen, Dating the Iron Age IIB Archaeological Horizon in Israel and Judah, 2020
Dating the Iron Age IIB Archaeological Horizon in Judah, 2020
This monograph deals with Neo-Assyrian and Assyrianizing finds found in Iron Age IIB levels in Pa... more This monograph deals with Neo-Assyrian and Assyrianizing finds found in Iron Age IIB levels in Palestine/Israel. The book deals predominantly with chronological questions such as seals and bullae, Assyrian pottery and royal jar handles and their emblems.
Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?, 2018
In this second excursus to our revised edition of our book „Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?” (2018), ... more In this second excursus to our revised edition of our book „Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?” (2018), I explain why the eastern location of the Exodus route (as suggested by Ron Wyatt, but also by the film-maker Tim Mahoney) – d.i. suggesting that the Israelites crossed the Red Sea at Nuweibeh into Arabia – is neither based on common sense nor on solid biblical exegesis and archaeological fact. This author suggests along with scholars such as James Hoffmeier that the biblical Yam Suph is located on the eastern border of the Egyptian Delta and that several toponyms mentioned in the book of Exodus can be readily identified in Egyptian texts and have been partly excavated in the northeastern Delta of Egypt. Unlike Hoffmeier, who dates the event to the 19th dynasty, this author suggest a much earlier date during the Late Middle Kingdom / Early Second Intermediate Period, during which most of these sites already existed. As a matter of fact also Tell el-Mashkuta (the biblical site of Sukkoth) existed at this time while it did not exist during the 19th dynasty.
Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?, 2018
This chapter explains the basic chronology as envisaged in 1 Kings 6:1 in terms of an early date ... more This chapter explains the basic chronology as envisaged in 1 Kings 6:1 in terms of an early date for the Exodus and Conquest. By showing that the Neo-Assyrian Chronology is firm back to 911 BC (with king Ahab fighting Shalmaneser III either in 853 or 854 BC, but by no means earlier as some scholars continue to argue) and that the Tyrian chronology can help establish the date for year 1 of Solomon to c. 970 BC (but no earlier than c. 980 BC if we follow the Old Greek Chronology of 1 Kings) this author explains why the early date of c. 1450 BC is to be accepted for the biblical Exodus.
This volume represents the proceedings of the third BICANE Colloquium* held at Sidney Sussex Coll... more This volume represents the proceedings of the third BICANE Colloquium* held at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge from March 26-27, 2011 (see Figure 1, p. vi, and 2 p. x below).The third BICANE colloquium focussed on two key figures: Shishak and Solomon. The Old Testament describes a period of great prosperity and strength for Israel during the reigns of kings David and Solomon. The alleged ‘golden age’ ended – as the biblical narrative relates – because of oppressive measures used to work the people and the machinations of an Egyptian pharaoh referred to as ‘King Shishak’. He fostered eroboam I, who led a revolt in the northern region (Israel) and in the 5th year of Solomon’s successor, Rehoboam, invaded Judah c. 925 BC, attacked its strongholds and took tribute of the treasures from the Temple built by Solomon. Hardly a single point of the biblical story has remained undisputed in recent years.
Short report on my accepted postdoctoral thesis for the University of Mainz. The monograph will b... more Short report on my accepted postdoctoral thesis for the University of Mainz. The monograph will be published shortly in the Ägypten und Altes Testament Series.
A new edition of our German book on the biblical Exodus and Conquest tradition is currently in pr... more A new edition of our German book on the biblical Exodus and Conquest tradition is currently in print. Besides an update of the introduction by the editors, the long article by Uwe Zerbst concerning the population numbers at the Exodus has been partly revised, and two completely new appendices on relevant topics (on the date of the Exodus and on the Exodus route, showing why Mt Sinai cannot be in Northern Saudi-Arabia) have been added. In sum some 30 pages have been added, while the whole book has been carefully reedited.
Our upcoming conference November 24–26 (2017) with David Ussishkin, Ariel Bagg, Wolfgang Zwickel ... more Our upcoming conference November 24–26 (2017) with David Ussishkin, Ariel Bagg, Wolfgang Zwickel et. al.
Antiguo Oriente , 2016
In a recent article Goren and Arie (2014) concluded that the two unprovenanced bul- lae of Berekh... more In a recent article Goren and Arie (2014) concluded that the two unprovenanced bul- lae of Berekhyahu the Scribe “are modern creations, reflecting a series of technolo- gical misconceptions, anachronisms, and technological errors.” Both bullae were impressed by the same seal and contain the Palaeo-Hebrew inscription: LBRKYHW BN NRYHW HSPR, i.e. “Belonging to Berekhyahu, Son of Neriyahu, the Scribe.” Their use is confirmed by the imprints of material texture and cords on their reverse sides. Having previously studied the bullae, and having recently reexamined “Bulla 1” in particular, the current authors have come to the conclusion that the arguments presen- ted by Goren and Arie do not stand up to scrutiny. Naturally, this does not prove the authenticity of these bullae. In addition they also respond to epigraphic questions rai- sed by Rollston (2003; 2016) which they believe do not stand up to close scrutiny either. What can be said is that the last word has not been spoken. Regardless of the fact that the bullae lack provenance, the very fact that they refer to a well-known biblical character (the scribe Baruch) necessitates a fair examination.
This article is dedicated to my colleague Professor Dr Meir Lubetski. In this article I discuss ... more This article is dedicated to my colleague Professor Dr Meir Lubetski. In this article I discuss a small bronze figurine with the joined front parts of bulls. Close inspection of the bulls and the dis-like feature in between the horns may allow the figure to be equated with an Iron Age Aramaean bull deity also attested in the Hauran region, to the east and northeast of the Sea of Galilee.
The history of Israel is a much-debated topic in Old Testament studies. On one side are minimalis... more The history of Israel is a much-debated topic in Old Testament studies. On one side are minimalists who find little of historical value in the Hebrew Bible. On the other side are those who assume the biblical text is a precise historical record. Many serious students of the Bible find themselves between these two positions and would benefit from a careful exploration of issues in Israelite history.
This substantive history of Israel textbook values the Bible's historical contribution without overlooking critical issues and challenges. Featuring the latest scholarship, the book introduces students to the current state of research on issues relevant to the study of ancient Israel. The editors and contributors, all top biblical scholars and historians, discuss historical evidence in a readable manner, using both canonical and chronological lenses to explore Israelite history.
Contents
Preface Bill T. Arnold and Richard S. Hess
Introduction: Foundations for a History of Israel Richard S. Hess
1. The Genesis Narratives Bill T. Arnold
2. The Exodus and Wilderness Narratives James K. Hoffmeier
3. Covenant and Treaty in the Hebrew Bible and in the Ancient Near East Samuel Greengus
4. Early Israel and Its Appearance in Canaan Lawson G. Stone
5. The Judges and the Early Iron Age Robert D. Miller II
6. The Story of Samuel, Saul, and David Daniel Bodi
7. United Monarchy: Archaeology and Literary Sources Steven M. Ortiz
8. The Biblical Prophets in Historiography James K. Mead
9. Late Tenth- and Ninth-Century Issues: Ahab Underplayed? Jehoshaphat Overplayed? Kyle Greenwood
10. Eighth-Century Issues: The World of Jeroboam II, the Fall of Samaria, and the Reign of Hezekiah Sandra Richter
11. Judah in the Seventh Century: From the Aftermath of Sennacherib's Invasion to the Beginning of Jehoiakim's Rebellion Brad E. Kelle
12. Sixth-Century Issues Peter van der Veen
13. Fifth- and Fourth-Century Issues: Governorship and Priesthood in Jerusalem André Lemaire
14. The Hellenistic Period David A. deSilva
Indexes
English: In this monograph the author investigates inscribed bureaucratic seals and bullae from t... more English: In this monograph the author investigates inscribed bureaucratic seals and bullae from the territories of Iron Age Judah (Cisjordan) and Amman and Edom (Transjordan), which have been found in situ, both in primary as well as in secondary contexts. By looking at different aspects relating to the artefacts themselves, as well as at their archaeological provenance, he seeks to determine their significance for establishing absolute dates: a) for the end of the Iron Age IIC period, and b) for its historical relationship to the end of the Monarchy Period and the subsequent invasions by the Neo-Babylonians and Achaemenids. By looking both at the seals and bullae (palaeography, iconography, historical significance of identifiable persons or official titles within the Judahite, Ammonite and Edomite state bureaucracy) and their archaeological origin (pottery and small finds found in their close vicinity and evidence of foreign military operation), he seeks to establish points of contact within the same archaeological horizon with comparable sites in Cis- and Transjordan.
German: In dieser Monografie untersucht der Autor die mit Inschriften versehenen Siegeln und Bullen aus Gebieten des eisenzeitlichen Judah (Cisjordanien) und Amman und Edom (Transjordanien), die in situ gefunden wurden. Sie stammen sowohl aus ursprünglichen wie sekundären Kontexten. Der Autor widmet sich den unterschiedlichen Aspekte der Objekte selber sowie deren archäologischen Provenienz und versucht zudem, ihre Bedeutung hinsichtlich der Datierung genauer zu fassen. Es handelt sich einmal um die Periode am Ende der Eisenzeit IIC und zum anderen um die Königszeit und die darauf folgende Zeit des Eindringens der Neubabylonier und Achämeniden. Bei genauen Betrachten der Siegel und Bullen (Paläographie, Ikonographie, historische Bedeutung der anhand der Namen identifizierten Besitzer beziehungsweise ihrer offiziellen Titel in der judäischen, ammonitischen und edomitischen staatlichen Verwaltung) und deren Fundzusammenhangs (Keramik und Kleinfunde, die in ihrer unmittelbaren Umgebung gefunden wurden und als Belege für fremde Militäroperationen gelten können), versucht der Autor, Berührungspunkte einzelner Fundorte innerhalb des gleichen archäologischen Horizonts in Cis- und Transjordanien aufzuzeigen.
Festschrift for Shlomo Moussaieff, ed. R. Deutsch, 2003
Here we discuss new insights into two little known seal impressions, one of which belongs to the ... more Here we discuss new insights into two little known seal impressions, one of which belongs to the late Solomon Moussaieff collection in London, the other which originally belonged to the same collection but was sold to the British Museum in the 1960s. One bulla belongs to a high official from the reign of Hezekiah (i.e. Azaryahu the son of Yehoach, servant of Hezekiah), the other belongs to a Hanayahu son of Gedalyahu mentioned indirectly (though the reading of the LXX) in the book of Jeremiah. The provenance for both bullae is unknown but as the present author has studied them carefully, he considers both to be genuine artefacts.
Gabriel Barkay Festschrift, 2024
In this study, the authors show why the recently published unprovenanced bulla of Shema, the Serv... more In this study, the authors show why the recently published unprovenanced bulla of Shema, the Servant of Jeroboam, is a poor modern forgery.
Die Hauptreferenten Abigail Leavitt ist Doktorandin für Archäologie an der Ariel Universität in I... more Die Hauptreferenten Abigail Leavitt ist Doktorandin für Archäologie an der Ariel Universität in Israel. In ihrer Promotion beschäftigt sie sich mit dem Übergang von der Spätbronzezeit zur Eisenzeit im zentralen Hügelland Kanaans. Sie ist Autorin des Buches The El-Burnat (A) Structure(s): Joshua's Altar? (2022). Zusammen mit Scott Stripling leitet sie die Ausgrabungen auf Tell Schilo und ist ständiges Mitglied des Manasseh Hill Country Surveys. Itzhak Meitlis studierte an der Hebräischen Universität und der Universität von Bar-Ilan. Er promovierte im Fachbereich Archäologie an der Universität Tel Aviv. Bis zu seiner Pensionierung 2021 war er Professor für Biblische Archäologie am Herzog College in Jerusalem. Er ist Autor mehrerer Fachpublikationen, u.a. des Buches Excavating the Bible: New Archaeological Evidence for the Historical Reliability of Scripture (Baltimore, 2012). Scott Stripling ist Hochschulleiter am Katy Bible Seminary in Texas. Er leitet die Ausgrabungen auf Tell Schilo und hat die Ausgrabungen in Chirbet el-Maqatir geleitet. Während des Nasssiebens auf dem Berg Ebal unter seiner Führung wurde 2019 die Bleitafel (die "Fluch-Inschrift") entdeckt. Stripling ist Leiter der Ausgrabungsarbeiten bei den Associates for Biblical Research in den USA. Er verfasste mehrere Fachpublikationen.
In Search of the Biblical Patriarchs: A historical and Archaeological Quest, 2022
The first book of the Bible tells about the origins and wanderings of Israel's progenitors in Mes... more The first book of the Bible tells about the origins and wanderings of Israel's progenitors in Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Egypt. The final chapters of Genesis tell us about the elevation of the patriarch Joseph to prime minister in the Nile Valley. Yet very few scholars today believe that these biblical stories really happened. The authors of this book have undertaken a thorough analysis of the historical and archaeological data. Starting with the chronology of the patriarchs, they have examined the archaeological, climatological, and sociological conditions and have compared them with what is written in the biblical account. Their discovery is astounding, as according to them the information rather supports than contradicts the veracity of the biblical narratives. (303pp. color illus. Masthof Press, 2022.) $36,00
In: S. Wimmer and W. Zwickel (eds.) Egypt and the Hebrew Bible. Proceedings of the Conference Celebrating 40 Years ÄAT, Munich, 6–7 Dec. 2019 / Ägypten und Altes Testament, ÄAT 100, Zaphon Verlag, Muenster, 2022
In this article the author examines four names – Israel, Asher, Reuben and Issachar – that appear... more In this article the author examines four names – Israel, Asher, Reuben and Issachar – that appear to feature in Western Asiatic clusters in topographical name lists from New Kingdom Egypt. Taking his past research on the Berlin pedestal relief ÄM 21687 as a point of departure, the author studies these names in the light of their topo- graphical, linguistic and historical contexts. Despite some criticisms made to the contrary, he concludes that the relevant toponyms could well refer to like-named entities attested in the Hebrew Bible and as such they may pro- vide further support for an earlier appearance of Israel in Canaan.
In: Epigraphy, Iconography, and the Bible by M. Lubetski (ed.), 2022
Pieter Gert van der Veen, Dating the Iron Age IIB Archaeological Horizon in Israel and Judah, 2020
Dating the Iron Age IIB Archaeological Horizon in Judah, 2020
This monograph deals with Neo-Assyrian and Assyrianizing finds found in Iron Age IIB levels in Pa... more This monograph deals with Neo-Assyrian and Assyrianizing finds found in Iron Age IIB levels in Palestine/Israel. The book deals predominantly with chronological questions such as seals and bullae, Assyrian pottery and royal jar handles and their emblems.
Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?, 2018
In this second excursus to our revised edition of our book „Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?” (2018), ... more In this second excursus to our revised edition of our book „Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?” (2018), I explain why the eastern location of the Exodus route (as suggested by Ron Wyatt, but also by the film-maker Tim Mahoney) – d.i. suggesting that the Israelites crossed the Red Sea at Nuweibeh into Arabia – is neither based on common sense nor on solid biblical exegesis and archaeological fact. This author suggests along with scholars such as James Hoffmeier that the biblical Yam Suph is located on the eastern border of the Egyptian Delta and that several toponyms mentioned in the book of Exodus can be readily identified in Egyptian texts and have been partly excavated in the northeastern Delta of Egypt. Unlike Hoffmeier, who dates the event to the 19th dynasty, this author suggest a much earlier date during the Late Middle Kingdom / Early Second Intermediate Period, during which most of these sites already existed. As a matter of fact also Tell el-Mashkuta (the biblical site of Sukkoth) existed at this time while it did not exist during the 19th dynasty.
Keine Posaunen vor Jericho?, 2018
This chapter explains the basic chronology as envisaged in 1 Kings 6:1 in terms of an early date ... more This chapter explains the basic chronology as envisaged in 1 Kings 6:1 in terms of an early date for the Exodus and Conquest. By showing that the Neo-Assyrian Chronology is firm back to 911 BC (with king Ahab fighting Shalmaneser III either in 853 or 854 BC, but by no means earlier as some scholars continue to argue) and that the Tyrian chronology can help establish the date for year 1 of Solomon to c. 970 BC (but no earlier than c. 980 BC if we follow the Old Greek Chronology of 1 Kings) this author explains why the early date of c. 1450 BC is to be accepted for the biblical Exodus.
This volume represents the proceedings of the third BICANE Colloquium* held at Sidney Sussex Coll... more This volume represents the proceedings of the third BICANE Colloquium* held at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge from March 26-27, 2011 (see Figure 1, p. vi, and 2 p. x below).The third BICANE colloquium focussed on two key figures: Shishak and Solomon. The Old Testament describes a period of great prosperity and strength for Israel during the reigns of kings David and Solomon. The alleged ‘golden age’ ended – as the biblical narrative relates – because of oppressive measures used to work the people and the machinations of an Egyptian pharaoh referred to as ‘King Shishak’. He fostered eroboam I, who led a revolt in the northern region (Israel) and in the 5th year of Solomon’s successor, Rehoboam, invaded Judah c. 925 BC, attacked its strongholds and took tribute of the treasures from the Temple built by Solomon. Hardly a single point of the biblical story has remained undisputed in recent years.
Short report on my accepted postdoctoral thesis for the University of Mainz. The monograph will b... more Short report on my accepted postdoctoral thesis for the University of Mainz. The monograph will be published shortly in the Ägypten und Altes Testament Series.
A new edition of our German book on the biblical Exodus and Conquest tradition is currently in pr... more A new edition of our German book on the biblical Exodus and Conquest tradition is currently in print. Besides an update of the introduction by the editors, the long article by Uwe Zerbst concerning the population numbers at the Exodus has been partly revised, and two completely new appendices on relevant topics (on the date of the Exodus and on the Exodus route, showing why Mt Sinai cannot be in Northern Saudi-Arabia) have been added. In sum some 30 pages have been added, while the whole book has been carefully reedited.
Our upcoming conference November 24–26 (2017) with David Ussishkin, Ariel Bagg, Wolfgang Zwickel ... more Our upcoming conference November 24–26 (2017) with David Ussishkin, Ariel Bagg, Wolfgang Zwickel et. al.
Antiguo Oriente , 2016
In a recent article Goren and Arie (2014) concluded that the two unprovenanced bul- lae of Berekh... more In a recent article Goren and Arie (2014) concluded that the two unprovenanced bul- lae of Berekhyahu the Scribe “are modern creations, reflecting a series of technolo- gical misconceptions, anachronisms, and technological errors.” Both bullae were impressed by the same seal and contain the Palaeo-Hebrew inscription: LBRKYHW BN NRYHW HSPR, i.e. “Belonging to Berekhyahu, Son of Neriyahu, the Scribe.” Their use is confirmed by the imprints of material texture and cords on their reverse sides. Having previously studied the bullae, and having recently reexamined “Bulla 1” in particular, the current authors have come to the conclusion that the arguments presen- ted by Goren and Arie do not stand up to scrutiny. Naturally, this does not prove the authenticity of these bullae. In addition they also respond to epigraphic questions rai- sed by Rollston (2003; 2016) which they believe do not stand up to close scrutiny either. What can be said is that the last word has not been spoken. Regardless of the fact that the bullae lack provenance, the very fact that they refer to a well-known biblical character (the scribe Baruch) necessitates a fair examination.
This article is dedicated to my colleague Professor Dr Meir Lubetski. In this article I discuss ... more This article is dedicated to my colleague Professor Dr Meir Lubetski. In this article I discuss a small bronze figurine with the joined front parts of bulls. Close inspection of the bulls and the dis-like feature in between the horns may allow the figure to be equated with an Iron Age Aramaean bull deity also attested in the Hauran region, to the east and northeast of the Sea of Galilee.
The history of Israel is a much-debated topic in Old Testament studies. On one side are minimalis... more The history of Israel is a much-debated topic in Old Testament studies. On one side are minimalists who find little of historical value in the Hebrew Bible. On the other side are those who assume the biblical text is a precise historical record. Many serious students of the Bible find themselves between these two positions and would benefit from a careful exploration of issues in Israelite history.
This substantive history of Israel textbook values the Bible's historical contribution without overlooking critical issues and challenges. Featuring the latest scholarship, the book introduces students to the current state of research on issues relevant to the study of ancient Israel. The editors and contributors, all top biblical scholars and historians, discuss historical evidence in a readable manner, using both canonical and chronological lenses to explore Israelite history.
Contents
Preface Bill T. Arnold and Richard S. Hess
Introduction: Foundations for a History of Israel Richard S. Hess
1. The Genesis Narratives Bill T. Arnold
2. The Exodus and Wilderness Narratives James K. Hoffmeier
3. Covenant and Treaty in the Hebrew Bible and in the Ancient Near East Samuel Greengus
4. Early Israel and Its Appearance in Canaan Lawson G. Stone
5. The Judges and the Early Iron Age Robert D. Miller II
6. The Story of Samuel, Saul, and David Daniel Bodi
7. United Monarchy: Archaeology and Literary Sources Steven M. Ortiz
8. The Biblical Prophets in Historiography James K. Mead
9. Late Tenth- and Ninth-Century Issues: Ahab Underplayed? Jehoshaphat Overplayed? Kyle Greenwood
10. Eighth-Century Issues: The World of Jeroboam II, the Fall of Samaria, and the Reign of Hezekiah Sandra Richter
11. Judah in the Seventh Century: From the Aftermath of Sennacherib's Invasion to the Beginning of Jehoiakim's Rebellion Brad E. Kelle
12. Sixth-Century Issues Peter van der Veen
13. Fifth- and Fourth-Century Issues: Governorship and Priesthood in Jerusalem André Lemaire
14. The Hellenistic Period David A. deSilva
Indexes
English: In this monograph the author investigates inscribed bureaucratic seals and bullae from t... more English: In this monograph the author investigates inscribed bureaucratic seals and bullae from the territories of Iron Age Judah (Cisjordan) and Amman and Edom (Transjordan), which have been found in situ, both in primary as well as in secondary contexts. By looking at different aspects relating to the artefacts themselves, as well as at their archaeological provenance, he seeks to determine their significance for establishing absolute dates: a) for the end of the Iron Age IIC period, and b) for its historical relationship to the end of the Monarchy Period and the subsequent invasions by the Neo-Babylonians and Achaemenids. By looking both at the seals and bullae (palaeography, iconography, historical significance of identifiable persons or official titles within the Judahite, Ammonite and Edomite state bureaucracy) and their archaeological origin (pottery and small finds found in their close vicinity and evidence of foreign military operation), he seeks to establish points of contact within the same archaeological horizon with comparable sites in Cis- and Transjordan.
German: In dieser Monografie untersucht der Autor die mit Inschriften versehenen Siegeln und Bullen aus Gebieten des eisenzeitlichen Judah (Cisjordanien) und Amman und Edom (Transjordanien), die in situ gefunden wurden. Sie stammen sowohl aus ursprünglichen wie sekundären Kontexten. Der Autor widmet sich den unterschiedlichen Aspekte der Objekte selber sowie deren archäologischen Provenienz und versucht zudem, ihre Bedeutung hinsichtlich der Datierung genauer zu fassen. Es handelt sich einmal um die Periode am Ende der Eisenzeit IIC und zum anderen um die Königszeit und die darauf folgende Zeit des Eindringens der Neubabylonier und Achämeniden. Bei genauen Betrachten der Siegel und Bullen (Paläographie, Ikonographie, historische Bedeutung der anhand der Namen identifizierten Besitzer beziehungsweise ihrer offiziellen Titel in der judäischen, ammonitischen und edomitischen staatlichen Verwaltung) und deren Fundzusammenhangs (Keramik und Kleinfunde, die in ihrer unmittelbaren Umgebung gefunden wurden und als Belege für fremde Militäroperationen gelten können), versucht der Autor, Berührungspunkte einzelner Fundorte innerhalb des gleichen archäologischen Horizonts in Cis- und Transjordanien aufzuzeigen.
Online Biblical Archaeology Website, 2024
In his recent Biblical Archaeology Review article, “Too Good to Be True? Reckoning with Sensation... more In his recent Biblical Archaeology Review article, “Too Good to Be True? Reckoning with
Sensational Inscriptions,” epigrapher Christopher Rollston takes to task several recent
studies of apparent paleo-Hebrew and proto-Canaanite inscriptions and criticizes some of his fellow epigraphers (myself included) for reading too much into these badly damaged and/or questionable texts. Although I agree with some of his points, with others I clearly cannot. Below I consider two of the texts discussed by Rollston in his article.
IDEA Spektrum 42, 2024
Paulus und der Nabatäer-König D er Apostel Paulus schreibt im 2. Brief an die Korinther (11,32-33... more Paulus und der Nabatäer-König D er Apostel Paulus schreibt im 2. Brief an die Korinther (11,32-33), wie in Damaskus die Stadttore bewacht worden waren, um ihn an der Flucht aus der Stadt zu hindern. So war er in einem Korb durch ein Fenster abgeseilt worden und konnte entkommen (vgl. Apostelgeschichte 9,24 f.). Der erfolglose Verfolger war der Statthalter eines Königs namens Aretas IV. Der regierte über das idumäische Königreich der Nabatäer von 9 v. Chr. bis 40 n. Chr.-und zwar von seiner südjordanischen Residenz aus, der Felsenstadt Petra.
Radix , 2024
Abstract: This article in Dutch focuses on the question of which archaeological layers in Israel ... more Abstract: This article in Dutch focuses on the question of which archaeological layers in Israel provide (indirect) evidence for the united monarchy under Solomon and for Israel's earliest history, that of the Exodus from Egypt and the Conquest of Canaan. The search for this history is plagued by several complications, not least the fact that our knowledge of this period is still limited. The author suggests that the "Solomonic" Age must be identified in the layers of Iron Age I (and Iron Age IIA with the time of Omri and Ahab), while the Exodus and Conquest period must be relocated to the Middle Bronze Age II-III. This article was published as a discussion of two articles (the other by Koert van Bekkum) in the Dutch magazin Radix (2024:2). Van Bekkum replies to this article and argues in favour of the conventional scheme with Exodus and Israelite Settlement at the end of the Late Bronze Age II, while Solomon remains during the Iron Age IIA period by accepting the so-called High Chronology..
Damqatum - The CEHAO Newsletter 18, 2022
In recent years, this author has been repeatedly asked by his readers about the equation of Mount... more In recent years, this author has been repeatedly
asked by his readers about the equation of Mount
Horeb with Mount Jebel al-Lawz (in North Arabia)
and about the crossing of the Red Sea at Nuweibeh,
which has been advocated above all in popular
scientific circles. He has therefore decided to discuss
here, why he does not share this view. Undoubtedly,
the topic requires a more extensive discussion. On
the other hand, the discussion offers further evidence
for the working hypothesis advocated by this author
and his co-author Uwe Zerbst1, since it shows that
the traditional arguments for the localization of Horeb
in Sinai and of Yam Suph on the eastern border of
the Egyptian Nile Delta are clearly compatible with
the postulated early date of Exodus and Conquest
(also shared by J. Bimson and D. Rohl), even if this
has been queried by proponents of the late date,
such as James Hoffmeier and Kenneth Kitchen.
(Anhang I aus U. Zerbst & P. van der Veen, Keine Posaunen vor Jericho? , 2018
In this article the author explains how the number of 480 years in 1 Kings 6:1 can be used to est... more In this article the author explains how the number of 480 years in 1 Kings 6:1 can be used to establish the date of the Israelite Exodus from Egypt. While the approximated dates for Solomon in the 10th century BC are firmly based on solid synchronisms between Assyria and the Hebrew Bible during the 9th to 7th centuries BC, a date for the Exodus during the 15th century is considered to be a good foundation for further calculations related to the earliest history of the Israelite people. The author also seeks to explain the apparent discrepancy between the durations given in the Book of Judges with Judges 11:26, where it is claimed that by the time of Jephtah Israel had been in the Land since three centuries.
Special (online) paper, 2024
"Where was the original Mount Horeb located?" This question has recently been the subject of much... more "Where was the original Mount Horeb located?" This question has recently been the subject of much controversy.1 The central question has been whether the mountain should be located further east on the northern Arabian peninsula rather than the traditional location in the Sinai desert. However, as the author has already explained elsewhere (van der veen 2018), the places mentioned in the biblical story of the Exodus route tend to support the traditional localization. Despite many years of research into the localization of Horeb, it will be difficult to determine the exact location. For this reason, the author would like to focus on the question of whether there is archaeological evidence in Sinai that Israelites and related tribes stayed there at the time of the Exodus and worshipped their god Yahweh/El.
IDEA Spektrum 32/33, 2023
In 587 B.C. the Babylonians marched from Mesopotamia between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers into... more In 587 B.C. the Babylonians marched from Mesopotamia between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers into Judah and captured Jerusalem. The temple built by King Solomon lay in ruins. Archaeology confirms these biblical narratives. Archaeologists found traces of the military interventions in several places in and outside Jerusalem. In addition, several written finds were discovered with names of people documented in the Hebrew Bible.
New Inscriptions and Seals Relating to the Biblical World
Journal of Ancient Egyptian Interconnections, 2012
I n JAE] 2:4 (2010), 15-25 we published our findings on the Berlin pedestal relief21687. 1 It was... more I n JAE] 2:4 (2010), 15-25 we published our findings on the Berlin pedestal relief21687. 1 It was argued that the fragmentary topographical list contains three name rings of which the left and central ones can be read clearly as Ashkelon and Canaan. The third name ring, of which almost half is missing due to secondary use, is more difficult to decipher, however. Nevertheless, our investigations confirmed that Manfred Gorg's suggestion made in 2001, that the name could be read as i[3}-s3ir (= 1/e-sa-El or 1/e-sar-El = Yasar-El/lsrael), has much to Figure 1: Scanned height image of AM 21687 (TrigonArt 2011 ; © Arbeitsgmppe fiir Biblische Archaologie, Germany}. It depicts the contours of the individual hieroglyphs in all name rings more clearly. See especially the outer body contours of the "vulture hieroglyph" at the fracture line to the right.
IDEA Spektrum 25, 2023
Theologische Programme haben sich häufig in der Namensgebung niedergeschlagen. Bevorzugte man etw... more Theologische Programme haben sich häufig in der Namensgebung niedergeschlagen. Bevorzugte man etwa in katholischen Gegenden die
Namen bestimmter Heiliger, waren im Pietis- mus Namen wie z. B. Traugott, Fürchtegott oder Gotthilf verbreitet. Auch in früher Zeit sind Namensänderungen aus theologischen oder politischen Gründen immer wieder zu finden. Im Zuge der Reformation Hiskias sind neben
der belegten Zerstörung heidnischer Kultstät- ten auch Namensänderungen nachweisbar.
Heritage Science 11: 105 , 2023
PS Please note that during the publication process (post-proofreading) the orientation of the Heb... more PS Please note that during the publication process (post-proofreading) the orientation of the Hebrew letters – integrated in English sentences – on p. 17, shifted to L > R. We shall try to get this solved asap. Thank you for your kind understanding.
In December 2019, an expedition on Mt. Ebal to examine the discarded material from Adam Zertal's 1982-1989 excavation yielded a small, folded lead tablet. The east dump pile, from which the object emerged, contained the discarded matrix from two structures that he interpreted as altars dated to the Late Bronze Age II and Iron Age I. The earlier and smaller round altar lay underneath the geometric center of the later and larger rectangular altar. The tablet could not be opened without damaging it. A team of scientists performed X-ray tomographic measurements with different scanning parameters. The tomographically reconstructed data were subjected to advanced processing to reveal the hidden text. Epigraphic analysis of the tomographic data revealed a formulaic curse written in a protoalphabetic script likely dating to Late Bronze Age II. The inscription falls within the literary genre of Chiastic Parallelism and predates any previously known Hebrew inscription in Israel by at least 200 years.
IDEA 2022 42
Das Gold des Rabsaris London: Zehntausende Tontafeln mit mesopotamischen Schriftzeichen lagern in... more Das Gold des Rabsaris London: Zehntausende Tontafeln mit mesopotamischen Schriftzeichen lagern in den Magazinen des "British Museum". Nur wenige Forscher sind in der Lage, sie zu lesen. So sind zahlreiche Funde nach über 100 Jahren noch nicht übersetzt und es warten sicher noch Überraschungsfunde auf uns. Bei diesen Tafeln des British Museum befindet sich unter der Inventarnummer BM 114789 eine höchst bemerkenswerte Urkunde über den Transfer einer gewissen Menge Gold im Jahre 594 v. Chr. Als Eigentümer wird ein Beamter am Hofe Nebukadnezars II. von Babylon genannt: Nebu-Sar-Sechim.
IDEA Spektrum, 2022
Laut Matthäusevangelium wurde Jesus geboren, als König Herodes über Judäa herrschte. Traurige Ber... more Laut Matthäusevangelium wurde Jesus geboren, als König Herodes über Judäa herrschte. Traurige Berühmtheit erlangte er durch die Ermordung aller männlichen Kleinkinder in Bethlehem. Pieter Gert van der Veen und Andreas Späth fassen im Rahmen der IDEA-Serie „Biblische Archäologie“ zusammen, was wir aus anderen Quellen über Herodes wissen.
Diakrisis, 2022
Wegen der gewaltigen Bürokratie der mesopotamischen Herrscher sind Tontafeln mit vergleichsweise ... more Wegen der gewaltigen Bürokratie der mesopotamischen Herrscher
sind Tontafeln mit vergleichsweise banalen Inhalten, Steuerbeschei-
de, Schreibübungen – Schulhefte2 sozusagen –, Rationslisten, aber auch Quittungen, in unglaublichem Umfang erhalten. Um eine solche Tontafel soll es hier gehen.
Although the main focus in this volume is on King Solomon’s reign and the identity of Pharaoh Shi... more Although the main focus in this volume is on King Solomon’s reign and the identity of Pharaoh Shishak, we would like to deal here with a subsequent ‘Egyptian’ campaign against Judah reported by the Chronicler (2 Chron. 14:9-15). He relates that one Zeraḥ the Kushite (MT kwšy; LXX ho aithiops) invaded Judah sometime between Years 10 and 15 of King Asa’s reign (c. 900-895 BC).[1] The identity of this Zeraḥ remains one of the great puzzles of biblical scholarship. Zeraḥ allegedly invaded southern Judah with a ‘myriad army’ including three hundred chariots (2 Chron. 14:9).[2] Nevertheless, Asa is said to have trounced the invaders at Mareshah in the valley of Zephathah and pursued them to Gerar, where he defeated them again and plundered the nearby towns:
IDEA Spektrum , 2022
Durch Eroberung entstandene Großreiche hatten immer die Tendenz zur Instabilität. Trotz wirtschaf... more Durch Eroberung entstandene Großreiche hatten immer die Tendenz zur Instabilität. Trotz wirtschaftlicher Vorteile und dem folgenden Frieden war es unterworfenen Völkern meist wichtiger, frei zu sein und alles selbst regeln zu können. Auch die Bibel berichtet im 2. Buch der Könige von der Deportation der Israeliten 722/721 v. Chr. unter dem assyrischen König Salmanassar V. und von der Deportation der Judäer 597 u. 587 v. Chr. unter dem babylonischen König Nebukadnezar II.
IDEA Spektrum, 2022
Die Bedeutung von zwei Siegelabdrücken aus der Zeit des Propheten Jesaja und des Königs Hiskia be... more Die Bedeutung von zwei Siegelabdrücken aus der Zeit des Propheten Jesaja und des Königs Hiskia beschreiben Andreas Späth und Pieter Gert van der Veen im Rahmen der IDEA-Serie „Biblische Archäologie“.
This volume represents the proceedings of the third BICANE Colloquium* held at Sidney Sussex Coll... more This volume represents the proceedings of the third BICANE Colloquium* held at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge from March 26-27, 2011. The third BICANE colloquium focussed on two key figures: Shishak and Solomon and the end of the alleged 'golden age'.
Antiguo Oriente, 2016
En un articulo reciente, Goren y Arien (2014) concluyeron que los dos bullae sin procedencia del ... more En un articulo reciente, Goren y Arien (2014) concluyeron que los dos bullae sin procedencia del escriba Berekhyahu “eran creaciones modernas, reflejando una serie de conceptos tecnologicos falsos, anacronicos y errores tecnologicos”. Ambos bullae estaban impresos por el mismo sello y contenian la inscripcion paleo-hebrea: LBRKYHW BN NRYHW HSPR, i.e. “Perteneciente a Berekhyahu, hijo de Neriyahu, el escriba”. Su uso esta confirmado por las impresiones de material texturado y cuerdas en los reversos. Habiendo estudiado previamente los bullae, y reexaminado recientemente el “Bulla 1” en particular, los autores de este articulo llegan a la conclusion de que los argumentos presentados por Goren y Arie no resisten el escrutinio. Naturalmente, esto no prueba la autenticidad de estos bullae. Ademas, tambien responden a los problemas epigraficos postulados por Rollston (2003; 2016), las cuales tampoco resisten mayores escrutinios. Lo que se puede decir es que no se ha dicho la ultima palabr...
Vetus Testamentum, 2017
Manfred Görg proposed to read the name Israel on a broken Egyptian inscriptionäm21687, which is n... more Manfred Görg proposed to read the name Israel on a broken Egyptian inscriptionäm21687, which is now kept in the storage facilities of the New Museum in Berlin. New research during the last number of years has confirmed this reading, although the writing of the name is different from that of the Merenptah inscription. Some characteristics appear to demonstrate that this inscription is older than the Israel stela of Merenptah and may likely date to the 14th or earlier 13th centurybce. The paper will present some ideas about an earlier beginning of the formation of what is generally called Israel and about the way, how this early Israel came about.
German conference Invitation flyer, 2024
Das Thema der diesjährigen ABA-Tagung ist: Inschriften aus biblischer Zeit. Neben einem allgemein... more Das Thema der diesjährigen ABA-Tagung ist:
Inschriften aus biblischer Zeit. Neben einem allgemeinen Über- blick über bekannte Schriftfunde aus der Welt des alten Israel (Siegel, beschriftete Tonscherben, Keilschrifttafeln, Papyri, usw.), soll die Bedeutung der Inschriften für das biblische Umfeld und damit auch für die Auslegung biblischer Texte erörtert werden. Ein spezielles Thema im Kontext der Datierung sind Siegel, wo- bei der Entwicklung althebräischer Schriftzeichen besondere Be- deutung zukommt. Ein Nebenthema ist die Digitalisierung von Inschriften, durch die das Material einer breiteren Öffentlichkeit zugänglich gemacht wird. Neben kompetenten Gastrednern werden – passend zum 30-jährigen Jubiläum der ABA-Tagung
– Vorträge von mehreren Fachleuten aus den eigenen Reihen geboten. Wie bei früheren Tagungen wird das Programm von einer kleinen archäologischen Ausstellung begleitet.
Writing in Biblical Times / Schreiben in biblischer Zeit With / mit Dr. Robert Deutsch Prof. Dr.... more Writing in Biblical Times / Schreiben in biblischer Zeit
With / mit
Dr. Robert Deutsch
Prof. Dr. Gershon Galil (Online)
David Hendin (Online) Andreas Späth
Prof. Dr. Benjamin Noonan
Dr. habil. Peter van der Veen
Dr. Ulrich Wendel & Andreas Späth
Prof. Dr. Uwe Zerbst
Dating Levantine archaeology during the 2 nd-1st millennium BC • Introducing the basics of C14, d... more Dating Levantine archaeology during the 2 nd-1st millennium BC • Introducing the basics of C14, dendrochronology and Bayesian statistics • Are these methods mutually supportive?
A two-day virtual colloquium A Fresh Look at the 'Unshakeable' Pillars of the Late Bronze to Iron... more A two-day virtual colloquium A Fresh Look at the 'Unshakeable' Pillars of the Late Bronze to Iron Age Transition-Chronology of the Eastern Mediterranean World October 16th & 17th 2021 Many years ago, archaeologist George Hanfmann wrote that: a word of caution must be added regarding the so-called 'absolute' dates. Because the Near East is so vital for the chronologies of the European, Central Asiatic … areas, it is well to remind ourselves from time to time that the two great pillars of the chronology of the Bronze Age, the Egyptian and the Mesopotamian, are not two stout towers resting on immovable foundations.
Fenster zur Vergangenheit der Bibel Conference 2020: on New Testament Studies with David Hendin, ... more Fenster zur Vergangenheit der Bibel Conference 2020: on New Testament Studies with David Hendin, Rainer Riesner, Alexander Schick et al.
Die Eisenzeit-Kultur des frühen ersten Jahrtausends v. Chr. (1000-587 v. Chr.): Menschen und Erei... more Die Eisenzeit-Kultur des frühen ersten Jahrtausends v. Chr. (1000-587 v. Chr.): Menschen und Ereignisse der Bibel ABA SEMINAR FÜR BIBLISCHE ARCHÄOLOGIE Im Chr. Gästezentrum Württemberg (Schönblick) bei Schwäbisch Gmünd vom 24.-26. November 2017 • Archäologie des israelitischen Megiddo • Jerusalem z. Zt. des ersten Tempels: archäologische Einblicke • Biblische Personen und ihre historischen und archäologischen Bezüge • Die Eisenzeit: Chronologie und Umwelt • Keramikformen der Eisenzeit • Workshop: Töpfer-Werkstätten der Eisenzeit • Säulenhallen als Lagerräume und/oder Stallungen • Biblisch-archäologische Ausstellung
Einladung zur Fachtagung für Biblische Archäologie
Writing and writing traditions during the biblical and early christian periods
Official invitation flyer (this time in German only) will be available in February/March 2015.
Book based on my habilitation treatise now in preparation. Download of introduction (earlier draft) as preview here now available.
There exists increasing evidence that the terminal phase of Iron Age IIB did not already end in 7... more There exists increasing evidence that the terminal phase of Iron Age IIB did not already end in 701 BC when the Neo-Assyrian king Sennacherib destroyed Lachish and some other sites in the Shephelah region. It is believed that the impact of the latter's raids was less dramatic than has been held by multiple scholars. Besides Jerusalem (which was besieged but not conquered) it is very doubtful that the Assyrians actually sought to destroy the infrastructure of Judah's flourishing towns and villages, let alone of the important trading stations in the Arad-Beersheba valley. Manifold examples will be presented (including lammelek stamps, Assyrian imported and imitated pottery styles, iconography on seals and bullae etc.) to show that the terminus ad quem of Iron Age IIB encompassed the reign of king Manasseh, Hezekiah's son and successor. Also the end of Iron Age IIA is believed to be later than hitherto thought as some evidence now suggests. This period may have lastet at least until the middle of the 8th century BC (as confirmed by 14C ) and in some areas could have overlapped with early Iron Age IIB as late as the reigns of kings Ahaz and his son Hezekiah (early reign).
Contents
Introduction
1 Neo-Assyrian Related Sillographic Elements and the terminus ante quem of Iron Age IIA
2 'Assyrian-Type Pottery' and its Implications for Iron Age IIB Chronology
3 Inscribed Jar Handles and (Other?) Fiscal Related Sillographic Evidence
4 A Tentative Reconstruction
References
Abbreviations
Tables and Figures
Bibliography
Indices
Die Hauptreferenten Eythan Levy spezialisierte sich auf dem Gebiet der antiken Chronologie sowie ... more Die Hauptreferenten Eythan Levy spezialisierte sich auf dem Gebiet der antiken Chronologie sowie der hebräischen Epigraphik. Neben seiner Promotion in Informatik (Univ. Brüssel) promovierte er an der Univ. Tel Aviv zur Chronologie der Eisenzeit. Momentan arbeitet er in Bern an der Veröffentlichung ergänzender Fachbände zu Siegelfunden in der renommierten Reihe "Corpus der Stempelsiegelamulette aus Palästina/Israel." Jesse Millek promovierte an der Univ. Tübingen zu archäologischen Zerstörungsschichten in der Südlevante am Übergang von der Spätbronzezur Eisenzeit. Als Postdoc an der Univ. Michigan hat er über Zerstörungen und deren Auswirkungen auf die antike Gesellschaft gearbeitet. Momentan ist er Gastwissenschaftler an der Univ. von Leiden (NINO). Martin Heide ist außerplanmäßiger Professor im Fachbereich Semitistik der Universität Marburg. Er ist Autor zahlreicher Publikationen vorwiegend zu epigraphischen Funden (u.a. zur Domestizierung von Kamelen im 3. und 2. Jt. v. Chr.). Er ist seit 1998 aktives Mitglied der Arbeitsgruppe für Biblische Archäologie (ABA).
Hybrid conference of Biblical Archaeology, to be held from October 6-8, 2023. This year's confere... more Hybrid conference of Biblical Archaeology, to be held from October 6-8, 2023. This year's conference will focus on three main themes with great speakers: Biblical sites and cultic places (Khirbet el-Maqatir/Ai, Shiloh and Jerusalem: Scott Stripling, Abigail Leavitt, Thomas Kinker, Hanna Klenk), overlapping archaeological periods during the Bronze Age (Itzhak Meitlis, Abigail Leavitt, Pieter Gert van der Veen and Uwe Zerbst), as well as on chronology, this time dealing with the week of Jesus' crucifixion (Thomas Tribelhorn). The conference will be accompanied by a small archaeological exhibition (organised by Andreas Späth and Pieter Gert van der Veen) and the presentation of several recent finds (Andreas Späth and Ulrich Wendel).
Invitation flyer Arbeitsgruppe für Biblische Archäologie & BICANE, 2021
Biblical Archaeology Conference 2021 on C14 and Dendrochronology, October 8-10, 2021 as hybrid f... more Biblical Archaeology Conference 2021 on C14 and Dendrochronology, October 8-10, 2021 as hybrid face-to-face conference (near Stuttgart / Germany) and Zoom conference. Speakers: Felix Höflmeyer, Katharina Streit, Lior and Johanna Regev, Petra Ossowski Larsson, Asaf Kleiman, Pieter van der Veen, Uwe Zerbst et al.
This year’s annual conference on Biblical Archaeology will be a virtual one due to Covid19. Altho... more This year’s annual conference on Biblical Archaeology will be a virtual one due to Covid19. Although most of the lectures are in German, two main lectures (those held by one of the world’s outstanding experts on biblical coins David Hendin) will be held in English. We especially want to invite students for whom the participation will be gratis. Online registration will be necessary so that a participation link can be send before the conference to your email address.
* Presentations on the chronology of Assyria, * the date of the Byblite inscriptions, * the deve... more * Presentations on the chronology of Assyria,
* the date of the Byblite inscriptions,
* the development of Levantine scripts during the Iron Age,
* the Shishak-Shoshenk synchronism,
* biblical chronology,
* the significance of inscribed seals for dating strata in Cis- and Transjordan
Speakers: Professor Ronald Wallenfels, Dr Matthieu Richelle, Rev. Frank Biberger MA, Dr habil. Pieter Gert van der Veen, Professor Uwe Zerbst et al.
Our next international confrence of Biblical Archaeology with as main speakers Profs. Eliezer Ore... more Our next international confrence of Biblical Archaeology with as main speakers Profs. Eliezer Oren (Ben-Gurion University) and Ludwig Morenz (Bonn University), and Dr Bieke Mahieu (Ecole biblique)
Curriculum Vitae, 2024
Updated CV- Pieter Gert van der Veen (as per August 1, 2024)
BICANE 4 Conference booklet
Conference booklet of our two-day virtual colloquium Assyria BICANE 4 held as Webinar 16th-17th O... more Conference booklet of our two-day virtual colloquium Assyria BICANE 4 held as Webinar 16th-17th October 2021. It contains the abstracts of the lectures held, a general introduction and an extended bibliography.
special paper, 2024
In this response we reply to some points raised against our readings of the so-called Mount Ebal ... more In this response we reply to some points raised against our readings of the so-called Mount Ebal lead tablet by Mark Haughwout's recent article in Heritage Science 12 (2024). While also others have replied (including A. Maeir, C. Rollston and R. Kletter), we have begun to reply to Haughwout's article first, as it is longest article. There will be further responses (especially to Kletter's article, which is qualitatively the most solid one), but due to restraints of schedule, we chose this one first. Some of the arguments were raised by the other critics too, so that there will be some overlaps.
Engl. translation from: U. Zerbst & P. van der Veen (eds.), Keine Posaunen vor Jericho (3rd edition), SCM Hänssler (Appendix B). , 2023
In recent years, this author has been repeatedly asked by his readers about the equation of Mount... more In recent years, this author has been repeatedly asked by his readers about the equation of Mount Horeb with Mount Jebel al-Lawz (in North Arabia) and about the crossing of the Red Sea at Nuweibeh, which has been advocated above all in popular scientific circles. He has therefore decided to discuss here, why he does not share this view. Undoubtedly, the topic requires a more extensive discussion. On the other hand, the discussion offers further evidence for the working hypothesis advocated by this author , since it shows that the traditional arguments for the localization of Horeb in Sinai and of Yam Suph on the eastern border of the Egyptian Nile Delta are clearly compatible with the postulated early date of Exodus before the end of the Middle Bronze Age. PS this is an English translation of a German article published by the author in 2018 i: U. Zerbst & P. van der Veen (eds.), Keine Posaunen vor Jericho (third edition).
PhD thesis, 2005
The final phase of Iron Age IIC and the Babylonian conquest : a reassessment with special emphasi... more The final phase of Iron Age IIC and the Babylonian conquest : a reassessment with special emphasis on names and bureaucratic titles on provenanced seals and bullae from Israel and Jordan General rights Access to the thesis is subject to the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivatives 4. This thesis was updated and then published as monograph by Ugarit Verlag (AOAT 415) in 2014. Some appendices did not reappear in the monograph.
1 Samuel and the Habiru Problem , 1989
In this thesis the author studies the phenomenon of the Late Bronze Age Habiru (and in particular... more In this thesis the author studies the phenomenon of the Late Bronze Age Habiru (and in particular the use of the term in the Amarna Letters) and the 'Ibrim (Hebrews) in the First Book of Samuel in the Old Testament. It is suggested that Late Bronze Age use (as a social-political term for migrants and outlaws, as well as a pejorative for rebels against the Egyptian hegemony) remained known to the authors of 1 Samuel. The author suggests that the end of the Late Bronze Age must be lowered by some three centuries. While he no longer accepts such a drastic chronological revision today, he still believes that the conventional dates must be revised.
Curriculum Vitae van der Veen , 2020
Update
Having watched the two part documentary in the Pattern of Evidence series by film director Tim Ma... more Having watched the two part documentary in the Pattern of Evidence series by film director Tim Mahoney, I was encouraged to write a review as there are so many points that I feel need to be addressed. Although I agree with the general thrust of the film, that the Exodus from Egypt is an historical event and that this event was accompanied by spectacular phenomena of divine dimensions, I disagree that biblical Yam Suph must be located at the Gulf of Akabah and Horeb at Jebel al-Lawz on the Arabian Peninsula.
Seminar syllabus Joh. Gutenberg University of Mainz
Sommersemester 2018/2019, 2019
Veranstaltungsart: Vorlesung Anzeige im Stundenplan: Eisenzeit II Semesterwochenstunden: 2 Credit... more Veranstaltungsart: Vorlesung Anzeige im Stundenplan: Eisenzeit II Semesterwochenstunden: 2 Credits: 2,0 Unterrichtssprache: Deutsch Inhalt: Die Vorlesung bietet einen Überblick über wichtige Ausgrabungen der israelitischen und judäischen Königszeit. Bei der Auswahl der Ortschaften stehen besonders die Befunde zentral, die dabei helfen, die Chronologie der Eisenzeit zu präzisieren. Ebenfalls soll auf wichtige ikonographische, epigraphische und keramische Aspekte eingegangen werden als Hinweis dafür, wie stark die Kultur der Königszeit von ausländischen religiösen und profanen Einflüssen geprägt war. Empfohlene Literatur: Diese wird in der ersten Stunde bekannt gegeben. Leistungen:-Für alle: Hausaufgaben + Powerpointpräsentation mit Aussprache: zu den Abschnitten
Die Vorlesung bietet einen Überblick über wichtige Ausgrabungen der israelitischen und judäischen... more Die Vorlesung bietet einen Überblick über wichtige Ausgrabungen der israelitischen und judäischen Königszeit. Bei der Auswahl der Ortschaften stehen besonders die Befunde zentral, die dabei helfen, die Chronologie der Eisenzeit zu präzisieren. Ebenfalls soll auf wichtige ikonographische, epigraphische und keramische Aspekte eingegangen werden als Hinweis dafür, wie stark die Kultur der Königszeit von ausländischen religiösen und profanen Einflüssen geprägt war.