Circumcision
Circumcision was widely practiced in the ancient Near East, though not by every people group. In Egypt, it was considered a rite of passage. For… Read More »Circumcision
Circumcision was widely practiced in the ancient Near East, though not by every people group. In Egypt, it was considered a rite of passage. For… Read More »Circumcision
Double walls. Like several other ancient cities, Jericho was most likely protected by a double wall. Poorer citizens of the city often built their homes… Read More »Double walls
The Historical Books. Joshua begins the section of the Bible known as the Historical Books. There are 12 Historical Books: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1–2 Samuel,… Read More »The Historical Books
Genesis through Deuteronomy are the foundation of the Bible. They introduce the key promises that show God’s purposes in history and prepare for the coming… Read More »Genesis through Deuteronomy
Idols represent gods that don’t actually exist, but the demons behind idol worship are real (32:17).
Walk this way! The Bible often describes godly living as “walking” with the Lord (30:16; Ps. 23:4; Eph. 4:1).
Brimstone most likely refers to sulfur. It is a bright yellow, highly combustible mineral that puts out a terrible odor when it burns. Brimstone is… Read More »Brimstone
At more than 3,000 feet (914 m) high, Mount Ebal is one of the highest points in Samaria.
Shoes and sandals were considered the most humble articles of clothing. They were removed at the doorway before entering a home. People also removed their… Read More »Shoes and sandals
What was an upper millstone? Israelite women ground their grain in mills made of two circular stones. The grain was placed on the flat lower… Read More »What was an upper millstone?
Why did the Israelites sew tassels on their garments? In the ancient world, tassels were worn by nobles and other high-class people. In Israel they… Read More »Why did the Israelites sew tassels on their garments?
Inheritance rights. In Israel, the firstborn son received a double share of the inheritance. The firstborn also had more responsibility for the family than other… Read More »Inheritance rights