Rarely does the Bible student get such a fully-fleshed view of life among the people who continue to live much the same way the authors of sacred Scripture lived.
Although this book is not a recent publication, a pervasive theme is that a few decades don't make much difference in lifestyle to these Bedouin people of the Middle East. The author lived among them and writes about the clothing, customs and habits in a way that sheds light on some phrases from Scripture that either pass by the Western mind or confound it.
For example, when we read references to the 'bread of life' in the Bible, certain images come to mind, but usually in the context of Eucharist or communion. We learn from the author the people in this area hold bread in very high esteem. So high, in fact, that a traveler spotting a dropped piece of bread along the way will pick it up, kiss it, and set it up on a rock to keep it from being trodden upon by the next traveler or his animal. And who would think more than a few lines were needed to describe the potter, his clay, and the creations he makes? But there are pages on the subject and all to highlight specific Bible references to clay and pottery.
While I was thrilled with all the insights, the writing style is less than captivating. Think of it as you would a documentary film...you don't expect drama or stylized characters, but it's informative and interesting. The book is arranged in short readings grouped by general subject. That makes it easy to read for 5 minutes or 45 minutes at a time.
I hope you enjoy it, I did!
Eric
Although this book is not a recent publication, a pervasive theme is that a few decades don't make much difference in lifestyle to these Bedouin people of the Middle East. The author lived among them and writes about the clothing, customs and habits in a way that sheds light on some phrases from Scripture that either pass by the Western mind or confound it.
For example, when we read references to the 'bread of life' in the Bible, certain images come to mind, but usually in the context of Eucharist or communion. We learn from the author the people in this area hold bread in very high esteem. So high, in fact, that a traveler spotting a dropped piece of bread along the way will pick it up, kiss it, and set it up on a rock to keep it from being trodden upon by the next traveler or his animal. And who would think more than a few lines were needed to describe the potter, his clay, and the creations he makes? But there are pages on the subject and all to highlight specific Bible references to clay and pottery.
While I was thrilled with all the insights, the writing style is less than captivating. Think of it as you would a documentary film...you don't expect drama or stylized characters, but it's informative and interesting. The book is arranged in short readings grouped by general subject. That makes it easy to read for 5 minutes or 45 minutes at a time.
I hope you enjoy it, I did!
Eric
