Review by Choice Review
One of the outstanding Bible atlases of our time. The texts accompanying the maps in the Old Testament section have been thoroughly rewritten as have many of the New Testament sections, especially those concerning Jerusalem in Herodian times. New achievements in the study of ancient documents on which the maps are based, greater emphasis on the ecology of the land of the Bible, and extensive archeological discoveries since the 2nd edition (1977) are all reflected in this revision. While the land of the Bible is always the focus, biblical history is set in the context of the Ancient Near East and the Greco-Roman world. The coverage, 3000 BCE-200 CE, includes such diverse topics as the settlements and migrations of populations, conquests and battles, economic developments, the movement of biblical characters in various areas, and the growth of the church. The combination of maps, text, and drawings of various artifacts facilitates use and understanding and makes this one of the most helpful volumes for biblical study. The lighter shade of green used in the maps improves clarity over the second edition. Although the type size of the chronological charts at the end is too small for easy reading, the charts themselves are very useful. Highly recommended for every library needing background material to biblical study. D. Bourquin; California State University, San Bernardino
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
This atlas was last published in 1977. The original authors are now deceased, so Anson F. Rainey, professor of ancient Near Eastern cultures at Tel Aviv University, and Ze'ev Safrai, professor of land of Israel studies, Bar Illan University, were commissioned for this revision. They have made changes to reflect new information from recent archaeological excavations. The work covers the years 3000 B.C. through A.D. 200. The 269 two-color maps are arranged chronologically. Each map is accompanied by references to biblical sources. Some maps treat events that were not specifically mentioned in the Bible. For example, in the section on the Hellenistic period are maps of the campaigns of Alexander the Great and the travels of Zenon in Palestine. Succinct text explains the historical background of each map. The pages are further illustrated with black-and-white drawings of artifacts and a few photographs. Chronological tables, a key to the maps according to books of the Bible, and an index to all geographic names appearing on the maps complete the book. Librarians who have found The Macmillan Bible Atlas useful in the past will be pleased to know that this fully updated version is available. It is an important work of cartography for biblical researchers and for anyone delving into this region of the world. (Reviewed Oct. 1, 1993)
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
