Cyprus Within the Biblical World: Are Borders Barriers?

This volume explores the cultural connections between Cyprus and Palestine in the biblical period, highlighting trade relations and cultural commonalities. It suggests that further examination of these links can provide insights into the development of ancient Israelite religion, early Judaism, and early Christianity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive volume delves into the rich tapestry of ancient Israelite culture, transcending the boundaries of isolation and borders. By incorporating insights from classical studies and ancient history, which acknowledge the profound interconnectedness of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, the contributors offer a fresh perspective on the subject.

In particular, the contributors delve into the intriguing relationship between Cyprus and the Bible, providing valuable archaeological and biblical insights to explore how and in what ways Cyprus and Cypriot culture were intertwined with biblical life and perceptions. Despite the geographical separation between Palestine and Cyprus, the Mediterranean Sea played a role in bridging their cultural divide. Archaeological discoveries have unearthed significant evidence of trade relations and cultural commonalities, spanning from the Hellenistic and late-Roman eras to many centuries prior. These connections grew more intimate during the later biblical period, as evidenced by early Jewish and Christian writings.

By employing a diverse range of methods to examine cultural contact, the contributors propose that further exploration of the cultural links between Cyprus and Palestine during the biblical period holds the potential to yield invaluable insights into the development of ancient Israelite religion, early Judaism, and early Christianity. This multidisciplinary approach sheds light on the complex interplay between these ancient civilizations and contributes to our understanding of the rich and multifaceted heritage of the Mediterranean region.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567694904