Writing and Re-Writing History by Destruction: Proceedings of the Annual Minerva Center RIAB Conference, Leipzig, 2018. Research on Israel and Aram in Biblical Times III

This volume explores the deliberate destruction of history in Syria, Palestine, and Mesopotamia, combining archeological, ancient Near Eastern, and biblical studies to understand the perspectives of the defeated Israelites, Jerusalemites, and Judeans. The practice of reshaping the past continues to this day, as demonstrated by the example of the Arabian-Muslim conquest of Aram and current Turkish politics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 349 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2022
Publisher: JCB Mohr (Paul Siebeck)

This comprehensive volume brings together the insightful papers presented at the esteemed Minerva Center's Research on Israel and Aram in Biblical Times conference, held in Leipzig in 2018. The conference focused on the intriguing topic of writing and rewriting history through deliberate destruction in the regions of Syria, Palestine, and Mesopotamia. A diverse international group of scholars approached this subject with a multi-perspective and interdisciplinary approach, shedding light on the complex dynamics of this historical phenomenon.

Archeological studies, ancient Near Eastern studies, and biblical studies delved into the devastating destruction of ancient sites in Israel and Judah during the 1st millennium BC. The perspective of the defeated Israelites, Jerusalemites, and Judeans is intricately described in the Old Testament and postbiblical literature, revealing that these destructions played a pivotal role in shaping their cultural and identity. The long-standing practice of reshaping the past through the deliberate destruction of cultural heritage to suit current interests becomes evident as we examine the Neo-Assyrian Empire's practices up to the modern era, exemplified by the Arabian-Muslim conquest of Aram and contemporary Turkish politics.

The conference aimed to explore the multifaceted implications of this destructive behavior, examining how it shaped societies, altered narratives, and influenced the course of history. The participants brought forth a wealth of knowledge and expertise, contributing to a rich and thought-provoking dialogue. Through their research, the scholars demonstrated the profound impact of deliberate destruction on the fabric of human civilization, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of this complex phenomenon.

This volume serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of history, culture, and identity. It provides a comprehensive examination of the topic and offers valuable insights into the ways in which deliberate destruction has shaped our understanding of the past and influenced the course of our present.

Weight: 766g
ISBN-13: 9783161612480