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The Internet Ancient History Sourcebook has expanded greatly since its creation, and now contains hundred of local files as well as links to source texts throughout the net. See Introduction for an explanation of the Sourcebook's goals. See the Help! page for all the help on research I can offer. Although I am more than happy to receive notes if you have comments on this web site, I cannot answer specific research enquiries [and - for students - I cannot, or rather will not, do your homework.] The Ancient History Sourcebook works as follows: This Main Index page [this page] shows all sections and sub sections. To access the sub-section pages , simply browse the sections below and select the highlighted (white text with blue background) section title on the left. In addition there are two navigation bars on the left of each page for every sub-section For materials added since July 1998 see the New Additions page. Additional Study/Research Aids Introduction Paul Halsall , Compiler and Editor
10th Century Hebrew Inscription on Pottery from Khirbet Qeiyafa, Israel Confirms Biblical Claims
Introduction Many skeptics claim that the Bible wasn't written until the fifth century B.C., since ancient Hebrew wasn't even in existence until then. However, recent discoveries show written Hebrew was in existence by the 10th century, B.C. To the surprise of many skeptics, an ancient Hebrew inscription, dated to the 10th century B.C. was discovered in 2006. Now, the most ancient example of the Hebrew language has been found on a pottery shard in Khirbet Qeiyafa, 20 miles southwest of Jerusalem, near the Elah Valley in Israel.1 New evidence The archaeological site of Khirbet Qeiyafa is the location of a massively fortified city of megalithic stones 6-9 ft tall.2 In 2008, two city gates were discovered, which was very unusual for cities of that time (which usually had only one gate). The pottery shard containing the inscription was discovered by Professor Yosef Garfinkel in 2008. you shall not do [it], but worship the [Lord]. Conclusion The discovery of the 10th century B.C. References
The History of the Ancient Near East Electronic Compendium
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs
New World Encyclopedia
Most ancient Hebrew biblical inscription deciphered, scholar says
A breakthrough in the research of the Hebrew scriptures has shed new light on the period in which the Bible was written. Professor Gershon Galil of the Department of Biblical Studies at the University of Haifa has deciphered an inscription on a pottery shard discovered in the Elah valley dating from the 10th century BCE (the period of King David's reign), and has shown that this is a Hebrew inscription. The discovery makes this the earliest known Hebrew writing. The significance of this breakthrough relates to the fact that at least some of the biblical scriptures were composed hundreds of years before the dates presented today in research and that the Kingdom of Israel already existed at that time. Prof. A breakthrough in the research of the Hebrew scriptures has shed new light on the period in which the Bible was written. Prof. Prof. The contents of the text express social sensitivity to the fragile position of weaker members of society. English translaton of the deciphered text:
Sumerian Language Page
Ancient World
Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia
The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs (R. H. Charles)
From The Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha of the Old Testament by R. H. Charles, vol. II, Oxford Press 1 1 The copy of the Testament of Reuben, even the commands which he gave his sons before he 2 died in the hundred and twenty-fifth year of his life. Two years after the death of Joseph his 3 brother, when Reuben fell ill, his sons and his sons' sons were gathered together to visit him. 2 1 And now hear me, my children, what things I saw concerning the seven spirits of deceit, when 2 I repented. 3 1 Besides all these there is an eighth spirit of sleep, with which is brought about the trance of 2 3 nature and the image of death. 5 1 For evil are women, my children; and since they have no power or strength over man, they use 2 wiles by outward attractions, that they may draw him to themselves. 6 1 Beware, therefore, of fornication; and if you wish to be pure in mind, guard your senses from every 2 woman. 7 1, 2 And Reuben died, having given these commands to his sons.
Perseus Digital Library
Livius. Articles on Ancient History
