Insights into the life of the ancient Samaritans have been uncovered in a new excavation of a fourth-century site in a small village twelve miles east of Tel Aviv. This is an unusual location for a Samaritan village. After the Jewish revolts against Rome in the first and second centuries, Samaritans were driven from the […]
3rd Jewish Temple?
Bible Exploration 10 The Temple Institute has been preparing for the next Jewish Temple since 1987. They have priests being trained, red hefers being raised, garments created, all in the anticipation of a third Jewish temple. There is one problem – the Dome of the Rock! This third most holy site of Islam sits where […]
Ancient Roman Concrete
Bible Exploration Ever wonder why Roman buildings last so long while modern structures often degrade within a generation? A team of Utah University geologists has uncovered the secret behind the durability of structures made with Roman cement. The idea was actually suggested by the ancient writer Pliny the Elder. In his first-century book, “Naturalis Historia,” […]
The Heart of God – Missions
God gives us children to teach us lessons we might completely overlook if not for their innocent questions. One evening, I came home from work and sat in my chair reading. Brianne was on the floor in front of me, playing with some toys. A non-profit Christian organization’s TV ad came on, and I saw […]
What prevented the nails in a crucifixion victim’s hands from tearing through the fingers, causing the victim to fall forward off the cross?
Cheryl Those being crucified typically carried the crossbeam to the execution site, while the upright post remained secured in its position. The victim was stripped and placed on the cross-beam. The nails were driven through the middle of the forearm to ensure they would rest between the two arm bones. Small wooden plaques were probably used […]
Why does the book of Judges emphasize that Ehud was left-handed?
Jason In Judges chapter 3, God sent Ehud, Israel’s second judge, to deliver the nation from Moabite oppression. “The Lord raised up a rescuer to save them. His name was Ehud…a left-handed man of the tribe of Benjamin” (v. 15). The Hebrew for “left-handed” literally means “restricted in the right hand.” Chapter 20:16 states, “Among Benjamin’s elite troops, […]