Itzick Shai
Ariel University, Land of Israel Studies and Archaeology, Faculty Member
- Archaeology history Israel heritage antiquities Near East, Archaeology, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Archaeology of the Southern Levant, Ceramic Analysis (Archaeology), and 21 moreHebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Biblical Archaeology, Biblical Studies, Pottery (Archaeology), Philistines, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Ancient Near East, Iron Age, Ancient economies (Archaeology), Phoenician trade, Early Bronze Age in the Southern Levant, Archaeology of the Levant, Nadav Naaman, Syro-Palestinian archaeology, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Mediterranean archaeology, Levantine Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age, and Ancient Israel(Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Biblical Archaeology, Biblical Studies, Pottery (Archaeology), Philistines, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Ancient Near East, Iron Age, Ancient economies (Archaeology), Phoenician trade, Early Bronze Age in the Southern Levant, Archaeology of the Levant, Nadav Naaman, Syro-Palestinian archaeology, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Mediterranean archaeology, Levantine Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age, and Ancient Israel)edit
- Director of the Tel Burna Archaeological Project (http://telburna.wordpress.com/) Vice dean of Redit
This study investigates the effects that an encounter with a foreign object can have on local traditions. Notions of object agency and object biographies will be utilized to address what happens when people become entangled with new... more
This study investigates the effects that an encounter with a foreign object can have on local traditions. Notions of object agency and object biographies will be utilized to address what happens when people become entangled with new things: the new context can have an impact on the newly introduced object, and those newly introduced objects can similarly impact locals and their traditions. The Late Bronze Age southern Levantine site of Tel Burna will serve as a case study, where a number of imported Cypriot pithoi were found alongside locally produced pithoi. It will be demonstrated that in their new context, the Cypriot pithoi were given new meaning and function. At the same time, the imported pithoi played active roles in the local potters of Tel Burna making pithoi. However, the local pithoi resemble local storage jars, so while the potters mimicked the concept of the Cypriot pithoi, they did so according to local normative forms.
Research Interests:
In ancient Near Eastern iconography, panthers and lions were frequently used to express social status. The zooarchaeological remains of panthers and lions found in this region, however, are most commonly interpreted only as evidence for... more
In ancient Near Eastern iconography, panthers and lions were frequently used to express social status. The zooarchaeological remains of panthers and lions found in this region, however, are most commonly interpreted only as evidence for the management of dangerous animals. Starting with the faunal material from Iron Age Tel Burna, the authors collate and analyse zooarchaeological evidence for big cats across the Near East, from the Neolithic to the Iron Age (c. 9500–50 BC). The results show a shift in assemblage composition and find contexts starting in the
Chalcolithic period, indicating the display of these animals by political leaders. The results also urge caution in the use of archaeological remains
for reconstructing the natural ranges of big cats.
Chalcolithic period, indicating the display of these animals by political leaders. The results also urge caution in the use of archaeological remains
for reconstructing the natural ranges of big cats.
Research Interests:
In this article, we examine the growing importance of Jewish archeology for the Jewish population of Palestine/EI under the British Mandate by considering the impact of three formative archaeological excavations. The Tiberias hot springs... more
In this article, we examine the growing importance of Jewish archeology for the Jewish population of Palestine/EI under the British Mandate by considering the impact of three formative archaeological excavations. The Tiberias hot springs excavation (1920–1921) was the first in the country to be carried out by a Jewish research institution, a Jewish researcher, and Jewish laborers, proving the Yishuv’s ability to conduct independent archeological research. It yielded unique symbolic findings and unearthed important relics but did little to inspire ongoing appreciation among
the country’s Jewish population. The excavation at Beit Alfa (1928–1929) created a connection between the pioneers of the Jezreel Valley and Jewish archaeology and expanded its circles of influence. It also presented the world of the Jews of the past in a new light, drew socialist values from it, and was perceived by the Yishuv as part of the pioneering Zionist enterprise. The excavation at Beit Sheʻarim (1936–1940),
coinciding with the 1936–1939 Arab Revolt in Palestine, was woven inseparably into the struggle to establish a Jewish national homeland. The persona and death of Alexander Zaïd were linked to it from the outset, and it was perceived by the Yishuv as a historic event that tethered the past to the present in a concrete manner. The development of the Yishuv’s relationship with Jewish archaeology evolved through a process that may be likened to the building of a ʻbody,ʼ the casting of ʻspirit,ʼ and
the addition of a ʻsoul.ʼ This insight gives us a better understanding of the growth of the role of archaeology in the popular realm of yediʻat haʼaretz (ʻknowing the Landʼ), its use as a national tool during the British Mandate era, and the solidification of its status after the establishment of the State of Israel.
the country’s Jewish population. The excavation at Beit Alfa (1928–1929) created a connection between the pioneers of the Jezreel Valley and Jewish archaeology and expanded its circles of influence. It also presented the world of the Jews of the past in a new light, drew socialist values from it, and was perceived by the Yishuv as part of the pioneering Zionist enterprise. The excavation at Beit Sheʻarim (1936–1940),
coinciding with the 1936–1939 Arab Revolt in Palestine, was woven inseparably into the struggle to establish a Jewish national homeland. The persona and death of Alexander Zaïd were linked to it from the outset, and it was perceived by the Yishuv as a historic event that tethered the past to the present in a concrete manner. The development of the Yishuv’s relationship with Jewish archaeology evolved through a process that may be likened to the building of a ʻbody,ʼ the casting of ʻspirit,ʼ and
the addition of a ʻsoul.ʼ This insight gives us a better understanding of the growth of the role of archaeology in the popular realm of yediʻat haʼaretz (ʻknowing the Landʼ), its use as a national tool during the British Mandate era, and the solidification of its status after the establishment of the State of Israel.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Jewish Studies, Modern Jewish History, Zionism, Zionism (History), and 5 moreHistory of Archaeology, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, British Mandate, Palestine, HIstory of Zionism and Jewish Nationalism, and Middle East. Palestine under mandate, the British policy in Palestine, the Jewish colonization of Palestine.
This article examines the trends in archaeological research and the state of conservation of archaeological sites in Judea and Samaria between 1993 and 2022. The absence of Palestinian-Israeli cooperation resulted in the establishment of... more
This article examines the trends in archaeological research and the state of conservation of archaeological sites in Judea and Samaria between 1993 and 2022. The absence of Palestinian-Israeli cooperation resulted in the establishment of two parallel bodies that have been responsible for the issue, with no connection between them. In the Israeli-controlled territory, academic involvement declined with only a handful of new excavations. In the Palestinian controlled territory, many new studies were conducted with foreign assistance, primarily to strengthen Palestinian national identity. An assessment of the state of conservation indicates significant damage as a result of development and antiquities theft. In this region, where the future remains uncertain, relics of the past and the research of these relics appear to have sustained irreversible damage.
Research Interests:
Major geopolitical and social changes took place in the Southern Levant during the Iron II including the establishment of territorial states, and subsequently, the intervention of the Assyrian and Babylonian empires in local economies.... more
Major geopolitical and social changes took place in the Southern Levant
during the Iron II including the establishment of territorial states, and subsequently, the intervention of the Assyrian and Babylonian empires in local economies. These geopolitical shifts affected local economic and agricultural practices, along with other aspects of daily life and subsistence. This paper presents and analyzes changes in the economic practices of the people living in the Iron II site of Tel Burna in light of the geopolitical changes that occurred throughout the period
during the Iron II including the establishment of territorial states, and subsequently, the intervention of the Assyrian and Babylonian empires in local economies. These geopolitical shifts affected local economic and agricultural practices, along with other aspects of daily life and subsistence. This paper presents and analyzes changes in the economic practices of the people living in the Iron II site of Tel Burna in light of the geopolitical changes that occurred throughout the period
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Techno-stylistic studies in ceramic analysis have largely focused on characterising production groups, based on the similarity of various objects and how they were made. The demographics of potters and the division of labour often remain... more
Techno-stylistic studies in ceramic analysis have largely focused on characterising production groups, based on the similarity of various objects and how they were made. The demographics of potters and the division of labour often remain enigmatic in current chaîne opératoire research. A growing number of biometric studies have demonstrated the potential of fingerprints preserved on ceramic surfaces for classifying the age and sex of potters. In this paper, we use a recently introduced identification matrix to model labour divisions based on 52 fingerprints preserved on a diverse range of objects from the Late Bronze Age II stratum at Tel Burna. The sample includes objects from the recently exposed cultic enclosure. Based on broad ethnographic considerations, women were the principal potters in Canaanite society. Our study tests this hypothesis with regards to who made pottery for cultic use. We identify patterns in age categories and a sexual division of labour for the manufacture of select objects and vessel types. The results lead us to discuss possible effects of imperialism on labour organisation. We provide the first compelling insights into the social relations of pottery production at a time when Egypt exercised hegemony over the city-states of the Southern Levant.
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Burna's prominent summit, encompassed by a 70 × 70 m casemate fortification, has attracted attention since at least the nineteenth century CE. An analysis of the archaeological data collected during ongoing excavations at the tell... more
Burna's prominent summit, encompassed by a 70 × 70 m casemate fortification, has attracted attention since at least the nineteenth century CE. An analysis of the archaeological data collected during ongoing excavations at the tell indicates that these fortifications were built in the late tenth or early ninth century BCE. The fortification of this Judahite stronghold, located on the border with Philistia, remained in use for the next 200 years. Recently, evidence has come to light of a massive undertaking to reinforce and strengthen the western side of the casemate wall in the late eighth century BCE. The authors identify these activities as part of the preparations made to defend the city from Sennacherib's campaign in the region. The site was subsequently re-inhabited, but the fortifications seem to have gone out of use during the last stage of the occupation at the end of the Iron Age.
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The Heritage Center for the Study of The Kingdom of Israel at Ariel University is happy to announce the call for the 2022 Koschitzky Prize for papers by young scholars. Up to three prizes will be awarded: • a first prize of $1000, • a... more
The Heritage Center for the Study of The Kingdom of Israel at Ariel University is happy to announce the call for the 2022 Koschitzky Prize for papers by young scholars.
Up to three prizes will be awarded:
• a first prize of $1000,
• a second prize of $750
• a third prize of $500
The prizes will be awarded for the best published articles, MA theses or PhD dissertations dealing with the Northern Kingdom of Israel or with related topics within its area. The committee will consider only papers/theses/dissertations that were published during the years 2021-2022, or that were accepted for publication in a coming volume of a peer-reviewed journal.
Up to three prizes will be awarded:
• a first prize of $1000,
• a second prize of $750
• a third prize of $500
The prizes will be awarded for the best published articles, MA theses or PhD dissertations dealing with the Northern Kingdom of Israel or with related topics within its area. The committee will consider only papers/theses/dissertations that were published during the years 2021-2022, or that were accepted for publication in a coming volume of a peer-reviewed journal.
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Tel Burna—widely identified as biblical Libnah—and Khirbet el-‘Atar, c. 2 km north, occupy both sides of Naḥal Guvrin in the western Shephelah. At Tel Burna, excavations have revealed a prominent casemate fortification wall that encloses... more
Tel Burna—widely identified as biblical Libnah—and Khirbet el-‘Atar, c. 2 km north, occupy both sides of Naḥal Guvrin in the western Shephelah. At Tel Burna, excavations have revealed a prominent casemate fortification wall that encloses the site’s summit and is confidently dated to the Iron Age II. It was established at the early stages of the Iron Age II and was apparently used for several centuries, albeit with some changes.
Previous surveys at Khirbat el-‘Atar indicated that this site was also occupied during the Iron Age II, and its topography is similar to that of Tel Burna. In November 2020, a highresolution survey was conducted at Khirbat el-‘Atar to better determine the periods of occupation at the site, explore the nature of its enclosed summit, and conduct a preliminary comparison with the Tel Burna excavations. Although no excavation
has been held at Khirbat el-‘Atar, the survey’s results allow us to produce an initial exploratory reconstruction of the site’s occupational sequences during the Iron Age II and enrich our understanding of the geopolitical changes in the region.
Previous surveys at Khirbat el-‘Atar indicated that this site was also occupied during the Iron Age II, and its topography is similar to that of Tel Burna. In November 2020, a highresolution survey was conducted at Khirbat el-‘Atar to better determine the periods of occupation at the site, explore the nature of its enclosed summit, and conduct a preliminary comparison with the Tel Burna excavations. Although no excavation
has been held at Khirbat el-‘Atar, the survey’s results allow us to produce an initial exploratory reconstruction of the site’s occupational sequences during the Iron Age II and enrich our understanding of the geopolitical changes in the region.
Research Interests:
ABSTRACT
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests: Historical Geography, Biblical Archaeology, Borders and Frontiers, Historical Geography of the Biblical World, Archaeology of the Southern Levant, and 3 morec) The Judahite Shephelah and the Valley of Ellah as a Border Area in the Second and First Millennia BCE., Kingdom of Judah, and Judahite Shephelah
It is often assumed that domestic animals in early urban Near Eastern centres either are a reflection of the local pastoral economy, or were raised at a distance by pastoral specialists. In this paper, we test these assumptions through... more
It is often assumed that domestic animals in early urban Near Eastern centres either are a reflection of the local pastoral economy, or were raised at a distance by pastoral specialists. In this paper, we test these assumptions through detailed isotopic analyses (carbon, oxygen and strontium) of caprines (sheep and goat) from Tell es-Safi/Gath, an Early Bronze Age urban centre in central Israel. The isotopic analyses demonstrate that the bulk of the caprines were raised within the general vicinity of the site, suggesting that the majority of food resources were largely produced at the local level, within the territory of the city-state, and not at a distance by specialised pastoralists. It is the rare specimen that comes from a great distance and would have entered the local system through long distance trade networks.
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The outcome of the 1948 war in Palestine resulted not only in the country’s partition between the State of Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan, but also in the division of its archaeological research. The Jordanian Department of Antiquities,... more
The outcome of the 1948 war in Palestine resulted not only in the country’s partition between the State of Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan, but also in the division of its archaeological research. The Jordanian Department of Antiquities, which was responsible for administering archaeological research in the West Bank until 1967, prioritized research in the East Bank over research in the West Bank as a function of broader Jordanian government policy. Most of the research in the West Bank during this period was conducted by foreign institutions and researchers, who were forced to choose between researching in either Israel or Arab countries. Those who chose to research in Israel were not allowed to simultaneously research and excavate in the Jordanian-controlled West Bank. Consequently, the foreign researchers’ choices divided them, placing them on different sides of the Green Line. The excavations in the West Bank piqued the curiosity of the Israelis, who never ceased trying to acquire information about them and their findings. These efforts included secret meetings with foreign researchers, attempts to acquire the Dead Seas scrolls, and the secret transfer to Israel of a few findings for the sake of secret research. For many years, part of their story remained classified in archives, and is shared here for the first time.
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With the emergence of urban culture in the southern Levant in the Early Bronze Age, new types of pottery and ceramic techniques appeared, among them pottery (usually combed) coated with a white material. A selection of sherds from Early... more
With the emergence of urban culture in the southern Levant in the Early Bronze Age, new types of pottery and ceramic techniques appeared, among them pottery (usually combed) coated with a white material. A selection of sherds from Early Bronze strata was studied in an attempt to analyze this material. Using microscopy and various other methods, the authors were able to determine that the white material was a lime-plaster applied to the vessels after firing. The paper contends that the most likely reason for applying the lime-plaster was functional—to decrease permeability and protect the contents of the vessels.
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Page 1. 25 The Iron Age Remains at Tel Nagila Itzhaq Shai Institute of Archaeology Bar Ilan University Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel shai.itzick@gmail.com Aren M. Maeir Institute of Archaeology Bar Ilan University Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel... more
Page 1. 25 The Iron Age Remains at Tel Nagila Itzhaq Shai Institute of Archaeology Bar Ilan University Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel shai.itzick@gmail.com Aren M. Maeir Institute of Archaeology Bar Ilan University Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel arenmaeir@gmail.com ...
Research Interests:
Recent excavations of a large Iron Age II silo at the site of Tell Bornat/Tel Burna yielded many finds from the 8th and 7th cent. B.C.E., the most interesting of which is an impressed jar-handle belonging to the class of 8th cent. B.C.E.... more
Recent excavations of a large Iron Age II silo at the site of Tell Bornat/Tel Burna yielded many finds from the 8th and 7th cent. B.C.E., the most interesting of which is an impressed jar-handle belonging to the class of 8th cent. B.C.E. private stamp seals. The sequence of names on the Tell Bornat /Tel Burna seal – zr followed by hgy – appears in two other seal impressions from Iron Age sites in the Shephelah, which makes this discovery significant for multiple reasons. The Tell Bornat Tel Burna seal is distinct from the others, yet if they belong to the same person, they raise questions regarding the use of multiple stamps by a single individual. Furthermore the existence of multiple seals draws to the forefront issues that involve their historical background along with the identity of their owner. Finally, the seal impression was discovered within a controlled excavation (despite its complicated stratigraphy). The 8th and 7th cent. B.C.E. finds from the silo likely indicate that ...
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In this paper, we present the results of recent research on the potential movement of animals and other goods between Old Kingdom Egypt and the southern Levant during the Early Bronze III (c. 2850-2550 BCE). Several types of goods found... more
In this paper, we present the results of recent research on the potential movement of animals and other goods between Old Kingdom Egypt and the southern Levant during the Early Bronze III (c. 2850-2550 BCE). Several types of goods found at the site within a domestic residential neighbourhood (possibly of merchants) suggest that the inhabitants had extensive trade connections with the surrounding regions. A variety of durable goods derived from a variety of non-local sources, some of which are potentially located in Egypt. Other objects may have had a raw material origin in Egypt, but were modified in the northern Levant, and end up in the southern Levant. Scientific analysis of the normally assumed items, such as domestic livestock, demonstrate that donkey caravans were coming from Egypt during a period when trade supposedly has ceased between Egypt and the southern Levant. Isotopic analysis of donkey and other domestic animals are the first bioarchaeological evidence for the movement of livestock between the two regions-that the animals were born and raised in Egypt, brought to Canaan, and slaughtered soon after their arrival at the site. These results can challenge our traditional assumptions about evidence for direct trade between regions. We should be cautious in our labeling of raw material of artefacts that are non-local before a full scientific analysis is conducted.
Research Interests:
The outcome of the 1948 war in Palestine resulted not only in the country’s partition between the state of Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan but also in the division of its archaeological research. The Jordanian Department of Antiquities,... more
The outcome of the 1948 war in Palestine resulted not only in the country’s partition between the state of Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan but also in the division of its archaeological research. The Jordanian Department of Antiquities, which was responsible for administering archaeological research in the West Bank until 1967, prioritized research in the East Bank over research in the West Bank as a function of broader Jordanian government policy. The bulk of the research in the West Bank during this period was conducted by foreign institutions and researchers, who were forced to choose between researching in Israel and researching in the Arab countries, including the West Bank. Those who chose to research in Israel were denied the ability to simultaneously research and excavate in the West Bank. In this way, the choice of the foreign researchers divided them, placing them on the two different sides of the ‘Green Line’.
The excavations in the West Bank piqued the curiosity of the Israelis, who never ceased trying to acquire information about them and their findings. These efforts included secret meetings with foreign researchers, attempts to acquire the Qumran scrolls, and the secret transfer to Israel of a few findings for the sake of secret research. For many years, part of their story remained classified in archives. It is shared here for the first time.
The excavations in the West Bank piqued the curiosity of the Israelis, who never ceased trying to acquire information about them and their findings. These efforts included secret meetings with foreign researchers, attempts to acquire the Qumran scrolls, and the secret transfer to Israel of a few findings for the sake of secret research. For many years, part of their story remained classified in archives. It is shared here for the first time.
Research Interests:
In the summer of 2015, the Tel Burna Excavation Project in Israel opened Area C, with the goal of better understanding the adjacent agricultural areas. During the 2015 and 2016 seasons, installations of various sizes and shapes were found... more
In the summer of 2015, the Tel Burna Excavation Project in Israel opened Area C, with the goal of better understanding the adjacent agricultural areas. During the 2015 and 2016 seasons, installations of various sizes and shapes were found carved out of the limestone bedrock. Although some Byzantine and Persian occupation is known at the site, survey results from this area demonstrate the predominance of Bronze Age occupations and Iron Age II finds concurrent with excavated areas on the tell. Rock-cut installations revealed exclusively Bronze and Iron Age finds. Finds on the limestone bedrock surface included basalt grinding stones, flint blades, and several incomplete ceramic vessels from the Late Bronze IIB and Iron Age II. Although the lack of architecture and stratified contexts obscures an exact dating, ceramic finds suggest that these agricultural installations were used and reused throughout the occupation of Tel Burna. The results from Area C provide insights into the agricultural economy of the Bronze and Iron Age Shephelah.
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Votive objects are a common part of cult and ritual throughout the world. In this study, we present and discuss two miniature votive vessels and other related ritual deposits from a Late Bronze cultic enclosure at Tel Burna, Israel. We... more
Votive objects are a common part of cult and ritual throughout the
world. In this study, we present and discuss two miniature votive vessels and
other related ritual deposits from a Late Bronze cultic enclosure at Tel Burna,
Israel. We conclude that the Cypriot character of many of the finds (including
one of the two votive objects) might indicate that the cult centre was established
by merchants during the Late Bronze Age.
world. In this study, we present and discuss two miniature votive vessels and
other related ritual deposits from a Late Bronze cultic enclosure at Tel Burna,
Israel. We conclude that the Cypriot character of many of the finds (including
one of the two votive objects) might indicate that the cult centre was established
by merchants during the Late Bronze Age.
Research Interests:
As our project at Tel Burna enters the tenth season of excavations, we have compiled a summary of the archaeological finds from 2009–2018. Tel Burna is located in the southern Shephelah in modern-day southern Israel. The Judean Shephelah... more
As our project at Tel Burna enters the tenth season of excavations, we have compiled a summary of the archaeological finds from 2009–2018. Tel Burna is located in the southern Shephelah in modern-day southern Israel. The Judean Shephelah is comprised of foothills above several east–west valleys that drain the Judean incline in the east to the coastal plain in the west. These valleys were strategic agricultural zones and trade routes throughout history, and in particular during the Late Bronze and Iron Ages. Tel Burna is situated on a natural hill in the middle of Nahal Guvrin, one of the main roads through the Judean Shephelah.
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ביות החמור ) Equus asinus ( החל בצפון–מזרח אפריקה בתקופה הכלקוליתית, באלף החמישי או בראשית האלף הרביעי לפני הספירה, והשפיע רבות על חיי האדם והחברה מאז. המניעים לביות החמור אינם ידועים לנו, ואפשר שהשימוש הראשוני בו היה לצורכי בשר וחלב. בכל... more
ביות החמור ) Equus asinus ( החל בצפון–מזרח אפריקה
בתקופה הכלקוליתית, באלף החמישי או בראשית האלף
הרביעי לפני הספירה, והשפיע רבות על חיי האדם והחברה
מאז. המניעים לביות החמור אינם ידועים לנו, ואפשר
שהשימוש הראשוני בו היה לצורכי בשר וחלב. בכל מקום
שהחמור הופיע בו הייתה לו תרומה עצומה להתפתחות
התרבות והכלכלה, והיכולת לנצל אותו אפשרה שינויים
בדפוסי התחבורה, המסחר והחקלאות. חשיבותו זו
משתקפת גם במקום שתפס בטקסים דתיים. משלהי האלף
הרביעי לפני הספירה נפוץ החמור במצרים ומשם עבר לכל
רחבי המזרח הקדום. עדות לכך הן עצמות החמור, השכיחות
כמעט בכל אתר ואזור במזרח הקדום. בתקופה זו שימש
החמור בהמת משא )בעיקר למסחר ארוך טווח( במצרים,
במסופוטמיה ובלבנט. במאמר שלפנינו נציג את הממצאים
מתקופת הברונזה הקדומה )להלן הבה״ק( III שנחשפו בתל
צפית, ממצאים המשקפים את חשיבותו של החמור בחברה
הארצישראלית בת התקופה
בתקופה הכלקוליתית, באלף החמישי או בראשית האלף
הרביעי לפני הספירה, והשפיע רבות על חיי האדם והחברה
מאז. המניעים לביות החמור אינם ידועים לנו, ואפשר
שהשימוש הראשוני בו היה לצורכי בשר וחלב. בכל מקום
שהחמור הופיע בו הייתה לו תרומה עצומה להתפתחות
התרבות והכלכלה, והיכולת לנצל אותו אפשרה שינויים
בדפוסי התחבורה, המסחר והחקלאות. חשיבותו זו
משתקפת גם במקום שתפס בטקסים דתיים. משלהי האלף
הרביעי לפני הספירה נפוץ החמור במצרים ומשם עבר לכל
רחבי המזרח הקדום. עדות לכך הן עצמות החמור, השכיחות
כמעט בכל אתר ואזור במזרח הקדום. בתקופה זו שימש
החמור בהמת משא )בעיקר למסחר ארוך טווח( במצרים,
במסופוטמיה ובלבנט. במאמר שלפנינו נציג את הממצאים
מתקופת הברונזה הקדומה )להלן הבה״ק( III שנחשפו בתל
צפית, ממצאים המשקפים את חשיבותו של החמור בחברה
הארצישראלית בת התקופה
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Over the last decade, new excavations (see below) and the publication of survey materials (cf. Dagan 2000, 2010, 2011b) have shown that the Late Bronze Age (LB) was a period of great significance in the Shephelah. Unlike most of the... more
Over the last decade, new excavations (see below) and the publication of survey materials (cf. Dagan 2000, 2010, 2011b) have shown that the Late Bronze Age (LB) was a period of great significance in the Shephelah. Unlike most of the southern Levant, settlement in the Shephelah during the LB (56 sites actually increased following the Middle Bronze (MB) II (47 sites). This evidence seems to indicate that the Shephelah was more immune to the destabilizing forces that characterized the southern Levant during the transition between the MB and LB (e.g., Gonen 1984, 1992b, 1992a; Mazar 1990: 239–241; Weinstein 1991; Fischer 2006; Maeir 2010: 165–178). The historical rationale for this relative immunity goes beyond the scope of our paper, however, in what follows we would like to layout the current archaeological landscape of the Shephelah during the LB with a specific emphasis on the 13th century BCE, which to date is the only phase from the LB that we have excavated at Tel Burna. In order to accomplish this, we will compare the excavated results of the main archaeological sites of the Shephelah that were inhabited during the LB to the contemporaneous remains from Tel Burna.
Research Interests:
The Late Bronze Age in the Levant is a period of much interest to archaeologists, historians and biblical scholars. This is a period with intense international relations, rich in ancient sources, which provide historical data for the... more
The Late Bronze Age in the Levant is a period of much interest to archaeologists, historians and biblical scholars. This is a period with intense international relations, rich in ancient sources, which provide historical data for the period, and is a crucial formative period for the peoples and cultures who play central roles in the Hebrew Bible. Recent archaeological research in Israel and surrounding countries has provided new, exciting, and in some cases, groundbreaking finds, interpretations and understanding of this period. The fourteen papers in this volume represent the proceedings of a conference held at Bar-Ilan University in 2014 (with the additional of several invited papers not presented at the conference), which provide both overviews of Late Bronze Age finds from several important sites in Israel and surrounding countries, as well as several synthetic studies on the various issues relating to the period. These papers, by and large, represent a broad view of cuttting edge research in the archaeology of the ancient Levant in general, and on the Late Bronze Age specifically.
Research Interests:
Bronze Age trade in the Eastern Mediterranean is well attested in south Levantine archaeological research, with imported vessels generally playing a significant role in the ceramic assemblage. While the majority of these vessels are found... more
Bronze Age trade in the Eastern Mediterranean is well attested in south
Levantine archaeological research, with imported vessels generally playing
a significant role in the ceramic assemblage. While the majority of these
vessels are found repeatedly at many different sites, there are cases where
a rare find sheds new light on the way in which trade patterns are perceived.
Such is the case with two fully restored pithoi found in a Late Bronze IIB
building at Tel Burna. This paper presents the context in which the pithoi
were uncovered, followed by a study of the vessels themselves, including
their typology, provenance, volume and contents, as well as the nature of
Late Bronze Age trade in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Levantine archaeological research, with imported vessels generally playing
a significant role in the ceramic assemblage. While the majority of these
vessels are found repeatedly at many different sites, there are cases where
a rare find sheds new light on the way in which trade patterns are perceived.
Such is the case with two fully restored pithoi found in a Late Bronze IIB
building at Tel Burna. This paper presents the context in which the pithoi
were uncovered, followed by a study of the vessels themselves, including
their typology, provenance, volume and contents, as well as the nature of
Late Bronze Age trade in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Research Interests: Pottery (Archaeology), Levantine Archaeology, Ceramic Analysis (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Cypriot Bronze Age, and 7 moreMaritime Trade Ceramics (Archaeology), Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Ancient Trade & Commerce (Archaeology), History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Late Bronze Age, Archaeology of the Levant, and Bronze Age Cultural Interconnections and Trade
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Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
The research discusses the administration and centralization of the Kingdom of Judah, which has been the focus of many studies for decades. Here we reassess these issues based on the archaeological finds alongside historical and biblical... more
The research discusses the administration and centralization of the Kingdom of Judah, which has been the focus of many studies for decades. Here we reassess these issues based on the archaeological finds alongside historical and biblical studies. These lead us to suggest that, at first, the administration in Judah was based on local elites that played a major role in the societal and leadership structure of the Judahite Kingdom, and that it was only later that the overarching influence and control of the kingdom from Jerusalem developed.
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Anthropology, and 13 moreSocial Sciences, Near Eastern Studies, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Hebrew Bible, Biblical Studies, Ancient Near East, Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Iron Age, Ancient Near Eastern History, and Hebrew Bible/Old Testament(Social Sciences, Near Eastern Studies, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Hebrew Bible, Biblical Studies, Ancient Near East, Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Iron Age, Ancient Near Eastern History, and Hebrew Bible/Old Testament)
(Social Sciences, Near Eastern Studies, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Hebrew Bible, Biblical Studies, Ancient Near East, Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Iron Age, Ancient Near Eastern History, and Hebrew Bible/Old Testament)
Discussion of the collection of sacrificial donkeys found below domestic floors in the Early Bronze Age levels at Tell es-Safi/Gath, Israel.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Zoology, Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Anthropology, and 15 moreZooarchaeology, Archaeological Science, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Ancient Religion, Ancient Near East, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Ancient Near Eastern History, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Early Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age in the Southern Levant, Equids, and Donkeys(Zooarchaeology, Archaeological Science, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Ancient Religion, Ancient Near East, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Ancient Near Eastern History, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Early Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age in the Southern Levant, Equids, and Donkeys)
(Zooarchaeology, Archaeological Science, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Ancient Religion, Ancient Near East, Bronze Age (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Ancient Near Eastern History, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Early Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age in the Southern Levant, Equids, and Donkeys)
The excavations at Tel Burna (southern Israel) have exposed a large public building where cultic activity took place. The finds that were recovered in this complex include imported artifcats from the eastern Mediterranean. In this paper,... more
The excavations at Tel Burna (southern Israel) have exposed a large public building where cultic activity took place. The finds that were recovered in this complex include imported artifcats from the eastern Mediterranean. In this paper, we will present these finds and discuss how they reflect trade and foreign connections with the eastern Mediterranean to the Southern Levant in the 13th century BCE, as well as their importance for understanding the local material culture and ritual activity.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
In this paper, we propose an alternative analytical method for identifying vessel shaping techniques at the meso-scopic scale to complement current micro and macro methods in ceramic analysis. We demonstrate how this simple and low cost... more
In this paper, we propose an alternative analytical method for identifying vessel shaping techniques at the meso-scopic scale to complement current micro and macro methods in ceramic analysis. We demonstrate how this simple and low cost method permits clear and rapid identification of the signatures indicative of different pottery shaping techniques. The datasets that are generated using this method provide a new perspective on vessel structure for characterising neglected stages of the chaîne opératoire, with the analytical potential to shed further light on economic life, learning frameworks, and group identities. Material from the Early Bronze Age III of Tell es-Safi/Gath, Israel are used to demonstrate the utility of the method on a site assemblage. We identify different combinations of coiling techniques used to make different vessel types and propose that potters are specialising in the production of specific parts of the repertoire.
Research Interests: History, History of Science and Technology, Archaeology, Anthropology, Humanities, and 7 moreSocial Sciences, Pottery (Archaeology), Ceramic Analysis (Archaeology), Biblical Archaeology, Ceramics (Archaeology), Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), and Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology)
It is often assumed that domestic animals in early urban Near Eastern centres either are a reflection of the local pastoral economy, or were raised at a distance by pastoral specialists. In this paper, we test these assumptions through... more
It is often assumed that domestic animals in early urban Near Eastern centres either are a reflection of the local pastoral economy, or were raised at a distance by pastoral specialists. In this paper, we test these assumptions through detailed isotopic analyses (carbon, oxygen and strontium) of caprines (sheep and goat) from Tell es-Safi/Gath, an Early Bronze Age urban centre in central Israel. The isotopic analyses demonstrate that the bulk of the caprines were raised within the general vicinity of the site, suggesting that the majority of food resources were largely produced at the local level, within the territory of the city-state, and not at a distance by specialised pastoralists. It is the rare specimen that comes from a great distance and would have entered the local system through long distance trade networks.
Research Interests:
The Shephelah, known as the breadbasket of the southern Levant, is one of the more extensively investigated regions of the southern Levant in terms of archaeobotanical research. However, studies dealing with agriculture are scarce in... more
The Shephelah, known as the breadbasket of the southern Levant, is one of the more extensively investigated regions of the southern Levant in terms of archaeobotanical research. However, studies dealing with agriculture are scarce in comparison to the archaeobotanical data available. The analysis of the archaeobotanical assemblage in combination with the archaeological remains from Tel Burna will contribute to the investigation of the agriculture of the Shephelah. Several seasons of excavation revealed a cultic complex dating to the Late Bronze Age and an Iron Age II settlement with various agricultural installations such as silos and wine or olive presses. In this paper, we present the agricultural features in conjunction with the systematical archaeobotanical sampling, which enables us to reconstruct the types of crop plants cultivated at the site. Grass pea seeds dominate the assemblage collected from the Late Bronze Age complex, which may point to a connection to the Aegean. The Iron Age assemblage is distinguished by a significantly broad range of crop plants which were cultivated in vicinity of the tell. The archaeological Iron Age remains indicate that the processing of secondary products such as olive oil, wine, or textiles took place within the Iron Age settlement of Tel Burna. This first comprehensive overview describes the character of agricultural production in the Late Bronze Age to Iron Age environmental and geopolitical transformations.
Research Interests:
The definition of faience covers a range of artefacts and technological procedures, though in general it consists of a finely ground quartz or quartz sand, fused together with alkali and lime and coated with an alkali-rich glaze. It was... more
The definition of faience covers a range of artefacts and technological procedures, though in general it consists of a finely ground quartz or quartz sand, fused
together with alkali and lime and coated with an alkali-rich glaze. It was first produced in Egypt and the Near East as early as the 4th millennium BCE1.
Although beads are commonly found in Bronze and Iron Age archaeological contexts in the Levant, their study rarely goes beyond description of shape and color
and has been lacking analytical characterization at the microscopic scale in order to infer on technological aspects. This is especially true for beads dating to the
Early Bronze Age, as most of the technological studies have been conducted on Egyptian and Aegean artifacts mostly dating to Late Bronze Age (New Kingdom,
Minoan culture respectively).
A total of 38 beads securely dated to the Early Bronze Age III (2900-2500 BCE) were unearthed at Tell es-Safi/Gath. The beads were made from various materials;
among semi-precious stones and shells, more than half (23) were identified as faience, and are the focus of this study. The beads were found on floors of various
rooms and buildings. To the best of our knowledge this is the earliest assemblage of faience beads so far studied in depth from the Levant.
In order to infer on technological aspects, such as formation methods and, the use of raw materials and pigments, the beads were subjected to chemical and
microstructure analysis using SEM-EDS, Infra-red spectroscopy and pXRF analyses. The results shed light on the production of early vitreous material during this
period.
together with alkali and lime and coated with an alkali-rich glaze. It was first produced in Egypt and the Near East as early as the 4th millennium BCE1.
Although beads are commonly found in Bronze and Iron Age archaeological contexts in the Levant, their study rarely goes beyond description of shape and color
and has been lacking analytical characterization at the microscopic scale in order to infer on technological aspects. This is especially true for beads dating to the
Early Bronze Age, as most of the technological studies have been conducted on Egyptian and Aegean artifacts mostly dating to Late Bronze Age (New Kingdom,
Minoan culture respectively).
A total of 38 beads securely dated to the Early Bronze Age III (2900-2500 BCE) were unearthed at Tell es-Safi/Gath. The beads were made from various materials;
among semi-precious stones and shells, more than half (23) were identified as faience, and are the focus of this study. The beads were found on floors of various
rooms and buildings. To the best of our knowledge this is the earliest assemblage of faience beads so far studied in depth from the Levant.
In order to infer on technological aspects, such as formation methods and, the use of raw materials and pigments, the beads were subjected to chemical and
microstructure analysis using SEM-EDS, Infra-red spectroscopy and pXRF analyses. The results shed light on the production of early vitreous material during this
period.
Research Interests:
Past human settlement activities have caused changes in soil chemical properties that may persist in the cultural soil archive for a very long time and some of them are practically irreversible. We are studying the question if the... more
Past human settlement activities have caused changes in soil chemical properties that may persist in the cultural soil archive for a very long time and some of them are practically irreversible. We are studying the question if the large-scale mapping of elemental composition based on the surface layer of contemporary soil can reveal spatial patterns corresponding to areas of settlements, which were abandoned even millennia ago.
Our case-study is focused on the archaeological site of Tel Burna, located in the Shephelah region, Israel, and its immediate surroundings, making a survey area of 68 ha. The site is known as the town flourishing mainly in the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age (13th-7th centuries BCE). The heyday of the town was during the 10th – 8th centuries BCE, when its summit was enclosed by a massive limestone wall. Later on the significance of the settlement declined, and the architecture vanished. The place has gradually turned to an uninhabited area, used in the recent period as a pasture. We have measured the chemical composition of 350 samples from the surface soil at and around the site by a portable XRF device as part of an on-going interdisciplinary research project studying this site. The results were analysed by standard statistical methods and also in geographical information systems, which were used for calculating models of elemental distribution patterns across the surveyed area.
In this presentation we discuss the observation that the anthropogenic impact on the chemical composition of soils became quite significant already in times of ancient societies. This human-induced signature was of such magnitude that it can still be detected today, not only in the sub-surface archaeological deposits, but also on the very surface of the present-day landscape. We are able to demonstrate that the nutrients accumulated within the precincts of ancient settlements through the intensive deposition of organic and inorganic waste have been slowly released into local ecosystems and this process of nutrients dispersion will continue in the future. Human activities certainly have (and always have had) a long-term effect on soils, but not all these impacts are negative in the sense of environmental pollution. Especially in the semi-arid Mediterranean ecosystems, where some key nutrients like P, K, S, Zn, Cu
may be deficient in contemporary soils, the immediate surroundings of archaeological sites are clearly enriched from local reservoirs of such elements represented by archaeological sites. This demonstrates that archaeological sites are not only important cultural heritage, but also an essential part of local ecosystems, playing significant yet under-studied role in their long-term sustainability.
Our case-study is focused on the archaeological site of Tel Burna, located in the Shephelah region, Israel, and its immediate surroundings, making a survey area of 68 ha. The site is known as the town flourishing mainly in the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age (13th-7th centuries BCE). The heyday of the town was during the 10th – 8th centuries BCE, when its summit was enclosed by a massive limestone wall. Later on the significance of the settlement declined, and the architecture vanished. The place has gradually turned to an uninhabited area, used in the recent period as a pasture. We have measured the chemical composition of 350 samples from the surface soil at and around the site by a portable XRF device as part of an on-going interdisciplinary research project studying this site. The results were analysed by standard statistical methods and also in geographical information systems, which were used for calculating models of elemental distribution patterns across the surveyed area.
In this presentation we discuss the observation that the anthropogenic impact on the chemical composition of soils became quite significant already in times of ancient societies. This human-induced signature was of such magnitude that it can still be detected today, not only in the sub-surface archaeological deposits, but also on the very surface of the present-day landscape. We are able to demonstrate that the nutrients accumulated within the precincts of ancient settlements through the intensive deposition of organic and inorganic waste have been slowly released into local ecosystems and this process of nutrients dispersion will continue in the future. Human activities certainly have (and always have had) a long-term effect on soils, but not all these impacts are negative in the sense of environmental pollution. Especially in the semi-arid Mediterranean ecosystems, where some key nutrients like P, K, S, Zn, Cu
may be deficient in contemporary soils, the immediate surroundings of archaeological sites are clearly enriched from local reservoirs of such elements represented by archaeological sites. This demonstrates that archaeological sites are not only important cultural heritage, but also an essential part of local ecosystems, playing significant yet under-studied role in their long-term sustainability.
Research Interests:
Since the beginning of archaeological research in the Levant, Late Bronze Age cultic practice has been the focus of many investigations stemming from various avenues of research. With a few exceptions, the core archaeological data has... more
Since the beginning of archaeological research in the Levant, Late Bronze Age cultic practice has been the focus of many investigations stemming from various avenues of research. With a few exceptions, the core archaeological data has come from cultic complexes that were excavated in the early 20th century (e.g. Lachish). This study will present finds that were discovered recently at Tel Burna, a site that is clearly one of the key Late Bronze sites in the Shephelah, as it commands the surrounding landscape and trade routes. In Area B, a massive 13th century BCE complex was exposed with unique finds related to religious practices at the site. The finds include a row of pithoi (some imported) set into pockets in the bedrock; two mask fragments; burnt bones; and unique Cypriot imported pottery, such as a vessel with three cups joined together, which is likely of cultic orientation. Moreover, the building technique of the complex also suggests that this area should be interpreted as a cultic structure. In turn, we will discuss the building plan and the distribution of artifacts in order to gain a better understanding of the people who used it and the deity or deities that were worshiped inside of it. Through these finds we will reflect on our understanding of Late Bronze Age cult, by comparing our excavation data to both the existing archaeological record and recent scientific studies on Late Bronze Age cultic activity.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
The past two seasons of excavation at Tel Burna (map reference 188050, 615320) have provided us with new data on the site during the Late Bronze Age II and the Iron Age II, contributing to the further study of the Judean Shephelah,... more
The past two seasons of excavation at Tel Burna (map reference 188050, 615320) have provided us with new data on the site during the Late Bronze Age II and the Iron Age II, contributing to the further study of the Judean Shephelah, particularly in the region of Wadi Guvrin. In the 2012 and 2013 we continued to expose remains of the Late Bronze Age structure west of the summit and the Iron Age II remains, particularly the fortification system and the Eighth Century BCE structure in the center of the summit. In this the paper we will present the results of the excavations of these remains as well as the silos and the organic remains discovered in them. In addition, the cultic aspects and finds of the Late Bronze Age building will be discussed.
Research Interests:
"Tel Burna is located along the northern bank of Wadi Guvrin and situated in the heart of the Judean Shephelah, one of Israel’s most intensively researched regions. Excavations at the site have, thus far, revealed remains of both the... more
"Tel Burna is located along the northern bank of Wadi Guvrin and situated in the heart of the Judean Shephelah, one of Israel’s most intensively researched regions. Excavations at the site have, thus far, revealed remains of both the Late Bronze and the Iron Ages. A primary target of The Tel Burna Archaeological Project is our focus on social outreach by integrating community and educational projects. In addition to volunteers from all over the world, the dig is open to anyone who wishes to experience archaeology first-hand, to date exposing people from 8 to 90 years old to archaeology.
Recent studies have shown that the application of methods which involve the use of our senses enhances the learning process. Archeology can be used as an incredible education tool, as it integrates the use of various senses in the physical work involved, the touching of the ground and finds, the use of vision to see the changes in sediments, etc. By providing the opportunity to participate in archaeological fieldwork, excavation can be seen as an informal classroom for the study of archaeology, history and anthropology, enabling hands-on experience and actual demonstration of how ancient societies are recreated. Rather than just reading about past events, the discovery of artifacts forms a personal connection with those events, whetting one’s appetite and leading to further study. Furthermore, the excavation of an archaeological site can create a special bond between place and person, inviting further interest in the subject. Our experience has been that each individual who contributes to developing the site, assisting in conservation of different features, such as the Iron Age fortifications or the Late Bronze Age cultic building at Tel Burna, gains a connection which continues through subsequent visits to the site and a personal pride taken in the contribution of discovering finds strengthening roots in the history of the land.
"
Recent studies have shown that the application of methods which involve the use of our senses enhances the learning process. Archeology can be used as an incredible education tool, as it integrates the use of various senses in the physical work involved, the touching of the ground and finds, the use of vision to see the changes in sediments, etc. By providing the opportunity to participate in archaeological fieldwork, excavation can be seen as an informal classroom for the study of archaeology, history and anthropology, enabling hands-on experience and actual demonstration of how ancient societies are recreated. Rather than just reading about past events, the discovery of artifacts forms a personal connection with those events, whetting one’s appetite and leading to further study. Furthermore, the excavation of an archaeological site can create a special bond between place and person, inviting further interest in the subject. Our experience has been that each individual who contributes to developing the site, assisting in conservation of different features, such as the Iron Age fortifications or the Late Bronze Age cultic building at Tel Burna, gains a connection which continues through subsequent visits to the site and a personal pride taken in the contribution of discovering finds strengthening roots in the history of the land.
"
Research Interests:
Tel Burna (map reference 188050, 615320) is located in the Judean Shephela, along the northern banks of Wadi Guvrin, midway between two of the most important Iron entities in the region - Lachish and Tell es-Safi/Gath, on the border with... more
Tel Burna (map reference 188050, 615320) is located in the Judean Shephela, along the northern banks of Wadi Guvrin, midway between two of the most important Iron entities in the region - Lachish and Tell es-Safi/Gath, on the border with the southern coastal plain. The site, settled from the Early Bronze through to the end of the Iron Age, has been under archaeological investigation since 2009, including a high-resolution survey and three seasons of excavation. Thus far, a sequence of Iron Age levels, including surfaces, portions of domestic structures, several silos and the summit’s fortifications have been revealed, along with a Late Bronze Age IIB building, where several cultic finds have been found. This lecture will focus on the finds from the excavations, and what they teach us about the site’s history. Further considerations on the importance of the site on a regional level and as a border town – on the area of contact between Philistines and Judeans in the Iron Age – will be reflected on, in association with the excavation results. Several questions on this topic will be addressed: the movement of the border in different periods; how sites along the border were affected by this movement; how did the material culture at sites on the border differ from those inland, due to the proximity to the other entity; and what can we learn from the border sites about Philistine-Judean relations in different periods.
Research Interests: Archaeology, Theology, Biblical Studies, Survey (Archaeological Method & Theory), Biblical Archaeology, and 11 moreLate Bronze Age archaeology, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Mediterranean archaeology, Iron Age, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Late Bronze Age, Commensality, c) The Judahite Shephelah and the Valley of Ellah as a Border Area in the Second and First Millennia BCE., Phoenician trade, Ritual Practices, and Hebrew Bible/Old Testament(Late Bronze Age archaeology, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Mediterranean archaeology, Iron Age, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Late Bronze Age, Commensality, c) The Judahite Shephelah and the Valley of Ellah as a Border Area in the Second and First Millennia BCE., Phoenician trade, Ritual Practices, and Hebrew Bible/Old Testament)
(Late Bronze Age archaeology, Late Bronze Age archaeology, Mediterranean archaeology, Iron Age, Protohistoric Iberian Peninsula, Late Bronze Age, Commensality, c) The Judahite Shephelah and the Valley of Ellah as a Border Area in the Second and First Millennia BCE., Phoenician trade, Ritual Practices, and Hebrew Bible/Old Testament)
Tel Burna is located in the Judean Shephelah, along the northern banks of Wadi Guvrin, slightly north of Lachish. The clear prominence of the site in the Iron Age is most notable when viewing the fortifications on the summit, which based... more
Tel Burna is located in the Judean Shephelah, along the northern banks of Wadi Guvrin, slightly north of Lachish. The clear prominence of the site in the Iron Age is most notable when viewing the fortifications on the summit, which based on the excavations can be dated to the Iron Age II. It has been proposed that the site should be identified with Biblical Libnah, one of the Levitical cities (Josh. 21:13) and a Judean border site.
Two seasons of excavation at the site have painted a picture of the importance of the city as a border town in Judah in the Iron Ages. In this lecture, we will present the findings of the first seasons of excavation, and reflect on the location of the city along the border with Philistia and how this affected the material culture. Comparisons will be made with both Philistine and inland Judean sites.
Two seasons of excavation at the site have painted a picture of the importance of the city as a border town in Judah in the Iron Ages. In this lecture, we will present the findings of the first seasons of excavation, and reflect on the location of the city along the border with Philistia and how this affected the material culture. Comparisons will be made with both Philistine and inland Judean sites.
Research Interests:
Tel Burna (map reference 188050, 615320) is located in the Judean Shephela, along the northern banks of Wadi Guvrin, slightly north of Lachish. According to surveys conducted in the region, it seems that the site was established in the... more
Tel Burna (map reference 188050, 615320) is located in the Judean Shephela, along the northern banks of Wadi Guvrin, slightly north of Lachish. According to surveys conducted in the region, it seems that the site was established in the Early Bronze Age I, and settled intensively in the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age. This presentation will focus on the role of Tel Bruna in its adjunct region in order to understand the settlement pattern and hierarchy through the Bronze and Iron Ages. This will be based mostly on the results of the survey of the site and comparing it to regional surveys as well as excavations (e.g. Lachish, Zayit, Maresha, Tel Goded) and biblical references.
Research Interests:
The poster presents briefly the historical background of the site and the history of research. It will also show the comparison between different survey methods that were utilized in order to develop a survey methodology for a... more
The poster presents briefly the historical background of the site and the history of research. It will also show the comparison between different survey methods that were utilized in order to develop a survey methodology for a multi-periodical site. An in depth section will deal with the results of the 3 seasons of excavations including the Late Bronze Age remains and the Iron Age II fortification and strata that were exposed. Last but not least, we will emphasize our view of community archaeology.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Cyprus, the Sea Peoples and the Eastern Mediterranean: Regional Perspectives of Continuity and Change (= Scripta Mediterranea 27–28 [2006–2007]), edited by T.P. Harrison. Toronto: Canadian Institute for Mediterranean Studies, 2008. Bulletin of the American Schools of Oriental Research 359: 85-88.more
Research Interests:
This paper discusses a krater recently discovered in a cultic building at Tel Burna in the Shephelah. Of special interest is the krater’s relatively well-preserved deco- ration containing multiple nature scenes related to the so-called... more
This paper discusses a krater recently discovered in a cultic building at Tel Burna in the Shephelah. Of special interest is the krater’s relatively well-preserved deco- ration containing multiple nature scenes related to the so-called tree of life or sacred tree motif. The krater’s physical description and archaeological context and the decoration’s relationship to relevant comparanda are explored in order to elucidate the significance of its iconography. In light of this discussion, we conclude that the decoration includes an abstract representation of a Canaanite goddess as a “pubis of life” variation of the “tree of life” motif on the krater as a votive vessel in the Late Bronze Age cult.
Research Interests:
Four figurines were discovered in Late Bronze Age IIB Tel Burna in the Judean Shephelah. The figurines come from a large public building that probably had a cultic function. These include a rare Revadim-type plaque figurine, a nude female... more
Four figurines were discovered in Late Bronze Age IIB Tel Burna in the Judean Shephelah. The figurines come from a large public building that probably had a cultic function. These include a rare Revadim-type plaque figurine, a nude female plaque figurine, a Mycenaean- style bull figurine, and the head of an equine figurine. Their iconography represents a cross section of Egyptian, Mycenaean, Mesopotamian, and local traditions, illustrating the syncretism of Canaanite religion at the site.
Research Interests: History, Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Levantine Archaeology, and 10 moreBiblical Studies, Biblical Archaeology, Egypt and Canaan, Terracotta Figurines, Anthropomorphic Figurines, Archaeology of the Southern Levant, Ancient Canaanite Religion, History and Archaeology of Canaan, Archaeology of the southern Levant in the Bronze Age, and Canaanite Art and Iconography
Research Interests: History, Ancient History, Historical Geography, Archaeology, Israel Studies, and 9 moreArchaeology of Ancient Israel, Biblical Studies, Biblical Archaeology, Ancient Near East, Iron Age (Archaeology), Bronze and Iron Ages in Eastern Mediterranean (Archaeology), Iron Age, Ancient Seals and Sealings, and Late Bronze Age
Announcing the publication of a new online, open access journal: Archaeology and Text: A Journal for the Integration of Material Culture with Written Documents in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East Aims and Scope The study of... more
Announcing the publication of a new online, open access journal:
Archaeology and Text: A Journal for the Integration of Material Culture with Written Documents in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East
Aims and Scope
The study of the human past has conventionally been divided between two distinct academic disciplines depending upon the kind of evidence under investigation: "history", with its focus on written records, and "archaeology", which analyzes the remains of material culture. Archaeology and Text: A Journal for the Integration of Material Culture with Written Documents in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East aims to bridge this disciplinary divide by providing an international forum for scholarly discussions which integrate the studies of material culture with written documents. Interdisciplinary by nature, the journal offers a platform for professional historians and archaeologists alike to critically investigate points of confluence and divergence between the textual and the artifactual. We seek contributions from scholars working in the ancient Mediterranean and Near East. Contributions with a theoretical or methodological focus on the interface between archaeology and text are especially encouraged. By publishing all of its articles online, Archaeology and Text seeks to disseminate its published papers immediately after the peer-review and editorial processes have been completed, providing timely publication and convenient access.
Editors-in-chief:
David B. Small (Lehigh University)
Yonatan Adler (Ariel University)
Former Editor-in-chief (Vol. 1): Itzick Shai (Ariel University)
Archaeology and Text: A Journal for the Integration of Material Culture with Written Documents in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East
Aims and Scope
The study of the human past has conventionally been divided between two distinct academic disciplines depending upon the kind of evidence under investigation: "history", with its focus on written records, and "archaeology", which analyzes the remains of material culture. Archaeology and Text: A Journal for the Integration of Material Culture with Written Documents in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East aims to bridge this disciplinary divide by providing an international forum for scholarly discussions which integrate the studies of material culture with written documents. Interdisciplinary by nature, the journal offers a platform for professional historians and archaeologists alike to critically investigate points of confluence and divergence between the textual and the artifactual. We seek contributions from scholars working in the ancient Mediterranean and Near East. Contributions with a theoretical or methodological focus on the interface between archaeology and text are especially encouraged. By publishing all of its articles online, Archaeology and Text seeks to disseminate its published papers immediately after the peer-review and editorial processes have been completed, providing timely publication and convenient access.
Editors-in-chief:
David B. Small (Lehigh University)
Yonatan Adler (Ariel University)
Former Editor-in-chief (Vol. 1): Itzick Shai (Ariel University)
Research Interests: Ancient Egyptian Religion, History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, and 65 moreEgyptology, Experimental Archaeology, Maritime Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Roman History, Historical Archaeology, Public Archaeology, Egyptian Art and Archaeology, Material Culture Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Hellenistic History, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Levantine Archaeology, Egyptian Archaeology, Hebrew Bible, Archaeological Method & Theory, Biblical Studies, History (Archaeology), Archaeology of Southern Italy, Archaeology of Religion, Funerary Archaeology, Egyptian History, Ancient Religion, History of the Mediterranean, Biblical Archaeology, Archaeology of pre-Roman Italy, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Greek Archaeology, Ancient Near East, Ancient Greek Religion, Roman military archaeology, Linguistics and Biblical Languages, Archaeological Theory, Ancient myth and religion, Ancient Greek History, Archaeological Chemistry, Archaeology of Ritual and Magic, Late Roman Archaeology, Bible, Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Roman numismatics and archaeology, Hellenistic and Roman Asia Minor, Hellenistic Roman and Byzantine Archaeology in the Land of Israel, Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, New Kingdom (Egyptology), Material Culture, Ancient Egyptian History, Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology, History of Archaeology, Ancient Near Eastern History, Roman Provincial Archaeology, Roman Near East, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Ancient Egypt, Integration of Archaeology and Texts, Classics: Ancient History and Archaeology, History and archaeology, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Archaeology of the Levant, Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Roman Archaeology, Archeology, and Bible History and Archaeology(Egyptology, Experimental Archaeology, Maritime Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Roman History, Historical Archaeology, Public Archaeology, Egyptian Art and Archaeology, Material Culture Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Hellenistic History, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Levantine Archaeology, Egyptian Archaeology, Hebrew Bible, Archaeological Method & Theory, Biblical Studies, History (Archaeology), Archaeology of Southern Italy, Archaeology of Religion, Funerary Archaeology, Egyptian History, Ancient Religion, History of the Mediterranean, Biblical Archaeology, Archaeology of pre-Roman Italy, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Greek Archaeology, Ancient Near East, Ancient Greek Religion, Roman military archaeology, Linguistics and Biblical Languages, Archaeological Theory, Ancient myth and religion, Ancient Greek History, Archaeological Chemistry, Archaeology of Ritual and Magic, Late Roman Archaeology, Bible, Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Roman numismatics and archaeology, Hellenistic and Roman Asia Minor, Hellenistic Roman and Byzantine Archaeology in the Land of Israel, Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, New Kingdom (Egyptology), Material Culture, Ancient Egyptian History, Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology, History of Archaeology, Ancient Near Eastern History, Roman Provincial Archaeology, Roman Near East, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Ancient Egypt, Integration of Archaeology and Texts, Classics: Ancient History and Archaeology, History and archaeology, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Archaeology of the Levant, Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Roman Archaeology, Archeology, and Bible History and Archaeology)
(Egyptology, Experimental Archaeology, Maritime Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, Roman History, Historical Archaeology, Public Archaeology, Egyptian Art and Archaeology, Material Culture Studies, Landscape Archaeology, Hellenistic History, Archaeology of Ancient Israel, Levantine Archaeology, Egyptian Archaeology, Hebrew Bible, Archaeological Method & Theory, Biblical Studies, History (Archaeology), Archaeology of Southern Italy, Archaeology of Religion, Funerary Archaeology, Egyptian History, Ancient Religion, History of the Mediterranean, Biblical Archaeology, Archaeology of pre-Roman Italy, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Greek Archaeology, Ancient Near East, Ancient Greek Religion, Roman military archaeology, Linguistics and Biblical Languages, Archaeological Theory, Ancient myth and religion, Ancient Greek History, Archaeological Chemistry, Archaeology of Ritual and Magic, Late Roman Archaeology, Bible, Archaeology of Roman Hispania, Roman numismatics and archaeology, Hellenistic and Roman Asia Minor, Hellenistic Roman and Byzantine Archaeology in the Land of Israel, Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East, Ancient Near East (Archaeology), Mediterranean archaeology, New Kingdom (Egyptology), Material Culture, Ancient Egyptian History, Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology, History of Archaeology, Ancient Near Eastern History, Roman Provincial Archaeology, Roman Near East, History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, Ancient Egypt, Integration of Archaeology and Texts, Classics: Ancient History and Archaeology, History and archaeology, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Archaeology of the Levant, Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Roman Archaeology, Archeology, and Bible History and Archaeology)
Qamma 2 (2019). Publications of the Institute of Archaeology of Bar-Ilan University (English part)
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Several methods have been applied to understand the typologies, functions and provenances of stone tools in Ancient Near East, but the digital network analysis between stones, artefacts and spaces is still uncommon. Network analysis which... more
Several methods have been applied to understand the typologies, functions and provenances of stone tools in Ancient Near East, but the digital network analysis between stones, artefacts and spaces is still uncommon. Network analysis which has been conducting in the archaeological field is a potential method and mainly applies to understand the distribution of ancient sites, routes network under certain geographical settings. The opened-space where the assemblage of stone tools found at Area B1, Tel Burna from 13th BC is suggested as a Canaanite cultic enclosure with sufficient finds for practicing rites. The purpose of the poster is to explore how the network analysis can also be applied within several excavating squares and to build the network relation between stone tools. The method sets the distribution of stone tools as a basic pattern, calculates the optimizing X-and Y-coordinate and generates networks basing on the typologies, functions and relative positions of stone tools. The algorithm of the calculation uses Python as the coding tool with multiply built-in packages. Results will show the relations between stone tools and other artefacts, the similarity and difference between patterns of distribution and networks, and bring an advance insight into how the space and human cultic activities related to each other within an opened cultic enclosure at Area B1, Tel Burna during 13th century BC.