Alphabetic writing is one of the principal features of Western culture. Our knowledge of the early history, development and spread of the alphabet is constantly changing. This introduction is the author’s personal way of introducing this field of study on the basis of the evidence available to date. The result -- a most enjoyable and informative book. . . an excellent introduction to epigraphy and paleography of ancient Semitic languages . . . the book, which contains a wealth of information compiled into a simple to understand format. The present study attempts to trace the evolution of alphabetic writing from its inception around 1700 B.C. up to the crystallization of modern scripts. Although the alphabet was used primarily by the West Semites, the book deals mainly with the history of West Semitic writing. But it does not limit itself to it: the process of its adoption and early evolution among other peoples -- i.e. South Semites, Greeks, Iranians and others -- is considered as well. Intended for readers with no previous knowledge of Semitic epigraphy and paleography, this book does not however avoid the discussion of scientific problems. On the contrary, in addition to describing the story of the alphabet in antiquity, the book deals with a series of questions which are the subject of scholarly controversy. Although this work in general follows mainly W. F. Albright and F.M. Cross, it quite often differs with their views or at least views their conclusions with a degree of criticism or reservation. The book is supplied with a large number of illustrations of various scripts.

Early History of the Alphabet: An Introduction to West Semitic Epigraphy and Palaeography

Reference

Naveh, Joseph

Words, Language & Grammar

Varda Books

Amulets and magic bowls are part of a long-standing tradition of magic in the Near East. They were used to protect the home and inhabitants of the home from evil and disease as well as to arouse love. Texts taken from these items provide insight into the society, religion, and culture of pagans and Jews during the early Christian era which corresponds to that of the Talmudic period. The authors provide reliable material for a scholarly study of life during this period.

Amulets and Magic Bowls: Aramaic Incantations of Late Antiquity

Crafts, Hobbies & Home

Antiques & Collectibles

Since the publication of "Amulets and Magic Bowls: Aramaic Incantations of Late Antiquity," in 1985, several additional magic texts came to the attention of the authors. This volume comprises a new collection of seventeen Palestinian metal amulets, accompanied by 14 Babylonian incantations on earthenware bowls, and 21 magic texts from the Cairo Geniza. As in "Amulets and Magic Bowls," all texts are presented with translations, commentaries and photographs. The amulets are also reproduced in facsimile drawings. The book contains an introduction which deals with the relationship between liturgy and magic, as well as between medicine and magic. There is also a glossary and detailed indices. The study of these incantations provides an insight into the rich religious life and practices of common people in the Talmudic period and adds greatly to our knowledge of Palestinian and Babylonian Aramaic usage.

Magic Spells and Formulae: Aramaic Incantations of Late Antiquity

Religion & Spirituality

Judaism

Alphabetic writing is one of the principal features of Western culture. Our knowledge of the early history, development and spread of the alphabet is constantly changing. This introduction is the author’s personal way of introducing this field of study on the basis of the evidence available to date. The result -- a most enjoyable and informative book. . . an excellent introduction to epigraphy and paleography of ancient Semitic languages . . . the book, which contains a wealth of information compiled into a simple to understand format. The present study attempts to trace the evolution of alphabetic writing from its inception around 1700 B.C. up to the crystallization of modern scripts. Although the alphabet was used primarily by the West Semites, the book deals mainly with the history of West Semitic writing. But it does not limit itself to it: the process of its adoption and early evolution among other peoples -- i.e. South Semites, Greeks, Iranians and others -- is considered as well. Intended for readers with no previous knowledge of Semitic epigraphy and paleography, this book does not however avoid the discussion of scientific problems. On the contrary, in addition to describing the story of the alphabet in antiquity, the book deals with a series of questions which are the subject of scholarly controversy. Although this work in general follows mainly W. F. Albright and F.M. Cross, it quite often differs with their views or at least views their conclusions with a degree of criticism or reservation. The book is supplied with a large number of illustrations of various scripts

Early History of the Alphabet

First publication of a group of thirty documents on leather in Imperial Aramaic, dating to the fourth century B.C.E. and reflecting the practice of the Achaemenian administration in Bactria and Sogdiana. Eighteen inscribed wooden sticks, for use as tallies, dated to the third year of King Darius Ill, are also included. They are considered to be the second most important discovery of its type known. Two of the leather documents relate to the fall of the Persian Empire: one mentions Bessus, the usurper of the Persian throne, travelling to Warnu (Greek Aornos); the other is a long list of supplies in the year 7 of King Alexander. In addition to their valuable historical contents, the documents enrich our knowledge of Aramaic and its lexicon. The documents are given in Aramaic with translation, introduction, commentary and glossary. The volume is lavishly illustrated.

Aramaic Documents from Ancient Bactria (Studies in the Khalili Collection)

Arts & Photography

Shaked, Shaul

History & Criticism

Khalili Collections

Masada I: The Yigael Yadin Excavations 1963-1965 Final Reports

History

Yadin, Yigael

Meshorer, Yaacov

Middle East

Biblical Archaeology Society

Alphabetic writing is one of the principal features of Western culture. Our knowledge of the early history, development and spread of the alphabet is constantly changing. This introduction to West Semitic epigraphy and paleography is the author's personal way of introducing this field of study on the basis of the evidence available to date.

Early History of the Alphabet: An Introduction to West Semitic Epigraphy and Paleography (Ancient Near East)

Historical Study & Educational Resources

Brill Academic Pub

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