Podcasts about near eastern

SummaryIn this conversation, Hakeem Bradley shares his journey from growing up in the 5% Nation to becoming a biblical scholar. He discusses the contrasting views on scripture between Islam and Christianity, his transition from pastoral ministry to biblical research, and the significance of Genesis in understanding powers and principalities. Hakeem emphasizes the importance of equity in the creation narrative and explores the cultural context of Genesis in relation to ancient Near Eastern texts. He also highlights the influence of Genesis on the Epistle of James and the role of the church in spiritual warfare. In this conversation, Hakeem Bradley and Danielle Strickland explore the themes of spiritual warfare, the power of love and generosity, the concept of original sin as passive participation, and the awakening potential of scripture. They discuss the authority given to humanity, the wisdom from above, and the true nature of power as demonstrated by Jesus. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of living generously and the transformative power of love in combating darkness.Takeaways* Hakeem Bradley's journey from the 5% Nation to biblical scholarship is profound.* The Bible can be a tool for liberation, not oppression.* Understanding the cultural context of scripture is crucial.* Genesis sets the foundation for understanding powers and principalities.* Equity is inherent in the creation narrative of Genesis.* The line of the woman and the line of the snake represent spiritual allegiances.* The wisdom from above is accessible to all believers.* The church has a role in crushing spiritual oppression.* Hakeem's work aims to equip families for biblical literacy.* The narrative of Genesis challenges patriarchal interpretations. We join in with Christ's mission to defeat darkness.* Living generously and hospitably is a form of spiritual warfare.* Original sin is about passive participation in evil.* Scripture serves as an awakening tool for believers.* Authority was given to humanity to rule wisely.* The snake symbolizes twisted authority in creation.* True power is often perceived as weakness in the world.* Choosing not to retaliate reflects true strength.* The wisdom of God is accessible to us now.* Engaging with scripture shapes our understanding and actions.About HakeemHakeem is a biblical scholar, teacher, blogger, and researcher. He has served various communities across the United States and Canada through preaching, teaching, and research. He holds a Master's of Theological and Biblical Studies from Western Seminary and is a Ph. D. candidate in New Testament Studies at Ridley College (Melbourne). He works as an Associate Scholar at BibleProject, and serves as the chaplain for the College Park Skyhawks. Lastly, he is an Academic Fellow with the Center for Hebraic Thought. Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

Here's a polished episode description based on Michael Hudson's blog post:

What really happened in Sodom and Gomorrah? Was it about immorality, or something deeper?Dr. Dylan Johnson, expert in ancient Near Eastern law and the Hebrew Bible, joins Pastor Johnny Ova of Sound of Heaven Church to explore the historical, literary, and cultural context of this iconic story. From Mesopotamian parallels to the evolving biblical traditions, this conversation will challenge what you thought you knew.It's now time to Dig In!Support the show

Jason Olson and Jabra Ghneim join Greg once again as attacks from both Israel and Iran continue. Who is obviously in the right? Where does it go from here? What does the rest of the Middle East really think about this? Trump goes bold. Doubles down. Jason Olson holds his Ph.D. in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies from Brandeis University (2016). His first book, “America's Road to Jerusalem,” was released by Lexington Books in 2018. He researched the role of Christian Zionism in the development of a pro-Israel U.S. foreign policy. His second book, “The Burning Book,” won the 2022 Association for Mormon Letters award in creative nonfiction. In his doctoral studies, Jason held fellowships with The Schusterman Center for Israel Studies, Crown Center for Middle East Studies, Hertog Global Strategy Initiative at Columbia University, Israel Institute, American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise, and the American Jewish Archives. In 2013, he served as teaching fellow for the Summer Institute for Israel Studies (Brandeis), where he educated an international group of scholars in Israel and the Palestinian territories. Jabra Ghneim is an educator, translator, and researcher with deep expertise in language services, refugee integration, and Middle Eastern affairs. A native Arabic and English speaker, he has led major translation and localization efforts for faith-based organizations and U.S. government clients, including curriculum design, interpretation, and training for Arabic, Farsi, Pashto, and other critical languages. For over three decades, he has served as the lead Arabic interpreter and translator for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, translating sacred texts, including the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, into Arabic. He holds a PhD in Educational Inquiry, Measurement, and Evaluation and an MSc in Economics from Brigham Young University, as well as a BA in Economics and Finance from Yarmouk University in Jordan. Jabra is passionate about cultural bridge-building, Jewish-Arab relations, and the power of language to connect people across divides. Website- www.cwicmedia.com

Psalm 82 presents a striking scene: God presiding over a council of other divine beings. But what does this really mean? In this episode, we explore the ancient Near Eastern backdrop of this mysterious psalm—drawing from Canaanite and Ugaritic texts that may shed new light on its origins.

Unexpectedly, given that the only women described in the Book of Proverbs so far have been an adulteress and a quarrelsome wife, the book's finale is a eulogy to a character referred to as "the Wife of Noble Character".This woman is a striking example of smartness, industry, economy, care and moral support, and also provides a fascinating insight into the independence of ancient Near Eastern woman at a time when many assume wives were second class citizens. Instead, this woman is as essential as she is fabulous.

Say “Holy Spirit” and most picture a dove or gentle fire. But Anthony SooHoo, S.J., turns to a wilder Celtic image: a honking goose in flight—untamed and impossible to ignore. It's how he preaches Pentecost: the Spirit who startles us into new life and calls the church to fly together—rather than just waddle along. For the Solemnity of Pentecost, Year C, Anthony draws on the physics of flight and a Kierkegaardian parable about ducks. In conversation with host Ricardo da Silva, S.J., he explores imagination in preaching and the art of going off-script—especially when the Spirit honks. Guest: Anthony SooHoo, S.J., professor of ancient Near Eastern studies at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome and pastoral staff member at Caravita, an international English-language Catholic community. Get daily Scripture reflections and support “Preach” by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠ “Preach” is made possible through the generous support of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, a project of Lilly Endowment Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Oldest Stories, we return to the Armenian Highlands in 786 BCE to witness the death of King Menua of Urartu (Biainilli) and the rise of his son Argishti I—a transition that begins the golden age of the Urartian kingdom. Explore the geopolitics, warfare, urbanization, and social engineering of one of the most impressive and least understood Iron Age empires.We trace Argishti I's ruthless expansion across Anatolia and the Caucasus, highlighting his staggering military campaigns—including the mass deportation of over 50,000 captives from the Diauehi—and the founding of major cities like Argishtikhinili and Erebuni (modern Yerevan). His reign marks a peak of Urartian power, economic integration, and cultural homogenization, supported by a complex bureaucracy and a militarized frontier strategy aimed at rival Assyria.The episode also dives into Argishti's successor, Sarduri II, and the approaching storm of Tiglath-Pileser III's Assyrian military revolution. We examine the collapse of Urartu's frontier buffer, the mysterious succession crisis involving multiple kings named Rusa, and the kingdom's eventual unraveling under Cimmerian pressure and internal fragmentation. From glorious conquest to slow collapse, we recount the full arc of Urartian dominance, with attention to archaeological gaps, historiographic debates, and ancient sources.Whether you're interested in Iron Age imperialism, ancient warfare, Near Eastern archaeology, or the origins of Armenian civilization, this episode offers deep insight into one of history's great highland kingdoms.#Urartu #Argishti #AncientArmenia #IronAge #OldestStoriesPodcast #Assyria #TiglathPileser #AncientHistory #Biainilli #Diauehi #Etiuni #Cimmerians #HistoryPodcast #NearEast #Yerevan #Archaeology #AncientWarfare #Khaldi #NeoHittites #Mesopotamia #KingsAndConquests #AncientEmpiresI am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

Rabbi Andy Shugerman is a multifaceted Jewish educator and development professional currently serving as the inaugural Development Director at Congregation Beth Shalom in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In this role, he focuses on enhancing the synagogue's fundraising initiatives and community engagement.Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Rabbi Shugerman earned a Bachelor's degree in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies from Brandeis University, where he was a Schiff Undergraduate Fellow. He furthered his studies at the Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem and worked for the Masorti/Conservative Movement in Israel. Rabbi Shugerman received rabbinic ordination and a Master's degree in Jewish Education from The Jewish Theological Seminary in New York in 2009 .Before joining Beth Shalom, Rabbi Shugerman held several significant positions within the Jewish community. He served as the Executive Director of the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs (FJMC) and as the lead professional for Men of Reform Judaism (MRJ). Additionally, he worked as a development consultant and teacher at The Jewish Theological Seminary. 

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comHow should we read the Old Testament today? In this episode, Faithful Politics dives deep with Dr. John H. Walton, a leading Old Testament scholar and professor emeritus at Wheaton College. With decades of research on ancient Near Eastern contexts, Walton discusses why understanding the cultural river of the Bible's original audience is crucial for accurate interpretation. From Genesis to the Pentateuch, he challenges us to rethink common assumptions about creation, divine community, and moral frameworks in the Hebrew Scriptures. Tune in as we explore how cultural backgrounds shape biblical authority and what it means to read the Old Testament as its ancient readers would have.Guest Bio:Dr. John H. Walton is a distinguished Old Testament scholar and professor emeritus at Wheaton College. He has authored numerous influential works, including "The Lost World of Genesis 1," "The Lost World of Adam and Eve," and "The Lost World of Scripture," which explore the Bible through its ancient Near Eastern context. Walton's work emphasizes understanding Scripture as its original audience would have, encouraging modern readers to grapple with its historical and cultural frameworks. Support the show

In this follow-up to our previous lesson on the symbolism of John Chapter 2, we examine the rich cultural and spiritual backdrop of the Wedding at Cana. What did John mean when he said it was the “third day”? At first glance, this might seem like a small detail, but when viewed through the lens of Jewish wedding traditions, it opens up a powerful layer of meaning that brings the Cana scene to life. In this lesson, we'll explore: - The cultural significance of weddings on the third day of the week in ancient Jewish practice - How these traditions align beautifully with the wedding at Cana - The symbolism behind the miracle of water turned into wine. - Parallels to ancient Near Eastern beliefs—especially how miracles like this one were seen as signs of a god's presence, as in the case of the Greek god Dionysus Ultimately, we'll see how this first “sign” reveals God's transformative power through Jesus, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Geopolitical analyst Jacob Shapiro discusses the transition to a multipolar world order, the state of American Empire, the emergence of new power centers, and the notion of a looming World War III. He comments on Trump's recent foray into the Middle East, China's strategic engagement in Latin America, and the fate of Mexico. He offers some tips on the way forward. Watch on BitChute / Brighteon / Rumble / Substack / YouTube Geopolitics & Empire · Jacob Shapiro: We Are Entering a Multipolar Geopolitical Environment #556 *Support Geopolitics & Empire! Become a Member https://geopoliticsandempire.substack.com Donate https://geopoliticsandempire.com/donations Consult https://geopoliticsandempire.com/consultation **Visit Our Affiliates & Sponsors! Above Phone https://abovephone.com/?above=geopolitics easyDNS (15% off with GEOPOLITICS) https://easydns.com Escape Technocracy course (15% off with GEOPOLITICS) https://escapethetechnocracy.com/geopolitics PassVult https://passvult.com Sociatates Civis (CitizenHR, CitizenIT, CitizenPL) https://societates-civis.com Wise Wolf Gold https://www.wolfpack.gold/?ref=geopolitics Websites Jacob Shapiro https://jacobshapiro.com X https://x.com/JacobShap Substack https://jashap.substack.com Bespoke https://bespokegroup.io About Jacob Shapiro Jacob Shapiro is a geopolitical analyst who provides strategic guidance to families, investors, and corporations. He is Director of Research at The Bespoke Group, a U.S.-based wealth strategy firm that applies generational thinking to the preservation and growth of generational wealth for families around the world. His approach blends rigorous, empathetic analysis with deep confidence in human agency and the transformative power of new ideas. Jacob is a global thought leader on geopolitics and its impact on everything from global markets to supply chains. A prolific public speaker, Jacob delivers frequent keynote presentations and tailored corporate briefings. His insights help audiences and c-suites across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world. Jacob also hosts “The Jacob Shapiro” podcast, which features interviews with subject matter experts in geopolitics, technology, markets, and other fields. He holds a master's degree with distinction from Oxford University and a bachelor's degree in Near Eastern studies from Cornell University. He lives in New Orleans with his wife and two daughters. When he's not tweeting at 4 a.m. about the latest international developments or commodities prices, you might find him at a basketball court near you doing his best Larry Bird impersonation at a pickup game. *Podcast intro music is from the song "The Queens Jig" by "Musicke & Mirth" from their album "Music for Two Lyra Viols": http://musicke-mirth.de/en/recordings.html (available on iTunes or Amazon)

In this episode of Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro, the hosts dive into The Unseen Realm by Michael Heiser, focusing on Old Testament themes. Heiser's “Deuteronomy 32 worldview” explores a divine council of spiritual beings (Elohim) surrounding God, distinct from polytheism. Key passages like Psalm 82:1, Genesis 6:1-4, and Deuteronomy 32:8 highlight rebellions (Fall, Nephilim, Tower of Babel) and cosmic geography, where Israel's land is uniquely tied to Yahweh. Naaman's request for Israelite soil (2 Kings 5) underscores this. Heiser's framework, rooted in ancient context, clarifies “weird” texts but requires caution due to speculative elements. Part 2 will cover New Testament applications.Overview of The Unseen RealmCore Thesis: Heiser proposes a “Deuteronomy 32 worldview,” emphasizing a divine council of spiritual beings (Elohim) that God interacts with, distinct from polytheism.Heiser's Background: His interest sparked as a PhD student when reading Psalm 82:1, which mentions God judging “among the gods” (Elohim, a plural Hebrew term).Writing Style: Heiser leans into “weird” or overlooked passages (e.g., Genesis 6:1-4), offering fresh interpretations grounded in biblical languages and ancient Near Eastern context.Audience Appeal: Engages readers unfamiliar with scholarly study through accessible writing, YouTube presence, and podcasts.Key Old Testament Concepts DiscussedThe Divine Council (Psalm 82:1)Text: “God presides in the great assembly; he renders judgment among the gods” (Elohim).Explanation: Elohim can mean God or spiritual beings, depending on context. Heiser argues this passage depicts God surrounded by a council of spiritual beings (not gods in a polytheistic sense).Key Idea: God is unique, but other spiritual beings exist, serving advisory roles, not as equals. Heiser emphasizes, “There is no Elohim like Yahweh.”Deuteronomy 32 Worldview (Deuteronomy 32:8)Text: “When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance… he set up boundaries for the peoples according to the number of the sons of God” (Dead Sea Scrolls/Septuagint reading).Context: Refers to the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11), where God divided nations and assigned spiritual beings (“sons of God”) to oversee them.Implications: These beings rebelled, leading to judgment (Psalm 82). This explains why nations worshipped other gods, tied to spiritual rebellion.Textual Note: The Masoretic Text reads “sons of Israel,” but earlier texts (Dead Sea Scrolls, Septuagint) support “sons of God,” a more difficult but likely original reading.Three Rebellions in GenesisFall (Genesis 3): The serpent, a rebellious spiritual being, deceives humanity, opposing God's plan for humans to rule the earth.Sons of God and Nephilim (Genesis 6:1-4): Spiritual beings (“sons of God”) intermarry with human women, producing Nephilim (giants), leading to increased wickedness and the flood.Tower of Babel (Genesis 11): Humanity rebels by building a ziggurat to reach the heavens, defying God's command to spread out. God divides nations and assigns spiritual beings (Deuteronomy 32:8).Cosmic GeographyConcept: The land of Israel is uniquely tied to Yahweh's presence, distinct from other nations under rebellious spiritual beings.Example: Naaman's Story (2 Kings 5:14-17):Naaman, a Syrian...

Buy the Oldest Stories books!: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhS :In this episode of Oldest Stories, we explore the complex military and political history of Urartu during its northern campaigns in the early 8th century BCE. As King Menua consolidates power and expands Biainilli influence into the Armenian Highlands, he clashes with the highland polities of Etiuni and Diauehi—two distinct yet influential groups whose stories illuminate the ethnic, linguistic, and political diversity of the Iron Age Caucasus.We examine the engineering feats of Urartian infrastructure, the fortress networks of Etiuni, and the semi-nomadic coalition of the Kartvelian-speaking Diauehi. Through archaeological evidence, Urartian inscriptions, and historical reconstruction, this episode situates the military campaigns in the broader context of ancient Near Eastern state formation, nomadic-sedentary dynamics, and the forgotten peoples of the highlands. Key themes include mountain warfare, tribal confederations, language diversity, and imperial border policy in Iron Age Anatolia and the South Caucasus.Topics include: Urartu, Biainilli, Menua, Argishti I, Etiuni, Diauehi, Armenian Highlands, Lake Sevan, Kartvelians, Iron Age warfare, highland polities, Cimmerians, Assyrian frontier strategy, fortress archaeology, and ancient tribal coalitions in Eastern Anatolia and the Caucasus.I am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

During his visit to the Middle East, President Trump announced the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria, arms sales and U.S.-Saudi business agreements. For additional perspective on this, Amna Nawaz spoke with Vali Nasr, an adviser in the State Department during the Obama administration, and Bernard Haykel, professor of Near Eastern studies at Princeton and a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

During his visit to the Middle East, President Trump announced the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria, arms sales and U.S.-Saudi business agreements. For additional perspective on this, Amna Nawaz spoke with Vali Nasr, an adviser in the State Department during the Obama administration, and Bernard Haykel, professor of Near Eastern studies at Princeton and a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Can getting a tattoo open the door to demonic oppression? Some deliverance ministers claim tattoos are a guaranteed gateway to demonization—but is that actually biblical?In this episode of Remnant Radio, Joshua Lewis explores whether tattoos are inherently sinful, whether they can invite spiritual oppression, and what Scripture truly says about “open doors” and “legal rights” in spiritual warfare. Along the way, we look at Ephesians 4, Leviticus 19, Isaiah 44, and insights from scholars like Dr. Clint Arnold and Dr. Gordon Wenham. We also survey ancient Near Eastern practices, church history (including tattooed Coptic Christians), and examine real-life testimonies of deliverance linked to tattoos.⚠️ This isn't a clickbait scare tactic—it's a serious theological conversation aimed at clarity, not controversy.

Today Dr. Will Ryan and Dr. Matt talk with Dr. John Walton about his new book which expands on The Lost World of Genesis and The Lost World of Adam and Eve. Buy the Book: https://a.co/d/dnA0ylPDescription:Updating and expanding upon his previous work on origins, this riveting volume from John H. Walton marks the eighth entry in his bestselling Lost World Series, which has sold more than 125,000 copies.For over a decade, John Walton's books The Lost World of Genesis One and The Lost World of Adam and Eve have shaped readers' understanding of the ancient Near Eastern world and its implications for modern scientific origins debates. But more than simply engaging the creation/evolution debate, these works explored questions related to interpretation of Genesis through ancient eyes, the theological purpose of a seven-day creation account, the historicity of Adam and Eve, and the history of interpretation of the creative narratives.In New Explorations in the Lost World of Genesis, Walton provides comprehensive and timely updates on the latest developments and research, including:a summary of positions addressed in his previous books on originsnew insights, clarifications, and illustrations based on current scholarshipanswers to frequently asked questionsEngaging the latest scholarship as well as questions that his proponents and critics alike have raised, New Explorations in the Lost World of Genesis provides a relevant update that will benefit students, professors, and pastors as they continue to explore questions of origins and their implications for the Christian life

In this episode we continue our conversations with Dr. John Walton on his book The Lost World of Torah. Description:Our handling of what we call biblical law veers between controversy and neglect.On the one hand, controversy arises when Old Testament laws seem either odd beyond comprehension (not eating lobster) or positively reprehensible (executing children). On the other, neglect results when we consider the law obsolete, no longer carrying any normative power (tassels on clothing, making sacrifices). Even readers who do attempt to make use of the Old Testament "law" often find it either irrelevant, hopelessly laden with "thou shalt nots," or simply so confusing that they throw up their hands in despair. Despite these extremes, people continue to propose moral principles from these laws as "the biblical view" and to garner proof texts to resolve issues that arise in society. The result is that both Christians and skeptics regularly abuse the Torah, and its true message often lies unheard.Walton and Walton offer in The Lost World of the Torah a restorative vision of the ancient genre of instruction for wisdomthat makes up a significant portion of the Old Testament. In the ancient Near East, order was achieved through the wisdom of those who governed society. The objective of torah was to teach the Israelites to be wise about the kind of order needed to receive the blessings of God's favor and presence within the context of the covenant. Here readers will find fresh insight on this fundamental genre of the Old Testament canon.The books in the Lost World Series follow the pattern set by Bible scholar John H. Walton, bringing a fresh, close reading of the Hebrew text and knowledge of ancient Near Eastern literature to an accessible discussion of the biblical topic at hand using a series of logic-based propositions.Buy the book: https://a.co/d/dzWtMFN

Ani is an Assistant Professor in Armenian Christian Art and Theology, holding a post in Grace and Paul Shahinian Lectureship, at the St. Nersess Armenian Theological Seminary and St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary in New York. She earned her doctorate in History and Theology at the University of Oxford. She holds a M.A. degree in Near Eastern and Languages and Cultures from UCLA, and diplomas in Philosophy and Theology from the University of Oxford. Ani's doctoral research addressed the question of Christian martyrdom in the context of political, socio-economic, and ecclesiastical history in Late Medieval Armenia.In this conversation, Ani and I explored the multifaceted topic of martyrdom, examining its evolution from early Christian martyrs to contemporary times. We discussed the Armenian perspective on martyrdom, including its historical significance during the Armenian Genocide and its role in shaping Armenian identity. We also considered how martyrdom resonates beyond religious contexts, reflecting universal themes of suffering, justice, and hope.

On this week's episode, Israel Policy Forum Policy Advisor and Tel Aviv-based journalist Neri Zilber hosts Barbara Leaf, the former assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs and distinguished diplomatic fellow at the Middle East Institute in Washington, D.C. They discuss the Biden administration on October 7 and during the Gaza war, the evolving U.S.-Israel relationship during the conflict, reflections of the prior ceasefire-hostage deal talks, the prospects for a new hostage deal and a realistic post-war plan for Gaza, Barbara's impressions after meeting new Syrian president Ahmed al-Sharaa, Washington under the Trump administration, and more. Support the showFollow us on Instagram, Twitter/X, and Bluesky, and subscribe to our email list here.

In this episode, we explore one of the most dramatic and mysterious transformations in ancient Near Eastern history: the sudden rise of the Kingdom of Urartu—known to its own people as Biainilli—under the leadership of Sarduri I, son of Lutipri. From roughly 835 BCE, Sarduri doesn't merely shift a capital; he constructs an entire state system seemingly from the ground up on the eastern shore of Lake Van.We examine the enigmatic origins of the Bia people, Sarduri's audacious construction of the fortress city of Tushpa, the revolutionary engineering and water management systems he introduced, and the profound Assyrian influence embedded in his kingship. Drawing from sparse but powerful inscriptions, including one carved into Tushpa's very walls, we uncover a kingdom that appears almost overnight—built with massive cyclopean stones, complex administrative systems, and a new vision of political unity.Also discussed is the religious unification initiated by his successor, Ishpuini, and the powerful adoption of the warrior god Khaldi from the holy city of Ardini, a site now lost to history.Urartu's rise isn't just the birth of a kingdom—it's a case study in statecraft, innovation, and resilience at the edge of empire.Keywords: Urartu, Sarduri I, Tushpa, Lake Van, Biainilli, Ishpuini, Khaldi, Musasir, Assyrian Empire, ancient Near East, Iron Age, Armenian Highlands, archaeology, ancient engineering, lost cities, Oldest Stories podcastI am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

In this episode Dr. Will Ryan and Dr. Matt interview Dr. John Walton on his book The Lost World of the Flood: Mythology, Theology, and the Deluge Debate by John H. Walton and Tremper Longman III. Buy the Book: https://a.co/d/hnn7XJ4About the Book:In modern times the Genesis flood account has been probed and analyzed for answers to scientific, apologetic, and historical questions. It is a text that has called forth "flood geology," fueled searches for remnants of the ark on Mount Ararat, and inspired a full-size replica of Noah's ark in a theme park. Some claim that the very veracity of Scripture hinges on a particular reading of the flood narrative. But do we understand what we are reading?Longman and Walton urge us to ask what the biblical author might have been saying to his ancient audience. Our quest to rediscover the biblical flood requires that we set aside our own cultural and interpretive assumptions and visit the distant world of the ancient Near East. Responsible interpretation calls for the patient examination of the text within its ancient context of language, literature, and thought. And as we return from that lost world to our own, we will need to ask whether geological science supports the notion of flood geology.To read Longman and Walton is to put our feet on firmer interpretive ground. Without attempting to answer all of our questions, they lift the fog of modernity and allow the sunlight to reveal the true contours of the text. As with other books in the Lost World series, The Lost World of the Flood is an informative and enlightening journey toward a more responsible reading of a timeless biblical narrative.The books in the Lost World Series follow the pattern set by Bible scholar John H. Walton, bringing a fresh, close reading of the Hebrew text and knowledge of ancient Near Eastern literature to an accessible discussion of the biblical topic at hand using a series of logic-based propositions.

Do similarities in the Old Testament with other ancient Near Eastern literature prove that it is all the same kind of thing? Rick Wade shows why it's not.

Guests: Holly S. Cooper is Co-director of the Immigration Law Clinic. She is an expert on immigration detention issues and on the immigration consequences of criminal convictions. Hatem Bazian is a professor of Islamic law and theology at Zaytuna College. He is also a lecturer in the departments of Near Eastern and Ethnic Studies at the University of California, Berkeley.  Most lately, he is the author of Erasing The Human: Collapse of The Postcolonial World and Refugee Immigration Crisis.   The post Mahmoud Khalil's Abduction & Targeting of Universities appeared first on KPFA.

Late last week a bipartisan group of lawmakers in the House of Representatives introduced a piece of legislation that would redesignate Turkey as a Near Eastern country at the State Department, rather than a European country. The legislation followed a hearing in the House on Turkey, where serious concerns about Turkey's role as a US and NATO ally were expressed. Endy Zemenides, HALC's Executive Director, joins Thanos Davelis to break down why this legislation on Turkey matters, especially given Ankara's record that shows it is increasingly at odds with Western security interests.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Bipartisan legislation seeks to rein in Erdogan's Turkey over ties to US foesBridging the Gap: Turkey Between East and WestRubio says Syria must hold accountable 'perpetrators of massacres' Government seeks fresh start as social pressure mountsHigher European defense budgets a first step, production needed, NATO's Rutte saysSectarian Killings Along Syria's Coast Spiral Into Crisis for New GovernmentSyria's Interim President Calls for Unity Amid Fresh Fighting

Syrian clarinetist and composer Kinan Azmeh has been based here in New York for many years. His music is an organic mix of East and West, of classical composition, jazzy improvisation, and Near Eastern music traditions. He's played with the Silk Road Ensemble and lots of other groups large and small, but the one we see him with most often is his Arab-Jazz Quartet known as CityBand – all one word. It's a band where Azmeh's stirring and expressive clarinet meets Kyle Sanna's rustic guitar, soaring at times over the dynamic and volatile backdrop of John Hadfield's percussion and Josh Myers' bass. Along with some talk about his homeland of Syria, apricot trees, and (of course), soccer, Kinan Azmeh and CityBand play some of the music from their latest album, called Live In Berlin, in-studio. Set List: 1. Daraa 2. Jisreen 3. Wedding  

This lesson explores Psalm 23 through the lens of Hebrew language and ancient Near Eastern culture, uncovering the richness of its imagery and deeper meanings to better understand the psalm's themes of provision and protection.

Exodus 24 is a pivotal chapter in the Bible that details the formal ratification of the covenant between God and the people of Israel at Mount Sinai. This event underscores the establishment of Israel as a nation bound to God through agreed-upon laws and commitments. Key Events in Exodus 24: 1.Divine Invitation to Leadership: •God instructs Moses to ascend Mount Sinai, accompanied by Aaron, his sons Nadab and Abihu, and seventy elders of Israel. They are to worship from a distance, with Moses alone approaching closer to God.  2.Presentation and Acceptance of God's Laws: •Moses conveys all of God's commands and ordinances to the people. In unison, they respond, committing to obey all the words spoken by the Lord.  3.Covenant Rituals: •Moses documents God's words, constructs an altar at the mountain's base, and erects twelve pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Young men offer burnt and peace offerings. Moses collects the sacrificial blood, using half to consecrate the altar and reading the “Book of the Covenant” aloud to the people. They reaffirm their commitment, and Moses sprinkles the remaining blood on them, symbolizing the binding nature of the covenant.  4.Encounter with the Divine: •Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the seventy elders ascend and witness a manifestation of God, described as a sapphire-like pavement under His feet. They see God and partake in a meal, signifying fellowship and the sealing of the covenant.  5.Moses' Extended Stay on the Mountain: •God summons Moses further up the mountain to receive the stone tablets inscribed with the law and commandments. Moses, accompanied by his aide Joshua, instructs the elders to await their return, delegating Aaron and Hur to handle any arising matters. Moses enters the cloud-covered mountain, where he remains for forty days and nights, during which he receives detailed instructions from God.  Theological Significance: •Covenant Confirmation: The chapter formalizes the covenant between God and Israel, establishing a foundational relationship based on mutual commitments. The rituals performed, including sacrifices and the sprinkling of blood, emphasize the seriousness and sanctity of this agreement. •Divine Revelation: The leaders' encounter with God highlights the accessibility of divine revelation to chosen representatives, reinforcing the concept of mediated communication between God and His people. •Law as Foundation: The giving of the tablets signifies the importance of a written code of conduct, serving as a tangible guide for the Israelites' ethical and religious life. Historical and Cultural Context: The practices described, such as altar construction, sacrificial offerings, and covenant meals, align with ancient Near Eastern customs of treaty-making and religious ceremonies. The use of blood in covenant rituals symbolizes purification and the binding nature of agreements, reflecting the cultural milieu of the time. Reflections for Today: Exodus 24 invites contemporary readers to reflect on the themes of commitment, obedience, and the sacredness of covenants. It underscores the importance of communal assent to shared values and laws, the role of leadership in spiritual journeys, and the profound experience of encountering the divine.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Numbers 5 – Historical and Cultural Context, Laws on Purity, Restitution, and Marital Faithfulness Numbers 5 provides laws that govern purity, restitution, and marital faithfulness among the Israelites. These laws were deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel and were essential for maintaining social order and religious holiness. 1. Purity Laws and Removal of the Unclean (Numbers 5:1-4) Historical Context In the ancient Near East, many societies, including Egypt and Mesopotamia, had rules regarding ritual purity, often linked to religious practice. The Israelites, however, had a unique system where impurity was directly tied to God's presence in their camp. •The Israelites had just received the Law at Mount Sinai, where God established that He would dwell among them (Exodus 25:8). •The need to remove those with skin diseases (e.g., leprosy), bodily discharges, or contact with dead bodies was not only for hygiene but to maintain the camp's ritual purity. •Unlike other ancient societies that viewed disease as fate or punishment from capricious gods, the Israelites saw impurity as something that could be addressed through prescribed rituals (Leviticus 13-15). Significance •These laws reinforced that holiness was essential for God's presence to remain among the people. •They protected the community from potential disease outbreaks, aligning with what we now recognize as public health measures. •The Israelites understood purity not only as a physical condition but as a spiritual state necessary to be in fellowship with God. 2. Restitution for Wrongdoing (Numbers 5:5-10) Historical Context Restitution laws were common in the ancient world, but Israel's laws placed special emphasis on confession and compensation. •In other Near Eastern legal codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi (c. 1754 BCE), penalties were often severe and did not necessarily involve restitution to the victim. •The Israelite law required a guilty person to confess their sin, compensate the victim with the original amount plus an additional 20%, and offer a sacrifice to atone before God. •If the victim had no relatives to receive the repayment, it was given to the priest, reinforcing the communal aspect of justice. Significance •This law highlights that sin is not only against an individual but also against God and the community. •It shows that biblical justice emphasized restoration, not just punishment. •The concept of confession before restitution foreshadows later Jewish and Christian teachings on repentance. 3. The Test for an Unfaithful Wife (Numbers 5:11-31) – The Sotah Ritual Historical Context This passage describes a trial by ordeal, a common judicial practice in the ancient Near East where divine intervention was sought to determine guilt or innocence. •Similar rituals existed in Mesopotamia and Babylon, where accused individuals had to submit to tests like being thrown into a river—if they survived, they were innocent. •The Sotah ritual (trial of the suspected adulteress) in Israel differed significantly. It involved a priestly ceremony where the accused woman drank water mixed with dust from the Tabernacle floor. •If guilty, she would suffer illness and infertility; if innocent, she remained unharmed and could bear children. Significance •This law protected women from arbitrary punishment by requiring a formal religious process rather than allowing husbands to act out of jealousy. •Unlike other ancient laws where women were immediately executed if accused of adultery (as in Hammurabi's Code), Israel's law required divine judgment, ensuring fairness. •The ritual emphasized that God was the ultimate judge in cases where human evidence was lacking. •The ceremony was symbolic, demonstrating that marital faithfulness was not just a social matter but a covenant before God. Key Lessons from Numbers 5 in Historical Context 1.Holiness and Community Order – The purity laws emphasized the sacredness of God's dwelling among the people and reflected an advanced understanding of hygiene and social order. 2.Justice and Restitution – Unlike many ancient laws that prioritized harsh punishment, biblical justice focused on confession, repentance, and making amends. 3.Divine Judgment in Relationships – The Sotah ritual ensured that accusations of adultery were handled fairly, rather than allowing human bias to dictate justice. Numbers 5 shows that ancient Israel's laws were deeply tied to their understanding of God's presence and moral order. Unlike other ancient societies where rulers and priests controlled legal matters for personal gain, Israel's system ensured fairness, justice, and divine guidance in both personal and communal matters.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Can the Bible be trusted when it describes the natural world? Some claim it reflects primitive cosmology, portraying a solid dome sky with stars embedded within it and waters above. If true, this would challenge the Bible’s reliability. But what do the Bible’s own words reveal? Explore how terms like “firmament” and descriptions of heavenly waters are understood in their original context. Is the Bible mistaken about science, or does it use poetic and observational language common in human expression? Keaton Halley delves into these questions, addressing claims about solid skies, heavenly oceans, and the movement of stars. By examining ancient Near Eastern texts and biblical language, Halley demonstrates why Scripture’s authority remains intact. He highlights the significance of interpreting the Bible within its context and trusting its claims about both the natural and spiritual realms.

In this episode, we dive into the biblical and practical theology of elders, tracing their origins from ancient Near Eastern culture through the Old and New Testaments. The sermon highlights how God infused the culturally inherited role of elder with divine purpose, shaping it into a Spirit-empowered, justice-seeking, and servant-hearted role. We explore how the early church redeemed the role of elder from corruption, restoring it to reflect Jesus' character—marked by humility, integrity, and servant leadership. This foundational teaching sets the stage for next week's conversation on the inclusion of women as co-equal leaders in the church.

In this week's episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, we explore how the Torah's legal sections, particularly in Parashat Mishpatim, interact with and transform the legal traditions of the ancient Near East rather than create an original Code of Law. We take this fascinating journey through the lens of Umberto Cassuto, a brilliant biblical scholar whose work has been largely overlooked in modern biblical scholarship.   Background and Context   The Torah is often viewed as an all-encompassing legal code, dictating every aspect of Jewish life. However, Umberto Cassuto, writing in the newly formed state of Israel, presents a revolutionary perspective. He argues that the Torah's laws should be understood in the context of existing legal traditions in the ancient Near East.   Cassuto's approach is groundbreaking. He suggests that to truly understand the Torah's legal sections, we must examine them alongside other ancient legal codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi. This comparison reveals the Torah's unique contributions and its transformative impact on existing legal norms.   Key Insights and Takeaways   1. The Torah as a Responsive Document   Contrary to the idea that the Torah created a legal system from scratch, Cassuto argues that it responds to and builds upon existing legal traditions. This perspective challenges our understanding of the Torah's role in ancient Israelite society.   2. The Religious Nature of Torah Law   While other ancient Near Eastern legal codes were primarily secular, the Torah introduces a religious dimension to law. As Rabbi Adam Mintz points out:   "What's surprising in Judaism is the laws come from God. And the reason for that is because they practice monotheism... Monotheism allows for religious law. Idolatry doesn't allow for religious law."   3. Three Ways the Torah Interacts with Existing Laws   Cassuto identifies three primary ways the Torah engages with existing legal traditions:   - Introducing amendments   - Opposing or invalidating certain aspects   - Confirming and elevating worthy aspects   This nuanced approach shows how the Torah acts as a catalyst for change while acknowledging existing societal norms.   4. The Sanctity of Human Life   One of the most significant innovations of Torah law is its emphasis on the sanctity of human life. Geoffrey, quoting Cassuto highlights this point:   "The Torah wishes to affirm and establish the principle in the name of divine law that human life is sacred, and whoever assails this sanctity forfeits his own life, measure for measure."   This principle leads to more compassionate laws, even for those who have committed crimes.   Challenges and Practical Advice   1. Rethinking Biblical Interpretation   Cassuto's approach challenges us to reconsider how we interpret biblical texts. By understanding the historical and legal context, we gain new insights into the Torah's teachings.   2. Balancing Tradition and Innovation   The Torah's interaction with existing legal codes provides a model for how we can approach societal change today. It shows us how to respect tradition while pushing for ethical improvements.   3. Applying Ancient Wisdom to Modern Challenges   Umberto Cassuto's work offers a fresh perspective on the Torah's legal sections. By viewing them in the context of ancient Near Eastern legal traditions, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Torah's innovative and transformative nature as well as it's limitations. The Torah laws were not meant to replace or undermine all existing norms, customs and social behavior.   This approach provides a model for how religious traditions can respect, engage with and elevate societal norms. It challenges us to think critically about the interplay between religious teachings and secular laws in our own time and in general and in the State of Israel, in particular.   As we continue to grapple with complex ethical and legal issues in the modern world, the Torah's example of building upon existing foundations while introducing higher ethical standards remains profoundly relevant.   To dive deeper into this fascinating topic and hear the full discussion, be sure to listen to the entire episode of Madlik and check out the Sefaria Source Notes https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/626312

From the East African and Red Sea coasts to the Persian Gulf ports of Bushihr, Kish, and Hurmuz, sailing and caravan networks supplied Iran and the surrounding regions with African slave labor from antiquity to the nineteenth century. This book reveals how Iranian cinema preserves the legacy of this vast and yet long-overlooked history that has come to be known as Indian Ocean slavery. How does a focus on blackness complicate traditional understandings of history and culture? Parisa Vaziri addresses this question by looking at residues of the Indian Ocean slave trade in Iranian films from the second half of the twentieth century. Revealing the politicized clash between commercial cinema (fīlmfārsii) and alternative filmmaking (the Iranian New Wave), she pays particular attention to the healing ritual zar which is both an African slave descendent practice and a constitutive element of Iranian culture, as well as to cinematic sīyāh bāzī (Persian black play). Moving beyond other studies on Indian Ocean and trans-Saharan slavery, Vaziri highlights the crystallization of a singular mode of historicity within these cinematic examples—one of “absence” that reflects the relative dearth of archival information on the facts surrounding Indian Ocean slavery. Bringing together cinema studies, Middle East studies, Black studies, and postcolonial theory, Racial Blackness and Indian Ocean Slavery: Iran's Cinematic Archive (U Minnesota Press, 2023) explores African enslavement in the Indian Ocean through the revelatory and little-known history of Iranian cinema. It shows that Iranian film reveals a resistance to facticity representative of the history of African enslavement in the Indian Ocean and preserves the legacy of African slavery's longue durée in ways that resist its overpowering erasure in the popular and historical imagination. Parisa Vaziri is associate professor of comparative literature and Near Eastern studies at Cornell University. Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

From the East African and Red Sea coasts to the Persian Gulf ports of Bushihr, Kish, and Hurmuz, sailing and caravan networks supplied Iran and the surrounding regions with African slave labor from antiquity to the nineteenth century. This book reveals how Iranian cinema preserves the legacy of this vast and yet long-overlooked history that has come to be known as Indian Ocean slavery. How does a focus on blackness complicate traditional understandings of history and culture? Parisa Vaziri addresses this question by looking at residues of the Indian Ocean slave trade in Iranian films from the second half of the twentieth century. Revealing the politicized clash between commercial cinema (fīlmfārsii) and alternative filmmaking (the Iranian New Wave), she pays particular attention to the healing ritual zar which is both an African slave descendent practice and a constitutive element of Iranian culture, as well as to cinematic sīyāh bāzī (Persian black play). Moving beyond other studies on Indian Ocean and trans-Saharan slavery, Vaziri highlights the crystallization of a singular mode of historicity within these cinematic examples—one of “absence” that reflects the relative dearth of archival information on the facts surrounding Indian Ocean slavery. Bringing together cinema studies, Middle East studies, Black studies, and postcolonial theory, Racial Blackness and Indian Ocean Slavery: Iran's Cinematic Archive (U Minnesota Press, 2023) explores African enslavement in the Indian Ocean through the revelatory and little-known history of Iranian cinema. It shows that Iranian film reveals a resistance to facticity representative of the history of African enslavement in the Indian Ocean and preserves the legacy of African slavery's longue durée in ways that resist its overpowering erasure in the popular and historical imagination. Parisa Vaziri is associate professor of comparative literature and Near Eastern studies at Cornell University. Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/film

From the East African and Red Sea coasts to the Persian Gulf ports of Bushihr, Kish, and Hurmuz, sailing and caravan networks supplied Iran and the surrounding regions with African slave labor from antiquity to the nineteenth century. This book reveals how Iranian cinema preserves the legacy of this vast and yet long-overlooked history that has come to be known as Indian Ocean slavery. How does a focus on blackness complicate traditional understandings of history and culture? Parisa Vaziri addresses this question by looking at residues of the Indian Ocean slave trade in Iranian films from the second half of the twentieth century. Revealing the politicized clash between commercial cinema (fīlmfārsii) and alternative filmmaking (the Iranian New Wave), she pays particular attention to the healing ritual zar which is both an African slave descendent practice and a constitutive element of Iranian culture, as well as to cinematic sīyāh bāzī (Persian black play). Moving beyond other studies on Indian Ocean and trans-Saharan slavery, Vaziri highlights the crystallization of a singular mode of historicity within these cinematic examples—one of “absence” that reflects the relative dearth of archival information on the facts surrounding Indian Ocean slavery. Bringing together cinema studies, Middle East studies, Black studies, and postcolonial theory, Racial Blackness and Indian Ocean Slavery: Iran's Cinematic Archive (U Minnesota Press, 2023) explores African enslavement in the Indian Ocean through the revelatory and little-known history of Iranian cinema. It shows that Iranian film reveals a resistance to facticity representative of the history of African enslavement in the Indian Ocean and preserves the legacy of African slavery's longue durée in ways that resist its overpowering erasure in the popular and historical imagination. Parisa Vaziri is associate professor of comparative literature and Near Eastern studies at Cornell University. Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

Welcome to Day 2559 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 02/02/2025 Sermon Series: Old Testament Orientation Message 4: “The Books of the Pentateuch” Last week, we continued our Old Testament Orientation series with ‘The Language, Cosmology, Geography, and Interpretation of the Old Testament.' This week, we will begin exploring the Old Testament's different groups of books (genres), starting with The Books of the Pentateuch from an ancient Israelite perspective and insights into the Divine Council Worldview. Opening Prayer Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, eager to learn and grow through Your Word. As we delve into the Pentateuch, the foundation of Your covenant and story with humanity, open our eyes to the wisdom within these books. Help us see through the perspective of Your people, ancient Israel, and to apply these timeless truths to our lives. Guide our hearts to understand Your purpose, Your love, and Your sovereignty. In Jesus' name, Amen. Introduction The Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, consists of the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books form the foundation of God's covenantal relationship with His people. To the ancient Israelites, these texts were not merely stories or laws; they were the blueprint for life, the anchor of their identity, and the revelation of Yahweh's character. Today, we will explore these books from the perspective of an ancient Israelite, uncovering the themes of creation, covenant, worship, and faithfulness. These books teach us who God is, who we are in relationship to Him, and how to live in faithfulness to His commands. We will examine four main points: (Bulletin Insert) The Creation and Covenant of Genesis The Redemption and Revelation of Exodus The Holiness and Worship of Leviticus The Journey and Renewal of Numbers and Deuteronomy Through each of these points, we will discover the richness of the Pentateuch and its relevance for our faith today. Main Points The Creation and Covenant of Genesis Genesis lays the foundation for understanding God's relationship with humanity. It begins with the grand narrative of creation, establishing Yahweh as the sovereign Creator. The ancient Israelites would have contrasted this with the pagan creation myths of their neighbors, which depicted chaotic battles among competing gods.   Key Themes: Creation: In Genesis 1, God speaks the universe into existence. Unlike other ancient Near Eastern accounts, Yahweh creates without struggle, emphasizing His supreme authority. Covenant: In Genesis 12, God calls Abraham, establishing a covenant that will shape Israel's identity. This covenant is marked by promises of land, descendants, and blessings. Expanded Narrative: For an Israelite, Genesis was more than just an origin story. It explained their very existence and purpose. Imagine an Israelite child asking, “Father, why do we live in this land?” The father would tell the story of Abraham, who left everything to follow Yahweh, trusting His promise of land and descendants. This story instilled a sense...

Checking in from Scottsdale, Arizona, Camden Bucey discusses the Faith and Life Conference on worship and the themes of his upcoming talks. He reflects on recent podcast episodes, including discussions on ancient Near Eastern hero culture and the significance of animal imagery in biblical texts. The stream also touches on ethical considerations surrounding pet euthanasia, distinctions between the Reformed and Presbyterian family trees. We even daydream about a hunting excursion for people into Reformed theology.

Join us for a fascinating conversation on biblical imagery. Dr. Michael Seufert, pastor at Mission OPC in St. Paul, Minnesota, and author of the dissertation Of Beasts and Men: A Study of Genesis 49 in Light of Iconography, Metaphor, and Animal Studies, guides us through the rich tapestry of ancient Near Eastern hero culture and its implications for understanding Scripture. We explore Genesis 49, Jacob's poetic blessing, and its striking use of animal metaphors, unpacking themes of violence, power, and divine faithfulness. Dr. Seufert highlights the ambivalence in biblical heroism, contrasting the lion-like strength of Judah with the paradoxical power of the Lamb in Revelation. Dan Svendsen, pastor of First OPC in South Holland, Illinois, also provides his perspective as a preacher immersed in the narratives of 1 Samuel. Together, we examine how the stories of David and Judah resonate with biblical themes of leadership, humility, and redemption, offering additional depth and richness to our understanding of hero culture in the Bible. With insights into the cultural, theological, and practical applications of these themes, we discuss how the church today can embrace the counterintuitive way of weakness modeled by Christ. This collaborative discussion bridges rigorous scholarship and pastoral application, offering profound encouragement for the Christian life. Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:10:04 Michael Seufert's Academic Journey 00:25:47 Understanding Hero Culture in Scripture 00:35:43 The Wilderness of Empire and Violence 00:38:58 Animal Imagery in Biblical Power Dynamics 00:41:29 The Complexity of Judah's Legacy 00:48:20 Lessons from Jacob and David         00:59:16 Embracing Christ's Path to Victory 01:09:23 Conclusion

Have you ever wondered why we don't raise our hands during prayer in Judaism? It's a question that might seem trivial at first, but as we explored in our latest Madlik episode, it opens up a fascinating world of gesture, ritual, and cultural evolution. As I sat watching the presidential inauguration, I couldn't help but notice the raised hand during the oath of office. This simple gesture, so commonplace in our civic life, is surprisingly absent from our religious practice. Why is that? And what can we learn from the rich tradition of hand gestures in our biblical texts? In our conversation with Rabbi Adam Mintz, we delved into the surprising prevalence of hand gestures in the Torah. Did you know that the Hebrew Bible has the richest source of gesture phrases of any ancient Near Eastern religion or literature? It's true! From Aaron lifting his rod to God's promise of redemption with an outstretched arm, our sacred texts are filled with powerful non-verbal communication. But here's the kicker: despite this rich heritage, hand gestures are virtually non-existent in modern Jewish ritual and prayer. It's a stark contrast that begs the question: what happened?  

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Dr. May Young, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Biblical Studies at Taylor University, to discuss her newly published book, Walking with God Through the Valley: Rediscovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament. Together, they explore the ancient Near Eastern context of lament, its unique role in Scripture, and its relevance for modern Christians. Discover how biblical lament contrasts with the practices of Israel’s neighbors, emphasizing a direct and intimate relationship with God. Learn why lament is essential for cultivating hope and resilience and how neglecting it can subtly erode our faith. Dr. Young also shares practical insights on engaging with lament personally and communally, and how this spiritual practice can deepen our intimacy with God—even in life’s mundane and difficult moments. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation about rediscovering lament as a vital part of the Christian life. Plus, find out how to get 20% off Dr. Young’s book through InterVarsity Press using the exclusive discount code below. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Dr. Young's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

To kick off 2025, Kelly talks with Richard Fontaine, CEO of the Center for New American Security, about his new report with the Council on Foreign Relations: No Limits? The China-Russia Relationship and U.S. Foreign Policy.  Richard is the chief executive officer of the Center for a New American Security. Prior to CNAS, Richard was a foreign policy advisor to Senator John McCain and served in the State Department and on the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He also served as associate director for Near Eastern affairs at the National Security Council and worked on Southeast Asian issues in the NSC's Asian Affairs directorate. In 2024, Richard co-authored the Lost Decade: The U.S. Pivot to Asia and the Rise of Chinese Power, with Ambassador Robert Blackwill. Please find the book in our show notes, as well as a link to Robert and Richard's recent report. CFR | No Limits? The China-Russia Relationship and U.S. Foreign Policy: https://www.cfr.org/report/no-limits-china-russia-relationship-and-us-foreign-policy  The Lost Decade: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Decade-Pivot-Chinese-Power/dp/0197677940 The opinions expressed in this conversation are strictly those of the participants and do not represent the views of Georgetown University or any government entity. Produced by Freddie Mallinson and Theo Malhotra. Recorded on January 10, 2025. Diplomatic Immunity, a podcast from the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University, brings you frank and candid conversations with experts on the issues facing diplomats and national security decision-makers around the world. Funding support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. For more, visit our website, and follow us on Linkedin, Twitter @GUDiplomacy, and Instagram @isd.georgetown  

“The Good News is still good news.” “I'm very pro-democracy, and yet democracy has never been the necessary prerequisite for the good news of Jesus Christ to flourish. …  The good news of Jesus Christ doesn't win and doesn't lose based on a political party winning or losing.” (Walter Kim, from this episode) How does evangelicalism relate to the dominant political powers of our world? In this episode Mark Labberton welcomes Walter Kim to Conversing. As the president of the National Association of Evangelicals and host of the Difficult Conversations podcast, Walter holds on to deep Christian orthodoxy alongside the most vigorous and necessary intellectual, personal, ethical, and theological reflections, offering a vision of leadership and spiritual-moral imagination to bolster the future of evangelicalism. Together they discuss: Christianity, pluralism, and polarization The fraught meaning of “evangelicalism” in America and what it means to be a “good news person” in this political moment The human impulse to wield power and the temptation of evangelicals to join with empire The Christian underpinnings of the American nation's founding and the necessary ingredients for the rise of Christian nationalism How evangelicals are retelling and recasting the story of the gospel in today's political climate About Walter Kim Walter Kim serves as the president of the National Association of Evangelicals, a role he's held since January of 2020. Previously, he was the pastor of Boston's historic Park Street Church, and has served other churches in Vancouver, British Columbia, and Charlottesville, Virginia, and as a campus chaplain at Yale University. He received a BA from Northwestern University, an MDiv from Regent College, and a PhD from Harvard University in Near Eastern languages and civilizations. He hosts the Difficult Conversations podcast. Show Notes Long-term faithfulness to the gospel in the maelstrom of challenges and difficulties ”My experience has been one of extremes. … There is the lived reality of polarization, at which I find often myself right in the centre.” ”Sober self-assessment … one should always, as a Christian, be self-suspicious: Am I compromising? … Am I responding in faith or out of fear?” “Purveyor of the good news in action.” “Our labour in Christ is not in vain … ultimately Christ remains Lord and Savior of all.” The word “evangelical” and the state of US evangelicalism What does it mean to be a “good news person”? World Evangelical Alliance General Assembly Laussane and a gathering of five thousand evangelicals from around the world “It's not a branding issue. It's a substance issue.” “Global church with a polycentric distribution of leadership and resources” “Whatever our maelstrom and vortex may be in America, it pales in comparison to what brothers and sisters are experiencing throughout the world.” “I'm very pro-democracy, and yet democracy has never been the necessary prerequisite for the good news of Jesus Christ to flourish. …  The good news of Jesus Christ doesn't win and doesn't lose based on a political party winning or losing.” Religious community vs “the other” How does the church relate to dominant powers? Image of God is not just an abstract idea “The democratization of the image of God to all people—not just to the rulers—was a profoundly prophetic statement.” Tower of Babel: A story not just about hubris, but about hoarding power and the ways political imperialism can use religion for its own purposes. “This is not a uniquely American problem. … This is a problem of humanity.” Evangelicals who have given themselves to empire Marring God's image and remaking God in our own image Pluralism and Christianity The capacity for self-reflection The Christian underpinnings of the American nation's founding, and the rise of Christian nationalism “What's different now is the pluralism.” The necessary ingredients for the rise of Christian nationalism Ingredient 1: The belief that America was founded as a Christian nation Ingredient 2: A sense or feeling of loss Ingredient 3: The answer to regaining what you lost is political Descriptive versus prescriptive: Was America founded as a Christian nation? Hope in the loving and just reign of God No national church: “living under their own vine and fig tree.” The reason we don't privilege Christianity in the Constitution Lilly Endowment project “The Good News is still good news.” “Retelling and recasting the story … as a message of hope.” “ This initiative is an opportunity for us to tell the beautiful story of Jesus, while not neglecting the ways that story has been marred.” Luke 4: Jesus's first public speech. “ The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for the prisoner, sight for the blind, release for the oppressed. And to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.” Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment magazine and Fuller Seminary.

Dr. Will Ryan and Dr. Matt kick off a series of interviews with Dr. John Walton on his Lost World book series. Today we talk about The Lost World of Scripture. Buy the book: https://a.co/d/2Kpd397 From John H. Walton, and D. Brent Sandy comes a detailed look at the origins of scriptural authority in ancient oral cultures and how they inform our understanding of the Old and New Testaments today. Stemming from questions about scriptural inerrancy, inspiration and oral transmission of ideas, The Lost World of Scripture examines the process by which the Bible has come to be what it is today. From the reasons why specific words were used to convey certain ideas to how oral tradition impacted the transmission of biblical texts, the authors seek to uncover how these issues might affect our current doctrine on the authority of Scripture. "In this book we are exploring ways God chose to reveal his word in light of discoveries about ancient literary culture," write Walton and Sandy. "Our specific objective is to understand better how both the Old and New Testaments were spoken, written and passed on, especially with an eye to possible implications for the Bible?s inspiration and authority." The books in the Lost World Series follow the pattern set by Bible scholar John H. Walton, bringing a fresh, close reading of the Hebrew text and knowledge of ancient Near Eastern literature to an accessible discussion of the biblical topic at hand using a series of logic-based propositions.

We don't have a new episode this week, but we invite you to revisit David Bashevkin's conversation with Jonathan Gribetz teaching about Israel in the Ivy League, originally aired Jan. 12, 2024.In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Jonathan Gribetz, a Princeton professor and scholar of Near Eastern and Judaic studies, about the history of Israel and Palestine.At a time in which we can feel as if we're all at war, it may be helpful to take a step back and look at the full history between Arabs and Israelis, to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges we face in 2024. Jonathan Gribetz helps us do this. In this episode we discuss:What was discourse between Jews and Arabs like during the infancy of Zionism?When and how did this discussion begin to deteriorate and become often counterproductive?What can a current Ivy League professor teach us about discussing Israel today?Tune in to hear a conversation about how we might seek out the seeds of a reconciliation between the descendants of Isaac and the descendants of Ishmael.Interview begins at 5:02.Jonathan Marc Gribetz is Associate Professor of Near Eastern Studies and Judaic Studies at Princeton University, where he teaches about the history of Jerusalem, Palestine, Israel, and Jewish and Arab nationalisms. He is the author of Defining Neighbors: Religion, Race, and the Early Zionist-Arab Encounter.References:Defining Neighbors: Religion, Race, and the Early Zionist-Arab Encounter by Jonathan Marc Gribetz“‘A Question That Outweighs All Others': Yitzhak Epstein and Zionist Recognition of the Arab Issue” by Alan DowtyThe Zionist Idea by Arthur HertzbergZionism: An Emotional State by Derek J. Penslar1929: Year Zero of the Arab-Israeli Conflict by Hillel CohenArabs and Israelis: Conflict and Peacemaking in the Middle East by Abdel Monem Said Aly, Shai Feldman, and Khalil ShikakiClima TwinsTime and Difference in Rabbinic Judaism by Sarit Kattan GribetzGenesis 15:15

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

The text explores the Star of Bethlehem narrative in Matthew's Gospel through an Aramaic linguistic and cultural lens. Aramaic word choices, like kawkav (star), highlight the story's divine and Messianic significance, connecting it to existing Jewish prophecies and Near Eastern astrological traditions. The magi's interpretation of the star reflects a cross-cultural understanding facilitated by Aramaic, a common language. Finally, the text analyzes the star's symbolic representation of divine light and guidance, tying it to broader Semitic and Jewish imagery. for more in depth teachings check our website: www.twinstours.com

Has anyone ever said to you, “Oh, you believe Jesus is just a mere man.” How do you respond when someone says that? Do you just go along with it and say, “Yep, that’s what I believe–Jesus is just another guy”? I hope not. Jesus is not just another guy. He’s the virginally-conceived son of God who lived righteously without sin, healed dozens (maybe hundreds) of people, preached tirelessly about the kingdom, taught the Bible and how to live, performed many miracles and exorcisms, voluntarily died for our sins as a perfect sacrifice. Then God raised him from the dead and he ascended to God’s right hand from which place he is the head of the church and from which place he will come again on the last day to establish God’s reign upon the earth. This doesn’t sound like just another guy to me. Even so, Jesus’s unprecedented and magnificent accomplishments don’t make him God either. He is a genuine, authentic, 100% human being. He shows us what God can do with a human being who wholly submits to God in everything. In today’s episode Anna Brown will draw upon the Bible and the ancient Near Eastern background to show that humans can bear God’s image, representing him on earth. Although some allege that Jesus had to be God to succeed, Brown shows in her presentation that it was actually Christ’s humanity that equipped him to stand in for God as his quintessential image. Anna Brown grew up in Oregon and graduated from Hillsdale College with a Bachelor's in Economics. Fluent in Spanish and learning Hebrew, she has traveled in Europe, Australia, and Israel, and lived in Spain. She currently resides in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband and two children, where she does marketing and publishing for Living Hope International Ministries. Listen to this episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts —— Links —— Get the transcript of this episode Support Restitutio by donating here Join our Restitutio Facebook Group and follow Sean Finnegan on Twitter @RestitutioSF Leave a voice message via SpeakPipe with questions or comments and we may play them out on the air Intro music: Good Vibes by MBB Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0) Free Download / Stream: Music promoted by Audio Library. Who is Sean Finnegan?  Read his bio here Get Finnegan’s book, Kingdom Journey to learn about God’s kingdom coming on earth as well as the story of how Christianity lost this precious pearl of great price.

In this episode of The Bible for Normal People, Pete and Jared are joined by Jon D. Levenson to discuss the complex and ancient practice of child sacrifice, focusing on biblical and ancient Near Eastern contexts. Together they explore the historical, theological, and cultural significance of these sacrifices, particularly in relation to divine favor, gift-giving, and the transformation of such practices in Judaism and Christianity. You can get part two of this conversation by becoming a member of the Society of Normal People at www.thebiblefornormalpeople.com/join.  Show Notes → ********** This episode is brought to you by Litter Robot! Litter-Robot by Whisker is the solution to all your litter box problems, with self-cleaning technology that automatically cleans after every use so your cats will always have a fresh bed of litter to do their business - and your friends won't think your house smells like a litter box. Right now, Whisker is offering $75 off Litter-Robot bundles. AND, as a special offer to listeners, you can get an additional $50 off when you go to stopscooping.com/NORMALPEOPLE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices