Review by Choice Review
Shanks, the notable editor of Biblical Archaeology Review (BAR), is well known for publicizing high-profile controversies surrounding the Dead Sea Scrolls and the "James, brother of Jesus" ossuary. In this beautifully illustrated volume he lends his charismatic writing style to one of the most fascinating and contentious topics in religion, archaeology, and history. Despite its subtitle, this slender monograph is organized in reverse chronological order, apparently meant to reflect the way in which archaeologists uncover a site, but often a bit distracting. In chapter 1, Shanks begins with the modern religio-political debates surrounding the Temple Mount. Whereas chapters 2 and 3 address the importance of the Dome of the Rock and the status of the Temple Mount during the Byzantine period, chapters 4-6, which deal with the Temple of Israel specifically, most clearly highlight Shanks's interest and knowledge. The work does not present any new evidence or theses, but rather consolidates research published in BAR and in academic journals, offering the material in a condensed and very readable manner, perfect for a popular audience. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower- and upper-level undergraduates and general readers. S. H. Werlin University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
