Reading suggestions

[Minimalist]

Xtians and nutty Jews have concocted an entire history based primarily on their fucking bible. They have since convinced themselves that such history is true.

The only problem is that this culture which they swear existed has left no mark in the ground. Most cultures leave a physical trace but not the Jews...until about 400 BC.

The way to understand this is through archaeology.

Thus, I suggest "The Bible Unearthed" by Finkelstein and Silbermann

"Who Were the Early Israelites and Where Did They Come From?" by William G. Dever

"The Quest for the Historical Israel" by Israel Finkelstein and Amihai Mazar

Once you have some background of the archaeological problems with bible bullshit then move on to Philip R. Davies' "In Search of Ancient Israel."

That should keep you busy for a while.



An example of a non-nutty Jew ( and far superior to lunatic xtians) here:

http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Judaism/...n.aspx?p=1

Three years ago on Passover, I explained to my congregation that according to archeologists, there was no reliable evidence that the Exodus took place--and that it almost certainly did not take place the way the Bible recounts it. Finally, I emphasized: It didn't matter.

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[Spart]

Thanks for the helpful suggestions, all. I'm particularly interested in studies on how the new testament was written, as well as studies of the historicity (or lack thereof) of Jesus.

I'm familiar with the major issues with the New Testament, e.g. the anachronism of the census, the many and varied contradictions - both internal and chronological. I just want something that goes a little deeper.

[Rev. Rye]

Thanks for the helpful suggestions, all. I'm particularly interested in studies on how the new testament was written, as well as studies of the historicity (or lack thereof) of Jesus.

I'm familiar with the major issues with the New Testament, e.g. the anachronism of the census, the many and varied contradictions - both internal and chronological. I just want something that goes a little deeper.

Well, there's also a book called "Who Wrote the New Testament?" by Burton Mack. In addition, writings from "The Jesus Seminar" should also help with the questions of the historicity of Jesus.

[Edwardo Piet]

Wasn't it several authors apparently? At least 50 or something like that?

[Statler Waldorf]

Wasn't it several authors apparently? At least 50 or something like that?

The actual number is about 40 writers, totaling 66 books. This is assuming Paul did not write the book of Hebrews, which is debatable.

[Spart]

And assuming that no one made edits along the way.

[Statler Waldorf]

And assuming that no one made edits along the way.

Sounds a bit like a conclusion you have already made. Would be awfully difficult to prove though.

[Edwardo Piet]

Well anyway.......... THE BIBLE IS A FUCKING MESS.

[Spart]

Sounds a bit like a conclusion you have already made. Would be awfully difficult to prove though.

I did not start this thread to argue with anyone.... I just wanted some reading suggestions from like-minded people. You obviously aren't like-minded, and your input isn't wanted.