BARlines

Critique

BAR Reviewed

BAR is accustomed to reviewing other publications, but not to being reviewed. The Summer 1986 issue of Whole Earth Review turned the tables, however, and published a review of archaeology magazines. Here is what they said about BAR:

“Among those who take every word in the Bible literally, new archaeological data, translation, or interpretations are often superfluous. For the more adventurous souls, however, Biblical history can be a source of excitement and stimulation; a companion to faith rather than a threat.

Despite its name, Biblical Archaeology Review is anything but a stuffy academic journal. It’s a readable, full-color magazine devoted to the discoveries and controversies swirling around Middle-eastern excavation sites. Are these Iron Age remains merely an old farm house or are they the actual altar of Joshua? Is the “Garden Tomb” in Jerusalem the burial place of Jesus as is often claimed? Have Sodom and Gomorrah been found? It’s hard not to get caught up in these questions even though their immediate relevance to one’s daily life may be slim.

BAR, published bimonthly by the Biblical Archaeology Society, maintains an evenhanded, objective tone and counts both Jews and Christians (and archaeologists!) among its readers and staff. Highly recommended!”

—Jay Kinney

In Memoriam