The Bible is the central text of Western civilization, and an understanding of it is vital to the study of world history and culture. In addition, more and more high school and college students are studying the bible as literature. Monumental in scope and written especially for high school students and general readers, this two-volume work surveys the material culture, customs, and beliefs of the biblical world. It supports the literature curriculum by helping students understand the central text of the Western tradition, while it also supports the history curriculum by using the Bible to explore the customs and cultures of the biblical world. Included are more than 200 alphabetically arranged entries on the tools, animals, foods, habits, laws, professions, and peoples of the Bible. Each entry provides definitions; scriptural references; etymological, historical, and archaeological information; and, when possible, a discussion of the relevance of the topic to modern readers. Entries include cross-references and cite works for further reading. The Encyclopedia is generously illustrated. The topical entries include: Afterlife; Agriculture; Angels; Chariots; Dogs; Embalming; Houses; Locusts; Moloch; Proverbs; Sacrifice; Vineyards; War; Witchcraft; and many more.