Evolution of a Taboo: Pigs and People in the Ancient Near East

Name: Evolution of a Taboo: Pigs and People in the Ancient Near East
Price: 26.95 USD
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4.6 of 5 Stars: Archaeology - Evolution of a Taboo: Pigs and People in the Ancient Near East

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Book Synopsis: Pigs are among the most peculiar animals domesticated in the Ancient Near East. Their story, from domestication to taboo, has fascinated historians, archaeologists, and religious studies scholars for decades. Rejecting simple explanations, this book adopts an evolutionary approach that relies on zooarchaeology and texts to unravel the cultural significance of swine in the Near East from the Paleolithic to the present day. Five major themes are covered: The domestication of the pig from wild boars in the Neolithic period, the unique roles that pigs developed in agricultural economies before and after the development of complex societies, the raising of swine in cities, the shifting ritual roles of pigs, and the formation and development of the pork taboo in Judaism and, later, Islam. The origins and significance of this taboo have inspired much debate. Evolution of a Taboo contends that the well-known taboo described in Leviticus evolved over time, beginning with conflicts between Israelites and Philistines in the early part of the Iron Age, and later was mobilized by Judah's priestly elite in the writing of the Biblical texts. Centuries later, the pig taboo became a point of contention in the ethno-political struggles between Jewish and Greco-Roman cultures in the Levant; later still, between Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Through these conflicts, the pig taboo grew in power. As this rich account illustrates, it came to define the relations between pigs and people in the Near East and beyond, up to the present day.

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Discover the fascinating history of pigs and their cultural significance in the Ancient Near East with our compelling book, "Evolution of a Taboo: Pigs and People in the Ancient Near East." Unraveling the enigmatic journey of pigs, this book combines zooarchaeology and texts to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of their domestication, agricultural roles, and the development of the pork taboo in Judaism and Islam.

Delve into the origins of the pig taboo and its evolution over time, shedding light on the conflicts between ancient civilizations such as the Israelites and Philistines, and the role played by Judah's priestly elite in shaping the Biblical texts. Witness how this taboo became a focal point of ethno-political struggles between Jewish, Greco-Roman, Christian, and Muslim cultures, ultimately shaping the relations between pigs and people both in the Near East and beyond.

Authored by renowned historians, archaeologists, and religious studies scholars, this book presents an evolutionary approach that rejects simplistic explanations and offers a deep dive into the subject matter. Through extensive research and analysis, our experts have compiled a wealth of knowledge, providing you with a captivating narrative that will leave you astounded by the cultural significance of pigs in the Ancient Near East.

Dive into this captivating journey and order your copy of "Evolution of a Taboo: Pigs and People in the Ancient Near East" today! Expand your horizons, challenge your perspectives, and gain profound insights into the intricate relationships between humans and these peculiar creatures. Don't miss out on this remarkable exploration of a taboo that has captivated historians and scholars for decades. Order Now.

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