Buried Bible Podcast
Buried Bible Podcast
Podcast Description
The Buried Bible Podcast looks to explore the Bible through the lens of the ancient world and its historical context. Co-hosted by Dr. Mark Chavalas, a seasoned scholar, archaeologist, and professor with decades of expertise in ancient Near Eastern history and Keagan Walz who brings the perspective of the everyday listener, we aim to enrich & deepen your understanding of the Bible.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes such as biblical archaeology, ancient civilizations, cultural contexts, and interpretive strategies. For example, episodes explore the historical backdrop of the Old Testament, the significance of Mesopotamian civilizations, and common misconceptions about biblical texts. Specific episode highlight includes the exploration of the origins of writing among Sumerians and Egyptians, revealing how these aspects shape biblical narratives.
The Buried Bible Podcast uncovers the rich historical and cultural context behind the Bible, bringing ancient Scripture to life. Join Dr. Mark Chavalas, a renowned scholar, archaeologist and professor with expertise in ancient Near Eastern history, and Keagan Walz, who provides a fresh perspective from the modern listener’s point of view. Together, they explore the stories, cultures, and languages that shaped the biblical world and uncover insights that deepen your understanding of Scripture.
Are tattoos really forbidden in the Bible? Or have we misunderstood Leviticus 19:28 all along?Tattoos have become a hot-button issue in modern Christian circles, often used as a litmus test for holiness. But does Leviticus 19:28 actually prohibit body art—or is it condemning something far different? Dr. Mark Chavalas takes you on a scholarly journey into the ONE VERSE in the entire Bible that mentions tattoos. Through ancient Near Eastern history, ancient slave practices, biblical language, rabbinical interpretation, and literary context, we uncover what tattooing meant in the ancient world—and what it meant to be marked.📖 In This Episode:➡️ The real Hebrew word behind ”tattoo” and why it's a one-time use mystery➡️ Why cutting and marking the body were likely two separate prohibitions➡️ How Mesopotamian slaves were branded—and why that matters➡️ What ancient mourning rituals reveal (and what they don’t)➡️ The poetic irony of God saying He tattoos our names on His hands (Isaiah 49)➡️ What early rabbinical and modern scholars say—and where they get it wrong➡️ Why your tattoo probably isn’t what Leviticus was warning about➡️ A method to responsibly apply Old Testament laws today📚 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:David Bernat, “Tattoos: What Exactly Is Prohibited?” — Read ArticleMark Chavalas, Adventures in Leviticus, Biblical Archaeology Review, Vol. 42.6 — View Article (BAS Library)Huehnergard & Liebowitz, The Biblical Prohibition Against Tattooing (Vetus Testamentum 63) — View ArticleJoAnn Scurlock, Magico-Medical Means of Dealing with Ghosts (Book excerpt)Pritchard (Ed.), Ancient Near Eastern Texts Relating to the Old Testament — View BookJacob Milgrom, Leviticus 17–22 (AYB) — View Commentary🔥 Let’s Talk in the Comments:Do you believe Christians should avoid tattoos? Why or why not?———- MORE Questions 👉 [email protected]🎥 Like, Subscribe & ShareIf you found this episode helpful, subscribe and share it with someone wrestling with this topic!#BuriedBible #TattoosInTheBible #Leviticus19 #BibleContext #AncientNearEast #ChristianPodcast #ShouldChristiansGetTattoos #BiblicalInterpretation #SlaveBranding #DrMarkChavalas
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