Cynthia Shafer-Elliott

Dr. Libby Backfish, theologian who connects history to faith, and Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliott, archaeologist of Israelite household life, explore how daily life shapes theology. They discuss household archaeology, the role of land and farming in belief, domestic worship practices, regional hardships that spur religious change, and why theology should be rooted in embodied, communal experience.

The guests are Anna Sieges-Beal, an expert on the minor prophets; Cynthia Shafer-Elliott, specializing in Hebrew Bible and archaeology; and Aaron Higashi, focusing on Persian-era texts. They tackle the relevance of the Hebrew Bible for Christians, dissect archaeological evidence versus biblical narratives, and explore the interplay between key stories like the Exodus and Israelite exile. They delve into the symbolic significance of Genesis and argue for the enduring moral lessons the Old Testament offers in today's world.

Cynthia Shafer-Elliott, a Professor of Hebrew Bible with a focus on the historical and archaeological contexts of ancient Israel, shares fascinating insights on daily life in ancient households. She discusses the cultural significance of food in the Near East and its relation to family and religion. Exploring her archaeological work in Israel, she highlights how new discoveries can alter understanding of biblical narratives. Cynthia also emphasizes the importance of context in interpreting scripture, particularly regarding underrepresented voices.