The second volume (but first archaeological volume) of the Anchor Bible Reference Library presents a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of the archaelogical research in the land of the Bible. Israeli archaeologist Amihai Mazar introduces the achievements of the research in Israel and Jordan and discusses the implications for our knowledge of the world of the Old Testament. The volume covers the period starting with the first permanent settlements around 10,000 BCE, and ends with the destruction of the First Temple by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC.