Routledge Archaeology, Anthropology and Cult - Gilat, Israel

Explore the transformative Chalcolithic period through a detailed study of the Gilat sanctuary in the Negev desert. This scholarly work by Routledge examines a low mound, semi-communal farming settlement that stands as one of the rare Chalcolithic sanctuary sites in the Southern Levant. Archaeology, Anthropology and Cult provides a deep analysis of archaeological data to understand how social structures changed during this era. The text connects physical finds with anthropological theory to investigate how religion influenced the evolution of society. By looking at craft specialization, horticulture, and temple life, this book examines how ritual practices helped drive social change. This volume is an essential resource for students and researchers interested in the intersection of religion and social development in Near Eastern prehistory. It offers a clear look at how ritual power shaped early human communities.