Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Religion & Culture / Religious Studies

Faculty/School

Faculty of Arts

First Advisor

Lawrence Toombs

Advisor Role

Thesis Supervisor

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to study the temples of the Late Bronze Period found within the geographical area of Palestine. A number of previous studies have been done on this subject, but they have principally been all inclusive works, and have not dealt with any specific time period. In the present study, a number of factors have been considered. The ground-plans of the various temples, as well as their locations within the city plan, have been investigated both chronologically and geographically. The interior elements and objects have also been studied. The purpose is to try to discern if there is any relationship between the temple plan, interior elements and the objects, and their geographical location as well as their location within the city. After finishing this study, I have been able to draw some interesting and new conclusions. The principle conclusion is that during the Late Bronze Period there were two “types” of temples in use: the “Official Cult Centres”, which were of the “Langraum” cella form, and the “Secondary” temples, which were of the “Breitraum” cella form. Those of the “Langraum” cella form, with the exception of Tell Mevorakh and the Lachish Fosse Temple I which are special cases, never had benches as an interior element. Those of the “Breitraum” cella form, however, included benches as an interior element. This factor had something to do with the functions of both types of temples. I also noted the apparent change in the use of the platform (dias) and niche throughout the three phases of the Late Bronze Period. No definite conclusions could be drawn from the objects found within the temples do to their spotty preservation.

Convocation Year

1984

Convocation Season

Spring

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