Apr 8, 2025

Audiobook Key Themes of the Old Testament


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 08, 2025  

Audiobook Edition of "Key Themes of the Old Testament" Now Available
Moncton, Canada – April 8, 2025 – Electronic Christian Media is thrilled to announce the release of the audiobook edition of Key Themes of the Old Testament: A Survey of Major Theological Themes by Dr. David E. Graves, Ph.D. This engaging and accessible exploration of the Old Testament is now available for listeners seeking a deeper understanding of its timeless messages, narrated in a captivating format perfect for on-the-go learning or personal study.
Originally published in 2012, Key Themes of the Old Testament has been lauded for its insightful approach, examining twelve interconnecting themes that illuminate the theological richness of the Hebrew Scriptures. From the history of the English Bible and biblical revelation to the sovereignty of God, covenant, and the role of the prophets, Dr. Graves answers the questions everyday readers want to know—connecting the Old Testament to the New Testament in a way that resonates with both newcomers and seasoned students of the Bible.
The audiobook edition brings this wealth of knowledge to life, offering over 200 detailed maps, charts, tables, and photographs in an accompanying digital supplement, enhancing the listening experience. Dr. Graves, a retired Assistant Professor at Liberty University’s Rawlings School of Divinity and a renowned biblical field archaeologist, draws on his extensive experience—spanning over 35 years of teaching and fieldwork in the Middle East—to make the cultural and historical context of the Old Testament accessible and relatable.
“This audiobook is designed for anyone who wants to explore the Old Testament’s major themes without getting bogged down in academic jargon,” said Dr. Graves. “Whether you’re in a seminary course, a church group, or simply studying on your own, this format makes it easy to engage with the material wherever you are.”
Highlights of Key Themes of the Old Testament audiobook include:
• A clear overview of twelve essential themes, such as creation, sin, and the protoevangelium (Genesis 3:15).
• Insightful connections between the Old Testament and New Testament narratives.
• Fascinating breakout segments on “Quotes from Antiquity,” “Moments in History,” and “Facts from Archaeology.”
Perfect for laypeople, students, and educators alike, this audiobook is an invaluable resource for understanding the foundational stories and teachings that continue to shape faith and culture today. It is available for purchase on major audiobook platforms, including Audible, and Amazon, with the digital supplement accessible via a link provided with purchase.


 Key Themes of the Old Testament: A Survey of Major Theological Themes. Moncton, N.B.: Electronic Christian Media, 2013.

7 X 10 format, 366 pages. 
 
 Paperback Black & White  ISBN: 978-1478122692
Kindle Digital ASIN: B00GVYWVJC
Amazon AudioBook ASIN: 
Logos Digital Software edition: Coming soon
For Further information SEE LINK.


_________

For Journal articles and papers see  Follow me on Academia.edu or Selected Works


For all books by Dr. David E. Graves
 
 
Updated April, 2025

Apr 5, 2025

Audiobook Archaeology of the NT


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 04, 2025  

Unveiling the Past: Dr. David E. Graves’ Groundbreaking Book on New Testament Archaeology Now Available as an Audiobook  

 

Electronic Christian Media is thrilled to announce the first audiobook release of The Archaeology of the New Testament by renowned archaeologist Dr. David E. Graves. This compelling exploration of over 75 up-to-date archaeological finds from the New Testament (NT) period is now accessible not just in print but also now in audio format, bringing history to life for listeners everywhere.  

 Amazon Audible


While thousands of artifacts connected to the Bible have been unearthed, many remain overlooked or dismissed by revisionist scholars. In this meticulously researched work, Dr. Graves counters these narratives, presenting evidence that confirms the historicity of NT events. From the ministry of Jesus to Paul’s missionary journeys and the seven churches of Revelation, Graves tours key sites, revealing how local culture, architecture, and religion shaped the first-century world and shed new light on the biblical text.  

 

This audiobook offers:  

    A fascinating journey through NT chronology, archaeological dating, and the role of artifacts like pottery, inscriptions, ossuaries, coins, and manuscripts.  

    Vivid descriptions of more than 175 color photographs, detailed maps, and charts (detailed verbally for audio listeners). 

    Extensive primary source references converted from their abbreviations for easier understanding and for deeper exploration.

 

Perfect for laypeople, students, church groups, or anyone curious about the intersection of archaeology and faith, this audiobook provides an engaging and accessible way to understand the cultural and historical context of the New Testament. Whether you’re in a seminary course, college classroom, or simply exploring personal study, Dr. Graves’ expertise will captivate and inform.  


The Archaeology of the New Testament is now available as an audiobook on Amazon Audible. Step into the past and uncover the tangible evidence behind the biblical narrative—listen today!  

For more information, interviews, or review copies, please contact Dr David E. Graves. 


7X10 format, 312 pages.
Universal book Links 
Paperback Black & White.
Paperback Colour ISBN: 978-1089212201
Hardcover Colour. ISBN: 979-8707918643
Kindle Digital ASIN: B0CWCKDF1D
Audio Book: B0FSB89KH 

Logos Digital Software edition: Coming soon

_________

For Journal articles and papers see  Follow me on Academia.edu or Selected Works


For all books by Dr. David E. Graves
 
 
Updated April, 2025

Feb 4, 2025

The Unsung Hero of Ancient Texts: Luke Farritor's Journey from SpaceX to Pompeii

In the world of archaeology, history, and tech, there's a name that's been making waves, not just for his innovative use of artificial intelligence, but for his contribution to uncovering the secrets of the past. Meet Luke Farritor, a name you might not have heard outside of certain tech and historical circles, but whose story is nothing short of remarkable.

From SpaceX to Ancient Scrolls

Luke Farritor, once an intern at SpaceX, is not your average computer science student. While his peers were probably coding algorithms for the next big app, Luke was diving into history with AI, literally decoding the past. His journey took a fascinating turn when he participated in the Vesuvius Challenge, a global contest aimed at reading ancient scrolls from Herculaneum, a city destroyed by the same volcanic eruption that claimed Pompeii in 79 AD.

These scrolls, charred and unreadable for centuries, were a treasure trove of lost knowledge, potentially containing philosophical texts, literature, or even unknown works by famous ancient authors. They were discovered in the 18th century, but their fragility meant that for nearly 275 years, we've been unable to open these burnt papyrus without turning them to dust. 

The Breakthrough with AI

Enter Luke Farritor with his AI model. His approach was groundbreaking. By using machine learning, Luke managed to identify the first word from these scrolls without ever physically unrolling them. And what was this word? Porphyras - the Greek term for "purple." This breakthrough wasn't just a technical achievement; it was a poetic one. Purple, a color associated with royalty, luxury, and mystery in ancient times, perfectly symbolized the unveiling of long-lost knowledge.

This discovery was not only special because it was the first word deciphered from these scrolls but also because of what it represented. For Luke, "purple" wasn't just a color; it was a connection to centuries-old human ingenuity and the endless quest for knowledge.

It also has special significance for me as I had also published on this word and purple dye.

Graves, David E. “What Is the Madder with Lydia’s Purple? A Re-Examination of the Purpurarii in Thyatira and Philippi.” Near East Archaeological Society Bulletin 62 (2017): 3–29.




The Vesuvius Challenge Grand Prize

Luke didn't stop at one word. His dedication, along with a team of like-minded innovators, led them to win the grand prize of the Vesuvius Challenge, decoding significant portions of the text. This victory was announced with much fanfare, earning him and his team $700,000, but more importantly, the respect and admiration of scholars worldwide.

A Dual Life: Tech Innovator and Activist

But Luke's story doesn't end with ancient scrolls. Before diving into this historical endeavor, he was involved in a more contemporary battle. As part of his commitment to transparency and accountability, Luke was involved in efforts to scrutinize the use of taxpayer money, notably targeting agencies like USAID. His activities in this area showcase a young man not just brilliant in tech but also deeply committed to societal good, challenging how public funds are managed and spent.

The Impact and Future

Luke Farritor's story is a vivid illustration of how technology can bridge the gap between the past and the present. His work has not only contributed to our understanding of ancient texts but has also sparked interest in how AI can be a tool for historical research. The implications are vast - from recovering texts from other damaged manuscripts worldwide to potentially revolutionizing how we preserve and study ancient artifacts.

For those like me, who find joy in the melding of technology and history, Luke's achievements are a beacon of inspiration. His journey from a SpaceX intern to a key player in uncovering ancient secrets reminds us that the next big discovery might just be coded into existence by someone as young and passionate as Luke Farritor.

In a world where technology often seems to disconnect us from our roots, Luke's work is a beautiful reminder of how it can reconnect us with the wisdom of our ancestors. Here's to more young innovators like Luke, who remind us that the future can indeed learn from the past, one AI-decoded word at a time.

See his YouTube interview

"Welcome to Biblical Archaeology from the Ground Down! Mark your calendars, because on March 10th, 2025, we’ve got an incredible episode lined up. We’ll be sitting down with Dr. Brent Seales, Luke’s very own professor and the brilliant mind behind the groundbreaking X-ray scanning of the carbonized Herculaneum papyrus. You won’t want to miss this deep dive into ancient discoveries and cutting-edge technology—stay tuned!"

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For Journal articles and papers see  Follow me on Academia.edu or Selected Works


For all books by Dr. David E. Graves
 
 
Updated January, 2025

Jan 14, 2025

Explorers of the Lost Vaults


Teaser Video

For a list of all podcasts see

LINK

Unveiling Secrets: Introducing 'Explorers of the Lost Vaults'

Welcome to an exciting new journey into the heart of history with our latest podcast, "Explorers of the Lost Vaults." I am thrilled to announce that I, together with our host George Sparks from Bible Interact, have embarked on this fascinating endeavor where we delve deep into the secluded vaults of some of the world's most renowned museums.

The Concept:

"Explorers of the Lost Vaults" is not just a podcast; it's an adventure. Each episode takes us through the locked doors of museum vaults, places where the public eye seldom reaches. These vaults house artifacts that are rarely, if ever, displayed. Our mission? To bring these hidden treasures into the light, discuss their stories, analyze their significance, and share the untold narratives they hold.

What You Can Expect:

Rare Artifacts: From ancient Mesopotamian tablets to medieval manuscripts, we'll explore items that have shaped human civilization but have remained in the shadows.

Insightful Discussions: George Sparks, known for his deep dives into biblical history and archaeology, brings a wealth of knowledge to our dialogues. Together, we'll unpack the cultural, historical, and sometimes spiritual significance of each artifact.

Behind-the-Scenes Access: Ever wondered what it's like to walk through the less-traveled corridors of a museum? We'll share our experiences, from the initial key turn to the moment we first lay eyes on an artifact.

Interviews with Experts: Not every episode will just be George and me. We'll invite historians, archaeologists, and curators to join us, providing professional insights and enriching our understanding.

Why 'Explorers of the Lost Vaults'?

Our world is rich with history, yet so much of it remains hidden or forgotten. This podcast aims to:

Educate: By bringing forgotten histories back into conversation, we aim to educate listeners on the breadth of human achievement and the mysteries of the past.

Inspire: There's something inherently inspiring about uncovering the past. We hope to ignite a passion for history, archaeology, and cultural preservation in our audience.

Connect: Artifacts are not just objects; they are connections to the past. Through this podcast, we connect listeners across time, linking modern humans with their ancestors through shared stories and experiences.

First Episode Sneak Peek:

In our inaugural episode, we'll journey into the vaults of the Museum of Archaeology and Biblical History in Albuquerque, NM, where we'll examine many artifacts that have never been displayed publicly. We'll explore their intricate designs, discuss its journey from ground to vault, and ponder what it tells us about beliefs of ancient people.

Join the Journey:

"Explorers of the Lost Vaults" is set to air its first episode on [insert date]. Make sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to ensure you don’t miss out on this adventure. We're also active on social media, where we'll post previews, behind-the-scenes content, and engage with you, our listeners, to shape the direction of this journey.

Whether you're a history buff, a lover of mysteries, or simply curious about what lies behind those locked doors, "Explorers of the Lost Vaults" promises to be an enlightening journey into the heart of history. Join us, George Sparks and myself, as we unlock the secrets of the past, one vault at a time.



1. Explorers of the Lost Vaults: Teaser

January, 2025


2. Bronze Bust: Emperor Vespasian used as a Weight
February, 2025

February, 2025




February, 2025

5. The Jesus Boat: Artifacts Found
March 24, 2025

For a list of our Archaeology from the Ground Down Podcasts see Links

 _________

For Journal articles and papers see  Follow me on Academia.edu or Selected Works


For all books by Dr. David E. Graves
 
 
Updated April, 2025

Jan 11, 2025

Beneath the Sands of Time My Memoirs


Uncovering the Past: A Journey Through Biblical Lands

My journey, chronicled in my book Beneath the Sands of Time, isn't merely an academic pursuit; it's a personal odyssey through the very places where history and faith intertwine.

From Academia to Adventure

My story begins with a passion for the Old Testament, nurtured through years of study at the University of Aberdeen, where I earned my PhD. From those formative days of teaching archaeology for Liberty University, the call of the Levant was irresistible, pulling me towards its archaeological riches and biblical narratives.

The Thrill of Discovery

Each dig site has been a chapter in my life's narrative. At Tel el-Hammam, we unearthed what is almost certainly the remains of Sodom, a city whose name evokes both moral lessons and geological intrigue. The layers of ash and burnt earth told stories not just of destruction but of human resilience and folly. 

The climb up the Ahora Gorge on Mount Ararat, in search of Noah's Ark, was more than an adventure; it was a testament to the allure of the quest for truth. Despite the inaccessible location, the possibility that we might touch something from the time of the great flood kept us going, fueled by curiosity and reverence for the past.

The Qumran caves offered another profound experience. Here, the Dead Sea Scrolls gave us insights into ancient Jewish life, scripture, and community. The privileged work of participating in such a historic excavation at cave 53 was certainly a thrill of a lifetime.

Biblical Ai and Shiloh, sites central to biblical history, have been particularly enlightening. At Ai, we debated the Joshua narrative, trying to reconcile the biblical account with archaeological evidence. In Shiloh, where the Tabernacle once stood, we felt the weight of history under our boots, imagining the processions and ceremonies that would have taken place there. Standing on the likely spot where the tabernacle once stood sent chills down my spine.

Participating in these excavations, I've come to appreciate the complexities involved - from securing funding to managing a diverse team, from the excitement of a new discovery to the patience required when the earth yields nothing but stones. Each site has taught me about the broader human story, about migration, culture, and survival.

But this journey isn’t solely about the artifacts we unearth. It’s about the stories these places tell, the lessons they teach us about humanity. Teaching has always been a joy for me, not just in the classroom but in the field, where students can touch history with their own hands. Seeing their eyes light up with the realization that they are part of history's ongoing narrative is perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my work.

More Than Just Digging

Beneath the Sands of Time is more than a memoir of digs and discoveries; it's a reflection on how these explorations have shaped my life, my faith, and my understanding of the world. Whether you're a scholar, a history enthusiast, or someone who simply loves a good story, I invite you to join me on this journey. Together, let's explore the depths where history was written, and in doing so, perhaps find a bit more of ourselves beneath the sands of time.

6 X 9 format, ca 439 pages 
Over 550 pictures
7 Maps

Paperback B&W ISBN: 979-8306699899 Amazon ASIN: B0DSTXHN88
Paperback Colour ISBN: 979-8306711324 Amazon ASIN: B0DSTZGVC5

 
Updated January, 2025. © Copyright Electronic Christian Media