Wandering Arameans: Arameans Outside Syria. Textual and Archaeological Perspectives

A comprehensive analysis reveals the linguistic and cultural evolution of Aramaic outside Syria, from its diverse forms in the 9th century BCE to its standardization under Achaemenid rule. The study traces morphological features of written Aramaic, identifying Eastern and Central Syrian varieties, while also examining the intentional consolidation of language during the Neo-Assyrian period. Archaeological evidence, such as the 'altar kit' at Tel Dan, challenges ethnic attributions but supports the presence of Aramean influences in Judah and Israel. Additionally, the volume explores social mobility among Judean exiles in Babylonia and the assimilation of Arameans like Ahiqar into Assyrian identity. Methodological approaches include textual analysis, linguistic comparison, and historical reconstruction, providing a nuanced understanding of Aramean dispersion and cultural integration across Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant.

Chow, C. (2018). Wandering Arameans: Arameans Outside Syria. Textual and Archaeological Perspectives. Bulletin for Biblical Research, 28(2), 270–272. https://doi.org/10.5325/bullbiblrese.28.2.0270