Here I am, getting ready to head off on my trip back in time and around the globe to Pompeii, AD 79!
It's easy to see the Roman influence on Pompeii. From the architecture to the weaponry of gladiators, Rome's influence was strong. Look at the detail in this helmet and these shin guards.
What an inspiration it was to see so many items from daily life in Bible times. Here is a common oil lamp which is probably similar to the lamp we learn about in Psalm 119:105: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."
There were so many artifacts, amazingly preserved by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Look at these beautiful red clay bowls. These are believed to have been imported to Pompeii from France (called Gaul at that time) and would have been some of the finest serving pieces of the household.
This glazed ceramic plate is thought to have been imported from the Middle East during the first half of the first century AD - the same time period as when the disciples were spreading the Gospel through this region. Wow!
From tableware to jewelry, there were a surprising amount and variety of items in beautiful condition. This pretty blue necklace is made of glass paste and was an affordable alternative for women who couldn't afford gold jewelry.
This gold rope-chain necklace and armbands don't really look like they're 2000-year-old pieces, do they? It's easy to imagine seeing these in a jewelry store case today.
There were several wall murals and city models which really gave you the feel for the size and complexity of the city. You could just imagine the busy markets and homes filled with people going about their daily lives, not knowing the danger that lurked so nearby.
If you're in the Cincinnati area before the exhibit moves on in August, don't miss the chance to peek back into life almost 2000 years ago, as well as gain a better understanding of the awesome power of volcanoes.
Blessings,
Amanda B.
PS. Don't miss the sale on the Volatile Volcanoes DNG this week!
Wow, thanks for the great commentary on the Pompei exhibit. It sounds wonderful. I am going to check and see if it will be coming in our neck of the woods any time soon! I love the idea of not just merely looking at the artifacts and moving on, but of tying them into a timeline of when they were actually used and by whom. History and the bible become real to our kids and ourselves for that matter! Great job, thanks, Anna
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome, Anna! I hope that you and your crew get a chance to see it - one of the best exhibits that I've seen in a long time. I've figured out that if I connect everything to time, it's easier to see the big picture, for both kids and grownups. I was so moved to be able to see so many things that connected to the time of our Lord and His disciples - from the mill stone to the dish to the oil lamp - it was such a special experience!
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