"The cover illustration depicts a piece of "gold glass" found near Rome. The menorah, or seven-branched lamp stand, was a popular symbol of Judaism and can be found on such famous architectural monuments as the Arch of Titus. The scene on this "gold glass" also shows other items of Jewish ritual significance, including the Ark of the Covenant flanked by two Lions, a "shofar" or trumpet, a palm branch, and an oil jar. Many of these items held strong messianic significance and figured prominently in the life of Israel, such as in the Feast of Tabernacles (or Booths). The photo appears courtesy of the Vatican Library and is used with permission."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved