Using literary and archaeological evidence, nine prominent rabbinic Judaism and early Christianity scholars trace the evolution of the synagogue. "A vital collection and a model of how research should connect archaeological findings with written texts and ancient social structures." Fred W.--Sanford Lakoff "Religious Studies Review " "Biblical scholars and archaeology buffs will appreciate this informative update on the issue." Donald Senior, C.P.--Sanford Lakoff "The Bible Today " Howard Clark Kee is Professor of Religion Emeritus of Graduate Studies and Religion at Boston University and is now Visiting Scholar at the University of Pennsylvania. He is author of several acclaimed books including Understanding the New Testament, The Cambridge Companion to the Bible, Miracles in the Early Christian World, and Jesus in History.