Travel in Biblical Times The Bible contains many narratives that provide insight into the travel conditions and practices of the biblical world. Such narratives include:

• Abraham’s journeys;

• the exodus and wilderness wanderings;

• Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem;

• the story of the Good Samaritan; and

• Paul’s missionary travels.

Noncanonical literature also includes accounts of people traveling in the ancient world. For example, in Tobit 5:4–6:18, Tobias travels from Ecbatana to Rages—a trip of about 185 miles that took Alexander the Great and his armies 11 days (Arrian, Anabasis 3.20). Additionally, the works of Greek and Roman authors can help contextualize our understanding of biblical travel. Works of particular value include:

• Herodotus’ The Histories;

• Julius Caesar’s The Gallic Wars;

• Josephus’ The Jewish War and The Antiquities of the Jews;

• Apuleius’ The Golden Ass; and

• Pausanias’ Description of Greece.

Beyond literary evidence, archaeological evidence provides a glimpse into travel practices in antiquity. Although many travel-related items (e.g., clothes, bags, tents, and tack and harnesses) were made from natural materials that have not stood the test of time, there are depictions of such items in ancient engravings and artwork. Archaeologists have uncovered shipwrecks that provide insight into travel by boat (Casson, Ships and Seamanship). Roman roads also provide a valuable source for our understanding of travel (Chevallier, Roman Roads; Tsafrir et al., Tabula Imperii).