Jordan Dig

On July 4th, I will be joining some archeologists from La Sierra University on an archeological dig in Jordan.  The team of between 50 and 60 enthusiastic faculty and students will be headed by Dr. Douglas Clark, a faculty member at LSU.  I will be posting regular reports on this blog from the dig site with news about the people, the site, and interesting artifacts that we hope will be found.

The site is to be at the Tall al Umayri situated on the Madaba Plains just south of Amman.  You can read  more detail about the project on the website madabaplains.org.

Before joining the archeologists at the dig, I will be spending a few days traveling in Jordan with my sister Lynne Bellville and her friend Mary Aqleh.

Why am I doing this?  There are several reasons, but perhaps the best answer is expressed in the Arabic saying -           

which means -  Don't abandon your dreams.  I have always had a peripheral, amateur interest in ancient civilizations in the Middle East and in biblical history, and for the first time ever I now have a chance to seriously pursue that interest through a personal, hands on experience.  So, let's do it!

This trip will also provide the opportunity for me to revisit some of the remarkable and stunning sites in Jordan.  Here are a couple of samples of photographs from my previous visits to Jordan.

The Treasury at Petra

The Roman City of Jerash - The Forum and Main Street

The excavations at Umayri will begin on July 5 after a detailed orientation by the archeologists.  Before that, I will be travelling around Jordan enjoying the remarkable sites of the country and wonderful hospitality of its people.  I plan to post here regular reports on life and events of the dig for colleagues and friends.