The majority of the biblical story took place in a very small yet interesting land nestled along the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. However, fully understanding the context of the biblical narrative requires casting a wider net, one that encompasses all of Israel s neighbors. Richly documented with maps and profusely illustrated, Understanding the Geography of the Bible , the third in the series of Carta s introductory atlases to the biblical world, provides a comprehensive view of the geographical background to life in biblical times. Topography, climate and natural forces shaped the lives of the people of the Ancient Near East and affected their different cultures, economies and modes of life. Their relationship and interaction account for the richness, depth and majesty of the biblical narrative. ".