Cambridge Dictionary of Bible Plants is New from Musselman

"A Dictionary of Bible Plants" by Lytton John Musselman, ODU Mary Payne Hogan Professor of Botany, has been published by Cambridge University Press.

Musselman, an expert in the plants of the Holy Land, includes descriptions and illustrations of each plant mentioned in the Old and New Testament and the Apocrypha. Also, the author identifies plants mentioned in controversial biblical passages.

"Here, finally, we have a definitive and informative treatment of the plants of the Bible, both small and large. Highly recommended," wrote reviewer Ben Witherington III of Ashbury Theological Seminary. The book was released in mid-December.

The book draws on Musselman's field investigations from Beirut to Borneo and from the Atlas to the Zagros mountains. It includes the author's original photos of each plant.

Incorporating new research on the use of Bible plants, the text also reviews recent analytical studies of plants used in materials and technology, as well as ancient grains, beer production, medicine, tensile materials, soaps and other articles.

Four years ago, Musselman's "Figs, Dates, Laurel, and Myrrh: Plants of the Bible and the Quran" was published by Timber Press. At the time, he said, "I was brought up in a home with a high regard for the Bible. It is a shaping influence on my background and development. In addition, I love plants. This book is a conflation of two loves."