Light from the Ancient East by Adolf Deissmann (1995 Hardcover 1st Thus)




This invaluable study of non-literary Greek and Latin texts from the period leading up to and contemporary with the rise and early development of Christianity is once again available after being out of print for nearly a decade. Deissmann's work with inscriptions on stone, metal, papyrus, and potsherds has long been widely recognized for the light it sheds upon the New Testament in its historical and cultural context. Eighty-five illustrations further illumine the discussion of these texts.


Gustav Adolf Deissmann (1866–1937) was a German Protestant theologian, best known for his leading work on the Greek language used in the New Testament, which he showed was the koine, or commonly used tongue of the Hellenistic world of that time. Deissmann was professor of theology at the Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg (1897–1908), and then at the Friedrich Wilhelms University of Berlin (1908–1935). He was twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, and held eight honorary doctorates from 6 different countries.


First published 1908 as "Licht vom Osten. Das Neue Testament und die neuentdeckten Texte der hellenistisch-römischen Welt." in Tübingen, Germany. 1910 saw the publication of an English translation by Lionel R. M. Strachan in London. Discovery of expanded material forced the need of four revised editions through 1922 to become the basis of the English version published by George H. Duran in 1925. This edition is a reprint of that 1925 edition made available again 70 years later.


This copy is a hardcover with black cloth boards with gold and red lettering & designs on front and spine., but has no DJ. Gold lettering in red shadowboxes on spine. Interior is tight, clean and unmarked. Near New copy.



No copyright asserted, because beyond statute. Printed in U.S.A. Indicated from First Printing November, 1995. ISBN: 1-56563-155-2. No LCCN nor MSR.



Notes on Condition/Edition ratings:


Fine – means like new, but any book produced over 10 years ago isn't “brand new” or even “new.”  Booksellers needed some word to describe this...


Like New – A new book, no marks no damage (except maybe remainder marks or shelf-wear) except not obtained directly from the publisher or in packaging from the publisher.


Very Good – How you or I might take care of a book, closer to “as new” than standard. Might show ownership.


Good – How someone else might take care of a book. Also referred to as “standard.” This is the most likely condition for books of this age & title, shows the book has been read or previously owned.


Acceptable – How a child, student or a librarian might take care of a book. (Either trying to make sure

someone doesn't steal it by plastering ownership everywhere, filled it with copious notes or a book that has been damaged.)


Poor – Combination of “acceptable” factors above. Most likely with water damage as well. Might have

missing pages (you should ask).


Near – Means “almost” in an optimistic sense. e.g., “Near Fine” means very good, but on the high end.


1st Thus – Unique somehow, maybe 1st paperback, new illustrator, misprint or even the 1st edition. A collector

might desire this copy.


Thanks for looking!