ABSTRACT
Children played an important role in the ancient Israelite household. They were valued for many reasons attesting to their social, economic, legal, emotional, and religious value. Their great value also made them vulnerable. Drawing upon relevant texts and archaeological realia, this essay explores a child’s life from pre-birth to death, exploring various aspects of a child’s world including birth rituals, naming rituals, ways they were cared for, gendering moments, and household religion.
