"Drawing from insights of the social sciences, Harland seeks to clarify certain dynamics of identity among groups of Judeans and Christians by looking at archaeological evidence for other contemporary associations and cultural minority groups. He covers Judean and Christians identities in the context of associations, familial dimensions of group identity, identity and acculturation among Judeans and other ethnic associations, and group interactions and rivalries. Specific topics include brothers in associations and congregations, Judean families and guilds at hierapolis, associations at Sardis and Smyrna, and anti-associations and their banquets." -Eithne O'Leyne, BOOK NEWS, Inc.