Roman Numerals

Synopsis: In this second novel of the series, Art West seeks out the meaning of the mysterious symbolic number 666 while exploring sites in Egypt and Turkey. He discovers an inscription in southern Egypt at the Philae Temple in Aswan, which reads, "He is many men and no man, towering like the sphinx, dead and alive, but who knows what he thinks? Back from the Styx; 666." Who is this sphinx-like man? Could he be relevant to the twenty-first century? These questions lead Art to investigate possible connections between the Coptic Gospels and Coptic Orthodox beliefs. In the middle of such investigations Art is involved in a harrowing prisoner exchange in Israel at the hands of Hamas, and he discovers the origins of Christians wearing crosses. He also tangles with the notorious terrorist El Tigre. Set in the context of Middle East tensions between Muslims, Christians, and Jews, this fast-paced thriller explores the meaning of eschatological or "end times" language for the earliest Christians, who, while trying to spread the kingdom of God, faced the rising tide of the kingdom of Caesar and his emperor cult. Along the way West learns some apocalyptic secrets destined to change his life forever. Endorsements: "Stolen treasures, murderous adversaries, intellectual detectives uncovering truths of the deepest value amid middle eastern loves, hatreds, and rivalries--these are just a few of the things that make this Witherington thriller gripping, fast-paced, and philosophically stimulating. 'Roman Numerals' is high stakes intrigue based in the best real world scholarship. It will grab you at the outset, and hold you hostage until the very end!" --Thomas V. Morris Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus Notre Dame University "In his second adventure, the intrepid archaeologist Art West discovers an inscription mentioning the apocalyptic number 666 at Philae on the Nile. The search for the solution of this cryptic cipher moves through Egypt, Israel, Turkey, and America. Noted biblical scholar Ben Witherington and his wife Ann weave an engrossing story combining Coptic history, illegal antiquities, terrorism, professional basketball, and romance. The result is a great read for those who enjoy the world of ancient history and archaeology." --Mark Wilson Asia Minor Research Center Izmir, Turkey Author Biographical Information: Ben Witherington III is Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary and doctoral faculty at St. Andrews University, and the author of over thirty-five books, including 'New York Times' Best Seller 'The Brother of Jesus'. Ann Witherington is Professor of Biology and Environmental Sciences at Asbury College. Ben and Ann have been married for over thirty years and have two adult children, Christy and David.