The bronze age is heading towards the iron age in the Eastern Mediteranean. Three thousand years later, archaeologists label my time "Iron Age II".
But our tools are mostly still wood and stone. We are villagers, farmers, herders, hunter-gatherers still. Some of us live in hamlets, others in tents; a handful in towns or even cities. I went to one of those once.
My home is mud-brick. I was born in a tent. Actually, that's not true. I was born outside, under an apple tree, of which more later. But my first years were lived in a tent. My family were herders, our flocks sheep and goats.
Hello, my name is Shulami, it's nice to meet you.
Sorry, I look like I'm frowning at you.
Don't worry, it's not you.
I was grumpy that day. Blame my brothers!
I have three of them. All older.
Bossy!
Sometimes they were OK
Actually, actually, that's me years ago.
This is me now.
Although, I'm not usually that dressed up. Especially when I'm with the flock!
Anyway, I'm a shepherdess. Well, I want to be one.
Mostly I work in our vineyard.
It's hard work. Hot. Sunny.
My job is to watch. Make sure nothing damages the vines.
Foxes can be the worst, they like the grapes. But they dig, they just dig! What is it with them digging holes?
But I'd really rather be out with the flocks. Herders have all the fun.
One of the best things about working in our vineyard is that it's next to Shlomo's olive grove.
Shlomo and I have been playing together for years.
Most of my life.
This is me being a soldier in Faroah's cavalry. At least, that's what Shlomo said.
I also play the flute. I call my flock with it. Because I do have some lambs and kid goats to look after while I'm working in the vineyard.
But I like making up songs too. Always have.
I don't remember much of what I used to sing about.
Now, I sing about ... oh, don't worry, you'll soon see.
Would you like to hear a song?
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