Life In Biblical Times - Homes

DIFFERENT TYPES OF HOMES...

Some people lived in houses while others, like Moses and Abraham, lived in tents (because they were always traveling). Stil others lived in caves. Living in caves had many advantages (I'm serious!). Caves were cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Plus caves needed little upkeep. Caves were also used as stables for animals. Tradition says that Jesus was born in a cave that was used as a stable.

Most people lives in houses built within a walled city, however. This provided protection from outlaws and enemy armies.

WHAT THEY WERE MADE OF...

Most houses were made of mud bricks (bricks made of mud that were hardened by being out in the sun) or stones. It was covered in a layer of plaster. The roof was flat and served as a extra room (because cities were very crowded space was limited). The windows didn't have glass but a shutter that could be opened or closed. The roof served as a place to wash clothes or just to sit outside and enjoy a nice day.

FURNISHINGS...

Homes were decorated simply (unless you were wealthy). They had mats on the floor, oil lamps lit the room, there were a few chairs and a table, maybe a storage chest, and curtains were used as doors within the house. A room in the house might be used to store food.

(Source: Manners & Customs Of The Bible)