The biannual Israel Exploration Journal, a peer-reviewed journal published for over half a century, serves as a major interdisciplinary scholarly forum for current archaeological, historical, philological, and geographical research about Israel and its environs. Articles span a broad chronological range, from prehistoric through historical periods. The primary emphasis is on the archaeology of Israel, with articles reporting on current archaeological excavations and presenting and discussing ancient texts, inscriptions, and other finds. Other themes of interest include biblical archaeology, historical geography; Dead Sea Scroll research; ancient synagogues and churches; tombs and burial customs; floral and faunal analyses; trade and commerce; metallurgy; cult sites and temples; and underwater archaeology.

Israel Exploration Society (IES) is a non-profit organization whose goal is to further historical, geographical and archaeological research concerning the Land of Israel. Over the years, it has organized and sponsored some of the most important archaeological projects carried out in the country. It plays a key role in archaeological research covering all periods from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period, coordinating much of the multi-institutional archaeological research conducted by Israeli and foreign archaeological expeditions. Major activities include organizing excavations, enlisting financial support for archaeological projects, and cooperation with Israeli and foreign institutions in the field of publication in a collective effort to promote the cause of archaeology. The IES disseminates knowledge gained from the exploration of Israel to the general public in Israel and abroad, through annual archaeological conferences, meetings, and congresses. It publishes excavation reports and other archaeological volumes, including the bi-annual Israel Exploration Journal and the bi-annual Hebrew-language journal Qadmoniot.