Final for Old Testament

Wisdom Literature in Ancient Near East

wisdom literature of OT shared with Egyptian and Mesopotamian wisdom 3 things in particular: Common subject matter, Common literary form, and Common world view Edom has wisdom tradition Phoenicia also has wise men within its borders Egypt however, wisdom texts are more numerous, Isaiah condemns the wise men of Pharaoh for their arrogance Wisdom schools were frequently attached to royal court

Systematic Theology and Wisdom Literature

wisdom ultimately revealed in Jesus Christ as light, grace, and truth wisdom literature fits into the category of third use of law = guides people to live sanctified life in the light of revealed truth and as our response to grace of God Knowledge is not the same as widsom, but wisdom literature of OT provides us info

What is love?

A commitment

Definition of Apocalyptic Literature

A type of Jewish and early Christian literature containing visions or revelations from God regarding the end times The Period: ca. 200 B.C. to 100 A.D. - OT: Joel, Amos, Zechariah, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel all apocalyptic - NT: The Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24:1-25:46), 1 Thess. 4:13-18, and Revelation all apocalyptic The political cartoonist - uses picture language to illustrate the message just like apocalyptic literature - Apocalyptic literature needs to be interpreted in the light of the historical setting

Apocalyptic and the New Testament

Many mentions of son of man, resurrection, and final judgement Symbolism is derived from 3 sources, OT (especially from Daniel), contemporary life in the Roman province of Asia, and Jewish apocalyptic literature - The Old Testament (e.g., beasts, symbolizing kingdoms, as enemies of God from Daniel 7, see Rev. 13:11) Numbers also convey certain messages, many of them logical like idea of unity, uniqueness, independence, or self-existence

What do the Old Testament words for love teach us about marriage?

Marriage needs friendship, devotion, and romance

Who challenged Esther with the words "for such a time as this?"

Mordecai

Daniel Key word

Dreams (Visions)

True or False: Ezra was among those who were alive when Haggai and Zechariah prophesied.

False

Esther Irreducible Minimums

Threat to the Jews Triumph of the Jews

Introduction and Authoriship of Malachi

concludes 12 minor prophets and leads to ministry of John the Baptist, message about love for God and covenant God made with his people Unknown artist, but name means My Messenger (people think of office rather than person)

An oriental description of beauty (Song of Solomon 4:1-4)

contains oriental language and imagery when describing girl (makes book harder to understand)

Stanza structure

some evidence of stanza structure in poetical sections of OT in certain refrains, but refrains never became a standard feature of Hebrew poetry Hebrew word Shlah = "musical interlude" suggests instrumental interlude b/w sections of the psalm acrostic structure, each new letter of the alphabet suggests new strophe/ stanza

Varieties of poetry

songs, taunt songs, love poetry, laments, military themes, swan songs, oracles, and poetry for worship

Job Keyword

suffering

Dating of the Psalms

depends on authorship of psalms Psalm 90 = 1410 B.C. All of David's + = 1043-970 B.C. Psalms 72, 88, 89, 127 = 970-931 B.C. Psalm 137 = 607-538 B.C. Psalms 107, 126 = 538 B.C. Psalm 147 = 444 B.C.

The Name of the Book (Psalms)

"Praises" - Tehillim (Hebrew) Greek Septuagint name is "Songs" (Greek - Psalmoi) Psalms comes from "songs," from the Vulgate Psalmi Psalmi Psalmos is a "song" a term derived from a word meaning "to pluck or twang" (from harp strings or bow strings) English names include Psalms and Psalter, coming from Greek Psalterion meaning "a collection of harp songs"

Ecclesiastes Key word

Emptiness

Textual notes on Job 19:25-27

"from my flesh" presents idea that a bodiless mode of human existence is foreign to the Hebrew mentality would have no meaning if Job expected to be alive for his vindication, refers to death then refers to an event after death 27 talking about vindication of his honor and the establishment of his innocence, though the ideas of Messiah/resurrection of the body/Last judgement are not totally excluded. Best mixes points 1 and 3

The Intertestamental Period - Palestine under Seleucid Rule

- Antiochus Epiphanes IV (his reign is key for understanding 1 & 2 Maccabees) 1st is about 40 years of Jewish history and talks about him coming into throne Two Goals: - Unity - Expansion of Hellenization In 169 B.C. Antiochus raids Jerusalem temple In 168 B.C. Forbids Temple sacrifice, circumcision, and reading of the scriptures, Jewish festivals, and the Sabbath. Destroyed many copies of the Torah and requires offerings to Greek God Zeus. Erects Altar to Zeus

Nine Characteristics of Apocalyptic Literature

- Cosmic Dualism - Dualism = refers to struggle b/w 2 forces (good and evil). - Visions & Revelations (Acts 10) - contrast b/w Present evil age vs. coming eschatological age (relating to end of time) - Unity of history and a goal towards which history is moving (headed towards Gods ultimate end of all history and all mankind) - Life after death, Resurrection of the righteous and judgement on the wicked - Often find The Son of Man = transcendent figure in apocalyptic literacy - writings are not the descriptions of actual ecstatic experiences but rather self-conscious theological creations by the author (revealed by God) - Symbolism (some from OT, especially from Daniel, like animals symbolizing people and nations) - Pseudonymous = authors who is claimed to have the writings accepted as authentic, or to avoid persecution by authorities, or perhaps as a mere literary custom with no attempt to deceive

Liturgical Use in Judaism - Psalm

- Many psalms connected to Particular days or festivals in Judaism - The Talmud records specific points in the synagogue service for the use of psalms. - Rites of the Second Temple, Psalms were sung by choirs of Levitical tribes - Synagogue worship used psalms for congregation

The Intertestamental Period - The Greek Period

- Philip II is king of Macedonia and founder of city of Philippi in Macedonia. Known for uniting Greek city states and put together a military machine Philips son, Alexander the Great defeated persians even though he was outnumbered 2 to 1. His legacy was Hellenism (Hellas), dominates land and leaves men behind to convert them, died at 33 and divided among 4 generals. Ptolemy takes control of Egypt, Seleucus in Babylonia. Lysimachus governs Asia Minor and Thrace, and Lassander rules Macedonia (Greece)

The Order of the Writings In the Hebrew Old Testament

13 books of Writings appear: Poetic Books: - Psalms - Job - Proverbs The Scrolls, or Megilloth: - Ruth - Song of Solomon - Ecclesiastes - Lamentations - Esther Historical Books: - Daniel - Ezra - Nehemiah - 1 Chronicles - 2 Chronicles

Overview of Ecclesiastes

1:1, Title/ introduction to the theme, which is incomplete until the last 2 verses of the book 1:2-11, the first of five poetic-proverbial sections, nothing new ever happens 1:12-2:26, Illustrations on Meaninglessness without God in out life 2:24-26, the first of eight "enjoyment statements", life is good and we should find pleasure in food, drink, and our work when we do it in relationship with God 3:1-8, we cannot change the pattern of our lives 3:11, "God-shaped vacuum" in every person, vacuum that can only be filled by God Himself 5:1-7, Advice on religious observance 3:16-4-16 is about justice on earth is approximate, take serious all the promises you made to God (including marriage) 5:19, "... wealth and possessions ... a gift of God." 12:9-14, Conclusion - theme is Fear God and Obey Him. Trust him and Love him. Believe him and do what he says.

Apocalyptic literature especially abounded during what period of history?

3 centuries around the time of Christ

The Themes of Ezra-Nehemiah and Haggi-Zechariah

All have theme of rebuilding of Israel's relationship to God both literally and spiritually The time of Ezra and Nehemiah is period after exile (Babylonian captivity) which made Israel rethink it's relationship with God. They are determined to not let captivity to happen again, so Ezra and Nehemiah have 2 major concerns: Pure race and Pure religion Concerns of Pure Race: - in Genealogies: Neh. 12, Ezra 2, 7 - Eliminating Mixed Marriages with Pagan peoples Positive Side: - not mixing religions that could conflict - the Messiah Negative Side: - Exclusiveness/ arrogance leading some to have elitist attitudes towards others Concerns with Pure Religion: - Sabbath - The Temple - The Law: (monotheism, synagogues & schools, study of the Law by scribes) - The Walls (cant worship without protecting themselves first) Negative Side on these emphases are: Legalism(believe that following law will bring salvation), Ritualism(overdoing obervance of the Sabbath), & Idolatry (worship wall for not having strife) Positive Side: Worship of one God, heaven, guidance for daily living, peace through forgiveness, presence of God, etc. Negative Sides: Ritual (Sabbath, Temple), Legalism, religious zealots, and Idolatry (Law, walls)

Outline of Song of Solomon

Anticipation: The mutual affection and yearning of the lovers Found, and Lost, and Found: The bride is invited to the fields. In the evening the lovers return to their homes, but the bride is not at ease until she again finds her beloved (at least in her dreams) Consummation: Solomon arrives and is enraptured by the girl's charms (this section is often associated with their marriage) Lost and Found: The bridegroom arrives unexpectedly while the bride is in bed (or at least, she thinks he does), but when she rises to welcome him, he has vanished. She ventures outside in search of him, but the night watchmen rudely send her back to her quarters. Then Song of Solomon describes the gloom, and many continue this section with a balancing praise of the bride's beauty. Mutual praises of the other's beauty appear later in the Song of Solomon Affirmation: The lovers are inseparably united and declare the unquenchability of their affections Concludes on positive note (ends happily ever after, but we know Solomon didn't actually)

The Intertestamental Period - The Persian Period

As we leave the books of the Old Testament, we are in the Persian dominance period . Babylonian exile is over, persians have defeated Babylonians.

Authorship and Time of writing for Job

Author unknown Took place in Land of Uz = Edom Time in patriarchal period - name Job is patriarchal - mention of Noah, Daniel, and Job in Ezekiel suggests patriarchal period - closest literary parallels appears in Genesis and in Ugaritic literature - Lifespan of Job is 140 years, so age approcimates those in book of Genesis - See Job performed his own sacrifices, land subjected to raids of pillaging tribes, currency used was in Jacobs time (qesitah), ancient names were used, Job mentioned like Abrahams and Isaac, Jobs extended family Range: 2000-100 B.C.

Authorship and Date of Song of Solomon

Authorship - unknown - (hard to determine cause no scripture passage outside song of solomon discusses the book) - A person (very much possibly Solomon) with an interest in flora and fauna, just like Solomon had - Aura of luxury around him (wealthy like Solomon) - Tirzah (residence of several kings of Northern Kingdom) is mentioned favorably Date - Critics are all over the map. - Conservatives: usually around 950 B.C., the time of Solomon

Themes in Wisdom Literature

Basic theme of wisdom is the fear of the Lord also retributive justice, the Law of God, the difference b/w righteous and wicked, the tongue, limits of human knowledge, the dangers of adultery, the finality of death, the inequities of life, the hazards of strong drink, various family matters, and exhortations to trust in Lord

What is the First step in God's formula for marriage?

Become the right person

Proverbs Introduction

Book is a collection of collections, someone probably collected several smaller collections of proverbs into the book we have today - was probably collection of teaching material especially intended to be used in instruction of the young (also said in 1:4) Book has also been called "Compressed experience" = someone who had a similar experience multiple times can sometimes summarize the commonality of those experiences with a short and memorable saying Will Rogers - comedian/ american proverbialist who knew how to use words effectively Mark Twain & Ben Franklin also modern proverb writers

Historical Introduction to the period of Ezra & Nehemiah

Books used to be one book in Hebrew OT, divided in middle ages - Cyrus the Great (Persia) conquered Babylonia (539) and allows Jews to return home (538). - Temple reconstruction is started and stopped (536) due to Samaritan opposition (New king, Cambyses) until another new king (Darius) once again favored the jews and sent back help to be able to complete the temple. - Haggai's message (520, 2nd year, 6th month of Darius) - Zechariah's message (520-518, 2nd year, 8th month of Darius) - Temple reconstruction resumed (520) and completed (March 12, 515 or 516). - 60 years pass. - Ezra returns and reforms (458). - Nehemiah returns, builds walls, and reforms (444).

Ecclesiastes Irreducible Minimums

Declaration of Vanity Demonstration of Vanity Deliverance from Vanity

Job irreducible minimums

Dilemma of Job Debate of Job Deliverance of Job

Literary style of Malachi

Disputation (dialogue) form each begins with: - Statement followed by rhetorical question or challenge and then an answer by Yahweh through prophet (about 6 sections)

Date and Authorship - Proverbs

Date of authorship (composition) vs. editorship (compilation) early church fathers thought Solomon wrote them all (since he did write 3000 proverbs), then followed by Hezekiah Hezekiah's men, 25:1, "These are more proverbs of Solomon, copied by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah:"

Authorship of Psalms

David (73) Solomon (2) Heman (1) Ethan (1) Moses (1) Asaph (12) Sons of Korah (11) Anonymous (49) David called "sweet psalmist of Israel", credited with inventing/ playing good news bible musical instruments. He could also play the lyre (that was frequently used for worship) and apparently wrote psalms and poetry, organized musical guides and assigned them their roles in worship of God, old and new testament credit him with some psalms

When did Daniel live?

During the Babylonian exile

Eight Headings - Proverbs

Each verses could stand alone at beginning of section that follows in the book of Proverbs, provides evidence that smaller collections were gathered together to produce what we have today in Proverbs 1:1, "The proverbs of Solomon..." 10:1, "The proverbs of Solomon:" 22:17, "Words of the Wise" 24:23, "These also are the sayings of the wise:" 25:1, "These are more proverbs of Solomon..." 30:1, "The sayings of Agur" 31:1, "The sayings of King Lemuel" 31:10, "A wife of... Proverbs is a collection of collections

Contents of Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes is not the writings of a skeptic or a pessimist, but the results of the author's search for meaning in life - teaches us to seek happiness and meaning in our relationship with God, enjoy life but in moderation Reading a novel to see how it ends for purpose, says to Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man For God will bring every deed into judgement, including every hidden thing, good or evil Life without God is meaningless, he brings meaning and purpose

Ezra-Nehemiah Key word

Ezra = Temple Nehemiah = Walls

Wisdom Literature in OT

First category is higher or reflective wisdom (also called contemplative or speculative wisdom) is exemplified in Job and Ecclesiastes (meaning of life) (God) Second is lower or proverbial or practical wisdom (gives practical advice) (knowledge) Job questions justice and problem of suffering Ecclesiastes meaning of life and relationship with God Proverbs lower wisdom (and part of Psalm belief that righteousness is rewarded) Song of Songs sows that it carries some emphasis of wisdom, but lacks fear of Lord motif and sense of personal righteousness

Overview of Malachi

First theme is Love (Gods love) - hate = jealousy Jacob chosen instead of Esau Second theme is Honor, shows up in sins of the priests - offering blind and lame animals for sacrifice Third theme is Faithfulness, deals with mixed marriages and divorce (divorce frowned upon since God meant for couples to stay togehter) Fourth theme is Malachi is one of Divine Justice Fifth theme is Repentance, says Israel is robbing God, meaning Israel doesnt have good relationship with God Sixth theme is Serving God, saying faithful will be rewarded in coming Messianic Age (the sun of righteousness) Epilogue repeating themes from 4th speech - middle of verse specifically mentions Elijah, Jesus connecting Elijah with ministry of John the Baptist, Elijah will come to empty spot of passover night

True or False: At the end of the book of Esther, Mordecai is put to death.

Flase, its in the middle-ish of the book

The background and purpose of Esther

God remains in background guiding events to accomplish his purpose of preserving the people of Israel from destruction Story of Esther is one of the greatest successes against insurmountable odds. During 1st decade of 5th century BC, Wicked Haman (prominent court official during rule of King Xerxes) attempts to exterminate the Jews from Persian empire because of an offence he takes when Mordecai refuses to bow down to him. With incentive of a large payment from Hama for the kings treasury, Xerxes agrees to plan of Haman and casts the lot to determine the day on which the jews will be destroyed Only bravery of Esther, encouraged by her cousin Mordecai, results in a second degree that gives the jews permission to defend themselves (God is behind this). Result is comfort and assurance for the people of God that He has not abandoned them, even when He seems to be absent and evil seems to be triumphing Author Unknown - Likely written by a Jew who lived under Persian rule Xerxes: a playboy and a dunce Haman: a demonic villain Mordecai: an insightful court attendant Esther: a young woman trying to live in two worlds.

Hanukkah

Hanukkah is the Jewish festival that celebrates the Jewish victory over the Syrians in the second century B.C., one of the major events of the intertestamental period.

Malachi Key Word

Hearts of Stone

Titles of Song of Solomon

Hebrew Bible: The Song of Songs Greek Septuagint and Vulgate: Canticum Canticorum, hence the English title of Canticles English-speaking Protestantism: Song of Solomon, 1:1

Rhythm and Meter

Hebrew bible exhibits some rhythm and meter

Lessons from Daniel

Israel learned God is in control of history, and in the face of persecution, they received encouragement to stand firm in faith. God assured them that he wouldn't give unlimited power to heathen rulers but also that he did not promise a life of security and ease. Also learned that its ultimate hope is in the resurrection We learned same lessons that Israel did

The Intertestamental Period - Palestine under Roman Rule

Herod the Great (37-4 B.C.; died April 1, 4 A.D.) is an Idumean married to a Jew, After battle of Octavian, becomes the 1st Roman emperor, Caesar Augustus. Herod also supports Greek culture and fills the office of the high priest with Hellenists, which earns him the hatred of the Jews - Destruction: seen in the fact that Herod the Great is known for his many killings. Kills Aristobulus III, the new High Priest, Hyrcanus II his Brother-in-law, his Wife, and her mother-in-law, his 3 sons, and the Babies of Bethlehem - Construction: remodeled Jerusalem, built fortress of Antonia, rebuilt city of Samaria, built or remodeled eleven fortresses, cities, aqueducts, and temples

The Place of Daniel in OT

Historical-Critical View: Since Daniel is part of the Writings, it must have been written after the close of the prophetic books, ca. 200 B.C. Traditional View: Since other books of the Writings are of great antiquity, Daniel appears here because of the type of literature, not its age.

What is the most common view of Revelation?

Idealist (Symbolic)

Date of Joel

Ignoramus et Ignorabimus = We do not know, and we will not know Teachers Guess= 520-500 BC (since no king mentioned and temple seems to be operating without competition from pegan cults)

Features of Hebrew Poetry

Lack of abstract terms, meaning that imagery and metaphors are frequently used and poetry is one of the main places where such imagery is used Most important feature is parallelism of thought between two lines of poetry, 2 basic types - synonymous parallelism (2 lines are same but in different words) - antithetic parallelism (2 lines are opposite) Sometimes a third type - synthetic parallelism (second line of poetry continues the idea of the first line)

Authorship of Ecclesiastes

Jewish translation was thanks to Solomon - title verses implications, the author had great wisdom, the author ruled over Jerusalem, and author set in order many proverbs

Canon of Esther

Later some Old Testament books were debated in rabbinic literature: Ezekiel, Proverbs, Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes, and Esther - Perhaps Esther was questioned at Jamnia in 90 A.D. because the Jewish people were still enslaved to the Romans. - Esther is the only OT book not represented at Qumran, but the Qumran community probably did not celebrate Purim because the Torah did not prescribe it. Ahasuerus = Gentile authority Vashti = the church Esther = Judaism Haman = enemies of Israel Mordecai = Jesus

Joel Key Word

Locusts

Overview of Joel

Locusts and Lament: - literal locust plague is expressed poetically as picture of judgement against Israel - no offerings cause no crops "Day of the Lord" is day or destruction for unfaithful Israel - issues a call for repentance then message of comfort saying plague will pass and God will restore his land - contains eschatological (higher deeper blessing) - start of reverse of destruction Messianic Age: - The outpouring of the Holy Spirit - Judgement on all nations - The eternal deliverance of Gods people Message of Joel 2:28-32 - reformulation of Jeremiah, which stresses all people of God will be in Ministry. 3 verbs (Prophecy, Dream, See) are synonyms and disciples spoke in languages they never heard before to give message of God - cosmic signs, warning of doom, meaning deliverance, Jesus mentions events in heavens as sign of the end of age - saying anyone who calls out to the lord will be saved How was this prophecy fulfilled: - Fulfillment is confined to Pentecost (church fathers and some early mentators held this view) - Fulfillment referred to Pentecost and events in Joels time - Fulfillment occurs at Pentecost and continues through history until Parousia Concluding chapter of Judgement - blessings of Judah's repentance with the fate of unrepentant nations. Messianic age pictured as battle between nations (gods people and not gods people) - turning plowshares back into swords, but it will not help them in their battle against GOd - Final words about reassurance for Judah

Song of Solomon Key Word

Love in marriage

Interpretation of Song of Solomon

One of the most difficult books to understand Allegory/Typology: suggests book is extended metaphor (aka holding no history) while typology says text is all actual events, vehicle for some deeper spiritual truth (was view until modern scholarship) - has no hint of allegory since involves real peoples names - typology works but may not be true Drama: books was self-contained and self-consistent with giving voice lines to individuals (even stage directions), this included variations like wedding songs or simply the view that the book is mythological literature - book is "unactable" Natural/Literal: series of poems which speak clearly and explicitly of feelings, desires, concerns, hopes and fears of 2 younger lovers (love poetry or series of love poems) - deals with love, sex, and marriage but in the context of oriental language and imagery

Jewish Factions

Pharisees - Emphasized study and development of the Torah - Laymen - Stayed out of politics - Conservative Sadducees - Opposed development of the Torah - Priests & nobles - Fewer than the Pharisees - Accommodation

Excursus on Porphyry

Porphyry probably born 232 or 233 AD, probably lived in Tyre. Named Malchus. Later traveled to Athens, center of study and studied under philosopher Longinus who gave him the name Porphyry (meaning purple). Subsequently studied at Rome under the neo-Platonist philosopher Plotinus Major literary work called Against the Christians (15 books) and was suppressed by Christian Emperor Constantine, and his work was decreed for destruction by emperor Theodosius II and by Valentine. Porphyry criticizes OT book of Daniel, denying it was composed by him but by someone in Judea during Antiochus time, who is called Epiphanes Look at Daniel 11 and it matches history pretty close

Content of Proverbs

Proverbs say what they appear to say, each stand on its own, they describe how we ought to live in the light of the gospel Hassell Bullock says if one culture has come by means of natural revelation to share certain basic ideas and ethical principles with the biblical faith, we are free to recognize that without diminishing the values of and need for special revelation - basically saying recognize truth is nonbiblical literature and not confine truth to the Word of God, even though we affirm the Word of God as completely true Fear of the Lord is the beginning of both Knowledge and Wisdom Major topics addressed in Proverbs: - Our relationship with God - Two ways- The wise and the foolish, righteous and the wicked - In praise of wisdom - Work and property - Advice for all stations in life - Many verses about the world and life in general - Appendices - OT/NT Parallels

Outline of Job

Prose Prologue, chapters 1-2: - begins with prose prologue and ends with prose epilogue. b/w is 39 lines of poetry. Learn that Satan was among Gods angels and that Satan was actually a title rather than a proper name, meaning "the adversary/ the accuser", and he accused Job of only being righteous from God giving him prosperity, let him suffer then we'll see if he is truly righteous, so God agrees and lets Satan make Job suffer (rebuked by his wife, curse God and die) - learn lots about satan in prologue, he not among sons of God, could not act without divine permission, he finally loses this debate with God, since Job does not curse God, although he curses the day of his birth, and Satan is not fully disclosed in OT - Satans accusations appear: Jobs righteousness is self-serving, Job shows his trust in God, and even after the loss of nearly everything, Job still clings to his Faith. Then Jobs friends arrive who try and provide wisdom and council. Names are Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. They sit with Job for an entire week without saying a word (since speaking could lead to slandering) Job's Lament, ch. 3 & Dialogue, chs. 4-27: - Jobs lament appears in chapter 3, followed by dialogue b/w Job and friends . Job offers Eliphaz's first disclosure (Eliphaz also from Edom) and states that Job's misery is due to some great sin. Jobs reply is aimed at Eliphaz, declaring innocence, rebukes Eliphaz, and thinks God will be too late in coming to his aid - Bildad's first divorce (also from Edom) emphasizes cause and effect. Jobs suffers cause he has sinned and realizes that he would lose a debate with God. Reasserts innocence and concludes that God destroys the blameless and the wicked alike (he also realizes gap b/w God and man) - Zophar's first discourse, says Job is really getting off easy and prescription for Job is simply to devote his heart entirely to God and lay aside his sin. Job replies with sarcasm towards friends and a challenge to God - next 17 chapters contain second and third round of dialogues /w Job and his 3 friends, Job 19:25-27 most familiar passage. Unfortunately, very poor preserved hebrew text, so 4 major positions: 1. The Traditional Position: Job referring to resurrection of the body on last day. At this time, Job expects to see God and to be declared righteous by the Messiah Jesus Christ 2. The Critical Position: Most modern critics say writers sees vindication coming after death and outside of the body 3. This World Vindication: Job expects God to intervene before his death and restore him to his former prosperity, something which does happen 4. Samuel Terrien: the "redeemer" (go'el) is a third person who will vindicate Job after Jobs death. Job will see God from his flesh (overall argument is that he is innocent and implicates that his suffering is not divine justice, concludes either God doesn't run the world according to justice or God is unjust, but friends say God is just and it must be Jobs fault) Poem on Wisdom, ch. 28: - in 21, Job eloquently refutes the basic premise of his 3 friends, after this a poem follows that is an interlude stating human inability to know wisdom apart from God. Implication is that Job's friends have run out of arguments against Job, largely because they're bringing purely human wisdom that if you sin, you will suffer - Jobs final defense begins in ch 26 and concludes in 31 where Job offers a "negative confession" in which specified sins are denied, while asking God to punish him if he is lying. Elihu's speeches, chs. 32-37 - Next section contains Elihu's speeches of a young man who thinks he has answers (inflicts suffering to possibly stop future sin), but they still adopt retribution theology and use some of the same arguments of the others: God is majestic, beyond human criticism, and Job stands no chance of winning his case against almighty God. God then speaks and doesn't even mention the monologue of Elisha (insignificant, ignored by Job as well). Brief speech by Job, b/w God's 2 speeches, prepares us for his total repentance. Job's friends have vilified him, his wife had suggested that he curse God and die, and now Elihu has claimed superior insight which he did not have God's speeches, chs. 38-42 - in Gods first discourse, God comes to Job in a storm, an indication that he is coming in judgement asking "who are you to be questioning My judgement?" then follows God asking many question that Job is unable to answer (questions about inanimate nature to which Job must plead ignorance then another set of rhetorical questions about animate nature and Job is rendered speechless) Conclusion is God is wise and what is true of natural order is also true of moral order - God is in control (He is free to choose act as He chooses, doesn't need to answer all our questions) - second discourse contains theme of book: self-righteousness leads man to condemn God ("Would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself?") - 2 puzzling passages mention the Behemoth (beast) which is likely a Brachiosaurus and a leviathan, which some think is a crocodile or a whale (appear as monstrosity of evil in Satan and his minions) (illustrates not really evil, Gods proud of them, but they are not safe, so it compares to the world being very good but not perfect) - Job genuinely repents for his sin of pride Epilogue, 42:7-17 - 3 friends are shown to be wrong and God doubles Jobs earlier holdings. - God never does answer Job's question about why this has happened to him. God only invites Job to trust in Him - In new testament, only Jesus suffers without sinning

The use of Esther in Judaism today

Purim, festival of Esther, popular among Jews, 13th of Adar (March 7) festival is observed, book of Ether read in synagogue, when Haman name read, congress yells "Let his name be blotted out" and next morning, congress assembles again in synagogue for remaining formal religious exercises, rest of the day is for celebration (14th of Adar: mirth and rejoicing) Festival is celebrated differently in various parts of the world, like in Tel Aviv: carnival includes floats picturing jewish past and present Some places have the drink Adloyada ("until he doesn't know")

The Central Issues of Job

Purpose: is to probe the justice of God on personal level (theodicy) Two Poles of Theodicy: - The justice of God - The integrity of the righteous Related issues - patience of Job - The mystery of evil - The prosperity of the wicked - The suffering of the righteous - The problem of a transcendent God - The meaning of life - Is God served for His own sake or for a price?

Esther Key word

Queen of Persia

The canonicity of the book of Proverbs...

Questioned, but resolved in its favor

Compilation - Psalm

Some early collections (Psalms 73-83 by Asaph; Psalms 120-134 as songs of ascents) Final editing of 150 psalms into 5 books, perhaps by Ezra (each book concludes with Doxology) Book I: Praise be to the Lord, everlasting to everlasting Book II: Praise be to the Lord God, who alone does marvelous deeds, may the whole earth be filled with his glory Book III: Praise be to the Lord forever Book IV: Praise be to the Lord, from everlasting to everlasting Book V: Praise praise praise praise praise

Occasion for Writing Psalm

Some give occasion when they were composed but most psalms do not have them, this lack of histocial occasion when psalm was writte facilitates broad usage of psalms in worship in Judaism and in Christian worship

Date, Place, and Theme of Malachi

Temple as been restored, priest wary of rituals, 450 BC Jerusalem Gods unconditional love

Date of Ecclesiastes

Tenth century If Solomonic, then written in tenth century B.C. - The language of Ecclesiastes is similar to Mishnaic Hebrew (first century A.D. and later), then post-exilic (after 538 B.C.), but the language was updated after being written.

Outline of the Story of Ezra

The First Return of the Exiles, 538 B.C. The Restoration of the Worship of God, 536-516 B.C., - talks about 60 year old story of rebuilding and rededication of the Temple at the time of the ministries of Haggai and Zechariah The Second Return under Ezra, 458 B.C. - Ezra comes to Jerusalem and initiates certain religious reforms, particularly the ending of mixed marriages

Liturgical use in worship - Psalm

The More Obvious - Psalmody - Hallelujah (means praise the lord) - Hymns based on Psalms - Pre-service prayer The Propers - Introit - Gradual - The Verse Both Matins and Vespers orders of worship use psalm verses frequently Other miscellaneous uses

Outline of the story of Nehemiah

The Reconstruction of the City Walls, 445-444 B.C. - 3rd return, first 2 in 538, under Erza in 458. He was a cupbringer to king of Persia, and received permission from King Artaxerxes I to return to homeland and rebuild walls of Jerusalem with contribution of kings treasury to do so. He's successful in getting walls around Jerusalem rebuilt in just 52 days in spite of opposition from surrounding nations The Reforms of Ezra and Nehemiah - recount Nehemiah's second term as governor of Judea, starting in 433 B.C. Ezra priest who leads Israel's reformation whereas Nehemiah is a layman. When Ezra reads the Law of Moses, people realize how far they have strayed from Lord and confess their sins, populate the city of Jerusalem by casing lots of determine who must relocate there, and dedicate the city walls. Last chapter, tithe is reestablished, mixed marriages are rejected and the priestly office is purified

Overview of Daniel

The Stories, chs. 1-6 - Daniel and His Friends (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego), ch. 1 Committed to diet, commitment to God - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream, ch. 2 wise men summoned to tell the king the dream and interpret it, fail and death sentence. Only Daniel has faith that God can reveal both the dream and its interpretation, does so correctly, large statue made of different metals, each representing a kingdom of the world (broken into pieces at the end) - The Three Men in the Fiery Furnace, ch. 3 (historical viewpoint = code for jewish resistance to Antiochus Epiphanes IV, which he commanded Jews to worship at the altar of Zeus or die and many refused)(traditional view = read as is, 3 young men have no guarantee that they will live, but they still refuse to worship an idol) - Nebuchadnezzar's Madness, ch. 4 has another dream and once again wise men of Persia cant interpret it, so calls for Daniel, tell him the dream about an enormous tree. Says king is tree, but because of his pride will take on habits of wild animal. Then king comes to his senses and acknowledge God as the Most High - Belshazzar's Feast, ch. 5 fingers of a human hand appear and write on wall in kings presence basically saying Belshazzars kingdom has come to an end (because of sins, kingdom will be divided), offers Daniel only the 3rd position in his kingdom - Daniel in the Lion's Den, ch. 6 in order to bring Daniel down, some advisors to the king convince the king to issue decree that people may bow down only to the king, Daniel unwilling to obey this decree so marked for death. Knows of plot but continues to pray 3 times a day, king sees himself as a deity, so decree is unaltered The Visions, chs. 7-12 - The Vision of the Four Beasts, ch. 7 parallels the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter 2, covering same territory. 4 heads are 4 generals among Greek empire is divided after death of Alexander the Great A Final Judgment Scene, 7:9-14 (son of man appearing) - The court is seated, written evidence produced, and judgment about to begin - 13-14: the Messianic kingdom (his eternal dominion contrasts with the 4 kingdoms of limited duration) (This one like a son of man is divided individual, and we know the title to be Messianic) - V. 13, clouds as God's presence and the fire is likewise an indication of Gods presence - V. 14, "He was given authority ... an everlasting dominion" (interpretation given by angel Gabriel) - The Ram and the He-Goat, ch. 8 begins when Hebrew resumes and the Aramaic ends. Chapter is a narrow focus after the broad canvas of ch. 7, with a focus on the 2nd and especially 3rd beast. Cyrus breaks free from his allegiance to the Medes and established the joint stat of Medes and Persians. Ram is Medo-Persia, goring every beast that withstood him. The He-goat is Greece under Alexander the Great and upon his death, kingdom is divided among 4 generals and breaking of horns typifies the brittle nature of political power. Little horn is Antiochus Epiphanes and the beautiful land is Israel. By reaching for the stars, little horn claims equality with God - The Seventy Weeks, ch. 9 most difficult passage, 70 weeks or 70 7's (meaning indeterminate sevenness) Overall message is God shapes the course of history for the establishment of the Messianic Kingdom. - A Vision of the Last Days, chs. 10-12 prediction of conflict that will occur b/w Ptolemies of Egypt and Seleucids of Syria, 2 kingdoms on the southern and northern borders of Israel. King of south refers to Ptolemaic Kingdom and North is Seleucid kingdoms. Contemptible person is Antiochus epiphanes IV, who serves as future tribulations for the church. Ships are Roman ships, coming from Cyprus to help Egyptians against Antiochus Epiphanes. Then read of Antiochus desecration of the temple. The abomination that causes desolation refers to pagan altar of Zeus that Antiochus sets up in Jerusalem temple. Little help refers to Maccabee, because of whom Antiochus will be unable to complete the subjugation of the Jews and the Hellenization of their culture and religion. Time of the end indicates time of the vision is shifting to the future. Final chapter contains promise of resurrection, encouragement for Christian witness, and the limitation that will be placed on the power of evil

The origins of Psalmody in Israel

The ultimate origin: the Exodus The psalms are human responses to God's self-revelation and God's activity in history Two Early "Song Books" - The Book of the Wars of the Lord - The Book of Jashar David's hymn of praise Hannah Jonah

Esther Fact or Fiction?

Theodor Gaster thinks it didn't really happen - Purim provides one of the clearest of all examples of the transmutation of an earlier, non-Jewish festival. Piece of romantic fiction and cannot possibly represent historical fact. None of the Persian kings called Xerxes had a wife named Esther and none had a vizier named Haman. King only allowed to marry into one of the seven leading families of the realm Alberto Soggin agrees with Gaster William H. Shea thinks otherwise, since many of the historical events coincide with what we know happened in bible

Use of Psalms in NT

There are 93 quotations of more than 60 psalms There are more quotations from the Psalms than any other Old Testament book

What conviction do Historical-Critical scholars have baout the book of Daniel?

There is no such thing as predictive prophecy

True or False: Mordecai was Esther's advisor as well as the one who raised her

True

True or False: The book of Daniel encourages us to believe that God controls the kingdoms of the world.

True

True or False: The book of Proverbs fits into the category of lower wisdom or practical wisdom.

True

Proverbs Key Word

Wisdom

Psalm key word

Worship

Misuse of Typology in Esther

Xerxes = Deloss Dodds Vashti = Disch-Falk Field Esther = The renovated field Haman = Forces against renovation Mordecai = Augie Garrido

Introduction to Wisdom Literature

in poetry that addresses topics as the world around us, the meaning of life, the question of undeserved suffering, how to succeed in life, and other related matters

Authorship of Joel

known as prophet of Pentecost since Peter quotes Joel on Pentecost (also least known prophet) Is son of Pethuel Probably from Judah, or maybe in Jerusalem

Introduction to Poetic Literature

one author say about 1/3 of Old literature is poetry, other say 1/2 , roughly 40% King James Version didn't distinguish b/w prose and poetry in typesetting of the text, all looked same, not arranged in verse form Revised Standard Version was first english translation to cast all poetic sections of OT into verse form Now poetry is distinguished by indentation of every other line Poetic sections of OT are books of Job, Psalma, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon (and many other books contain poetry)

Historical Background of Apocalyptic Literature

rose out of renewed Jewish nationalism, beginning with Maccabean revolt in 2nd century, time of intense persecution and crisis (which began in the town of Modein). Times of persecution and crisis D.S. Russell, "It is essentially a literature of the oppressed who saw no hope for the nation simply in terms of politics or on the plane of human history." Arose in Palestine and spread to the Diaspora Book of Daniel provides prototype for apocalyptic literature, illustrates for us the difference b/w prophetic and apocalyptic literature when we see the purpose for each type of literature

Definition of Wisdom

we need wisdom but few people have it In OT, wisdom guides our daily lives with clarity and purpose. The meanings: - The ability to understand and cope with life based on our relationship with God - The art of being successful - Good common sense - "the very practical art of being prudent, sensible, and skillfully insightful so that we might prosper and have good success in life" - "practical knowledge of laws of life and of the world, based on experience" - "the quest of self-understanding in terms of relationships with things, people, and the Creator"

Wisdom in Israel

those with wisdom included those with technical skills. kings and leaders, and scribes (officials of kings court) (were probably also associated with wise men and sometimes were the wise men) Those who needed wisdom were all people, but especially for young- upper class- yout, the potential leaders Solomon known as wisest man who ever lived

Purpose of Wisdom Literature

to help people determine how to best live their lives - give practical advice on how to attain the good and successful life - probe the meaning of life

The Intertestamental Period - The Maccabean Revolt

- Hasideans: are jews who are loyal to faith and who do not adopt Greek culture and religion. - Mattathias was a priest from the village Modein, leader of the Hasidean revolt, promised wealth and prestige if he will join in the state-sponsored religious observances. Instead, he starts revolt when he kills the official and the Jew who participates in a pagan sacrifice. He then flees to the hills with his 5 sons, Judas, Johnathan, Simon, John, and Eleazar and other faithful jews. He and his sons construct Guerrilla warfare against Seleucids and against Hellenized Jews, destroying pagan altars and forcibly circumcising children on their raids. They will fight on Sabbath if necessary rather than be massacred as Jews have been Mattathias is succeeded upon his death by his son Judas Maccabeus. Judas becomes the commander of the rebels and his supporters and him cleanse the temple. They lock the Seleucid garrison in the Acra, take all traces of paganism out of the Temple, capture Jerusalem and rededicate the Temple to now commemorate the 8 day feast of Hanukkah Jonathan, brother of Judas, continues the Maccabean influence when he becomes high priest, general, and governor of Judea after Judas' death. However during the leadership of Judas and Jonathan, the struggle continues against great odds. FInally Jonathan negotiates a settlement with the Seleucid military leader and is designated governor of the province

Esther Introduction

- People captivated by its drama, tension, irony, and positive resolution. - Maimonides (1135-1204), famous rabbi in middle ages, thought highly of this book - "Maimonides asserted that when the rest of the Bible passed away in the days of the Messiah, Esther and the Torah would remain." - It is the only book outside the Pentateuch to have two Targums (Aramaic paraphrases) devoted to it. - No mention of Yahweh or God, lots of "coincidences" - No mention of Jerusalem, the temple, law, or covenant. - No prayers, miracles, or apocalyptic visions. - Esther shows no concern for dietary laws, conceals her Jewish identify, pleases the king with a one-night stand, and extends a massacre. And her cousin Mordecai's refusal to respect Haman causes the problem. - An absence of piety

Introduction to Apocalyptic Literature

- Postmillennialism: belief that world will gradually improve, ending with the return of Christ at the end of a literal thousand years, but we will not know the starting period for the 1000 years until they end. (based on literal reading of apocalyptic literature, even though some symbolism exists) - Premillennialism: belief that the world will end after 7 year period of Tribulation, with a rapture (taking all Christians to heaven) occurring before the beginning of the Tribulation. Then, at end of Tribulation, Christ will return win climatic battle and then rule on earth for a literal thousand years - Amillennialism: holds that the 1000 years are a figurative expression referring to the entire NT era, the complete span of time b/w the 1st and 2nd coming of Christ (most widely held view in Christendom) - Apocalypticism: emphasizes type of literature in which certain parts of the bible were written, notably the books of Daniel and Revelation. Near synonym to amillennialism - Dispensationalism: Premillennial position which holds to all the tenets of premillennialism but also divides history into 7, or dispensations, within which a certain principle, such as grace or law, is especially operative and by which God relates to human beings Millennialistic views growing for apocalyptic section Ray Frank Robbins, opening statement demonstrates that there is much diversity of viewpoints in Christendom on the end times, sometimes even within the lifetime of a single individual. (later parts of Daniel as apocalyptic literature, full of symbolism rather than literary true events)

Esther in Dispensational Theology

- The identity of Haman as an Agagite (ancestor of Canaanite) links the Jews to the Sinaitic covenant. - Agag, king of the Amalekites, were the first people to attack the new nation Israel. - Exod. 17:8-16, God will erase the Amalekites. - Deut. 25:17-19, God commands Israel to wage war against the Amalekites. - 1 Sam. 15:1-3, God tells Saul to totally destroy the Amalekites, but Saul spares the life of Agag. - The Jews of Persia obey where Saul disobeyed. - This is a holy war, hence the extra day of battle, but they may not profit from the act in any way (so no plunder). (Coming of Jesus Christ puts an end to the practice of holy war between nations) - The edict (of Haman) to destroy the Jews goes out on the thirteenth of Nisan (Esther 3:12), the eve of Passover (the fourteenth of Nisan). - No enemy can thwart God's purpose, even though God's people have no king, no army, no prophet, no land, no temple, no priesthood, and no sacrifices. - Joseph, Daniel, and Esther are all Jews in exile, "strategically placed in foreign courts of worldly power." - The reading of Esther at Purim commemorates Jewish identity and inviolability, especially against anti-Semitism. - It shows how to live as a religious minority in a dominant society where oppression is a reality. - It describes the Jewish nation in Diaspora. - Divine Providence, Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility, The Necessity of Biblical Revelation - Peripety (the sudden turn of events) as the Structure of Redemption: "God is omnipotently present even where God is most conspicuously absent." - The Eschatological Hope of the Esther Story

Introductions to the Writings

3rd section of OT - greek for hagiographa or holy writings "The Writings" is a nondescript name for books that fit neither the Torah nor the Prophets last 2 books in writings are 1st and 2nd Chronicles, relefted in words of Jesus when he talks about martyrdom that had accompanied saints of God from Genesis to Chronicles 13 books included because of late date, because of content, or liturgical influences Following dates are those days in Hebrew calendar when these 5 scrolls are read: - Song of Solomon: 8th day of passover - Ruth: 2nd day of Festivals of Weeks (7 weeks after Passover) or Pentecost - Lamentations: 9th of Ab (commemorating the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the 1st and 2nd Temples) - Ecclesiastes: 3rd day of Festival of Booths, or Tabernacles - Esther: the Festival of Purim (Esther and Mordecai's triumph over Haman)

True or False: The individual who wrote more psalms than anyone else was Solomon

False, he wrote the most Proverbs David wrote most Psalms

True or False: According to the textbook, the book of Job contains references to some mythological creatures, namely behemoth and leviathan.

False, not mythological creatures

True or False: The prophet Joel has been described as "the prophet of the decline and fall of the Hebrew monarchy."

False, was prophet of Pentecost since Peter quotes Joel on Pentecost (also least known prophet)

The Intertestamental Period - The Hasmonean Priest-Kings

Hasmonean = descendants of Simon, last surviving son of Mattathias. Simon given the title Great High Priest and Commander and Leader of the Jews by Demetrius II. He is succeeded by John Hyrcanus son of Simon and also a Hasmonean There are problems with the Hasmoneans, first they are not Davidic dynasty and second, they're not Aaronic priesthood. Hasideans have difficulty justifying the leadership of the Hasmoneans. During reign of John Hyrcanus, certain Jewish factions emerge, particularly the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Pharisees, descendants of the Hasideans, emphasize the study, exposition, application, and development of the Torah. They are priests but laymen numbering about 6000. They consider political activity to be unimportant and they are political and religious conservatives. The Sadducees oppose further development of the Torah and the adaptation of it to the times. They consider largely of priests and nobles and this are far fewer in number that the Pharisees. They find Favor with Hyrcanus because of their willingness to compromise for maintaining their position Aristobulus II (second last Hasmonean) is imprisoned by Pompey when Pompey conquered Jerusalem in 63 BC. Jews require assistance, but his coming proves to be more than they bargained for. Judea now becomes part of the roman province of Syrian under Roman governor in Syria, and it remains so into the NT era

Examples of Apocalyptic Literature

Lots of examples of apocalyptic writing, all found in the Pseudepigrapha, help us to understand definition The Book of Enoch - most important of the nonbiblical apocalyptic writings, contains versions of world history and history of Israel from time of Enoch to present day, looking forward to end of time. Second section are parables dealing with times of judgement on the world and giving assurance to the righteousness about the certainty of the messianic hope. 5th section, book has an apocalypse of weeks in which history is divided into 10 weeks, 7 belonging to the past and 3 yet to come The Book of Jubilees - history divided into jubilee periods of 49 years each, which in turn are subdivided into 7 weeks of years. History will eventually lead to Messianic kingdom, which will come as a result of gradual, spiritual development of mankind and a transformation of nature. During this time, forces of evil will be restrained, people will live to be 1000 The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs - last testament of the 12 sons of Jacob to their children in much the same way that their father Jacob gave his last testament to those same 12 sons Assumption of Moses - tells how Moses was taken to heaven, and the contents of the Martyrdom of Isaiah are revealed by the title, books known as 2 Enoch tells us of Enoch's vision of the 7 heavens Apocalypse of Abraham - alleges to tell stories of Abraham's youth and conversions, an attack on idolatry, the ascension of Abraham to heaven, and visions of the past and future, all of it deeply concerned with the problem of evil The Apocalypse of Ezra, or 2 Esdras contains 7 visions given to Erza in Babylonia, full of imagery and phraseology that appear in the NT, especially in book of revelations

Psalm Titles

Psalm titles (superscriptions) contain up to 5 elements: - Assignment (liturgical information) - Musical information - Authorship - Literary type - Occasion for writing like Mizmor = melody psalm

Proverbs Canonicity

The Council of Jamnia, a Jewish council, had concerns about keeping Proverbs in the Bible, since Prov. 26:4 & 5 seemed to have two seemingly contradictory proverbs. But later said not absolute but rather generalities (true in some cases but not all)

Introduction to Daniel

The Traditional View (your instructor's view): Daniel was written by the statesman Daniel during the Babylonian Exile. (To comfort those in the fiery furnace of Babylonian exile assuring them that present sufferings and deliverances are only the beginning of many similar events leading to the end of time.) The Historical-Critical View: Daniel was written during the second century B.C. by an unnamed author in response to the evil deeds of Antiochus Epiphanes IV. (comfort those in the "fiery furnace" of the evil deeds of Antiochus Epiphanes IV.)

True or False: According to Job and the New Testament, only one person was ever truly innocent of any and all wrongdoing.

True, Jesus

Where is Wisdom Literature in Bible

everywhere in bible, make us wise unto salvation wisdom literature referring to books of Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes. Psalms contains wisdom psalms, while both song of songs and Psalm contain themes that fit on periphery of wisdom literature