Old Testament Survey

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The Taylor Prism

"As for Hezekiah, the Judean, he did not submit to my yoke. I laid siege to 46 of his fortified cities, walled forts and to the countless small villages in their vicinity .... I led off 200,150 people, young and old, male and female, horse, mules, donkeys, camels, big and small cattle beyond counting, and counted them as booty." (Taylor Prism) This six-sided baked clay document (or prism) was discovered at the Assyrian capital Nineveh, in an area known today as Nebi Yunus. It was acquired by Colonel R. Taylor, British Consul General at Baghdad, in 1830 CE, after whom it is named. The prism is a foundation record, intended to preserve King Sennacherib's achievements for posterity and the gods. The record of his account of his third campaign (701 BCE) is particularly interesting to scholars. It involved the destruction of forty-six cities of the state of Judah and the deportation of 200,150 people. Hezekiah, king of Judah, is said to have sent tribute to Sennacherib. This event is described from another point of view in the Old Testament books of 2 Kings and Isaiah. For Sennacherib, we have three particularly impressive examples- the Taylor Prism in the British Museum, the Jerusalem Prism in the Israel Museum, and the Oriental Institute Prism in Chicago.

Periods of Israel's history

1405-1390 BC Conquest of Canaan (Joshua) 1309-1050 BS Settlement of the Tribes (Judges) 1050-1010 BC Kingship of Saul (1 Samuel) 1010-970 Kingship of David (2 Samuel) 970-931 BC Kingship of Solomon (1 Kings 1-11) 931-586 BC Kings of Israel and Judah (Kings and Chronicles) 605-535 BC Babylonian Captivity (Kings and Chronicles) 486-464 BC Dispersion of the Jews (Esther) 458-430 BC Return from Exile (Ezra and Nehemiah)

A Notebook Bible

A Bible you make notes in.

Bullae

A bulla is a small lump of clay impressed with a seal that served as a kind of signature. Bullae were attached to ancient documents to secure them and to identify the sender. The backs of bullae often bear the impress of the papyrus on which the documents were written and the string with which the documents were tied. Some of these Bullae bear the inscriptions of Jeroboam II, Hoshea, and Azariah, all kings of Israel or Judah.

Bible Interpretation Methods

Allegorical Rationalistic Traditional Subjective Historical/grammatical

Amos' five visions

Amos received these visions while at the temple in Bethel. During this narrative there is a confrontation between the Priest of Bethel and Amos, which reflects the corruption infesting Israel's leadership. The first two visions were of two natural disasters: a locust plague and a fire which swept through the land. . The locusts would consume all the vegetation and the fire would consume all of the food and water. In the third vision, Amos saw the Lord measuring a wall with a plumb line (a cord with a weight attached to the bottom to determine vertical lines) measuring the straightness of the wall. The points was that Israel did not measure up to God's standards of righteousness and had become unstable. The fourth vision involved a basket of summer fruit, emphasizing the ripeness of Israel for judgment. In his fifth vision, Amos saw Yahweh standing and ordering the destruction of Israel's idolatrous sanctuary at Bethel.

900-586 BC Iron Age 2

Assyrian monarch Sennacherib of Assyria invades Judah; Destroys city of Lachish and threatens Jerusalem (701 BC); Babylonian monarch Nebuchadnezzar captures Jerusalem; Destroy first temple and exiles population (605-586 BC)

Bava Batra (Baba Batra)

Bava Batra (also Baba Batra; Talmudic Aramaic: בבא בתרא "The Last Gate") is the third of the three tractates in the Talmud in the order Nezikin; it deals with a person's responsibilities and rights as the owner of property.[1] It is part of Judaism's oral law. Originally it, together with Bava Kamma and Bava Metzia, formed a single tractate called Nezikin (torts or injuries).

Obed

Book Found: Ruth Setting: Bethlehem Relations: Boaz, Ruth, Naomi Son of Ruth and Boaz.

United Kingdom (of Israel) Kings List

Saul Ish-Bosheth (or Eshbaal) David Solomon Rehoboam Approximately lasted 1050-911 BC.

House of Saul

Saul: 1050-1010 BC. (40 Years) Ish-Bosheth: 1010-1011 BC. (2 Years) *Thiele dates

Greek Septuagint

Septuagint, abbreviation LXX, the earliest extant Greek translation of the Old Testament from the original Hebrew. The Septuagint was presumably made for the Jewish community in Egypt when Greek was the common language throughout the region. Analysis of the language has established that the Torah, or Pentateuch (the first five books of the Old Testament), was translated near the middle of the 3rd century bce and that the rest of the Old Testament was translated in the 2nd century bce.

History Genre

Stories and epics from the Bible are included in this genre. Almost every book in the Bible contains some history, but Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Joshua, Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Acts are predominately history. Knowledge of secular history is crucial, as it dovetails perfectly with biblical history and makes interpretation much more robust.

Parallelism Types

Synonymous parallelism Antithetic parallelism Synthetic Parallelism Introverted parallelism Emblematic Parallelism Staircase Parallelism Pivot Parallelism External-Internal Parallelism

Textual Criticism

Textual Criticism is the science that enables scholars to determine and establish the wording of the original text. The number of textual variants due to handwritten mistakes that affect the meaning of the text are relatively few, and none of these variants change any major OT teaching of Christian doctrine. Rather than undermining a person's confidence in the Scriptures, the textual criticism and transmission history of the Bible enables everyone to see how accurately the Bible today reflects what God originally communicated to His people in His Word. By contrast, no other documents from the ancient world were as accurately copied, preserved, and transmitted as the Old Testament Scriptures.

Annals of Thutmosis III

The Annals of Thutmose III are composed of numerous inscriptions of ancient Egyptian military records gathered from the 18th dynasty campaigns of Thutmose III's armies in Syro-Palestine, from regnal years 22 (1458 BCE) to 42 (1438 BCE).[1] These recordings can be found on the inside walls of the chamber housing the "holy of holies" at the great Karnak Temple of Amun. Measuring just 25 meters in length and 12 meters wide, the space containing these inscriptions presents the largest and most detailed accounts concerning military exploits of all Egyptian Kings.[2] These annals contain loaned terms from the Egyptians which the Jews made used of. In particular is the reference to Canaan as a "land flowing with milk and honey".

Cyrus Cylinder

The Cyrus Cylinder is one of the most famous objects to have survived from the ancient world. It was inscribed in Babylonian cuneiform on the orders of Persian King Cyrus the Great (559-530 BC) after he captured Babylon in 539 BC. The cylinder is often referred to as the first bill of human rights as it appears to encourage freedom of worship throughout the Persian Empire and to allow deported people to return to their homelands. It was found in Babylon in modern Iraq in 1879 during a British Museum excavation. https://www.ancient.eu/video/678/a-new-beginning-for-the-middle-east-the-cyrus-cyli/

What is the main subject of the bible?

The bible itself is one big story that God is telling specifically about Himself. It is about His plan to rescue, restore and redeem his world.

Epic of Gilgamesh

The oldest epic tale in the world was written 1500 years before Homer wrote the Illiad. "The Epic of Gilgamesh" tells of the Sumerian Gilgamesh, the hero king of Uruk, and his adventures. This epic story was discovered in the ruins of the library of Ashurbanipal in Nineveh by Hormuzd Rassam in 1853. Written in cuneiform on 12 clay tablets, this Akkadian version dates from around 1300 to 1000 B.C. According to the tale, Gilgamesh is a handsome, athletic young king of Uruk city. His mother was the goddess Ninsun and his father the priest-king Lugalbanda, making Gilgamesh semi-divine. Gilgamesh is rambunctious and energetic, but also cruel and arrogant. He challenges all other young men to physical contests and combat. He also proclaims his right to have sexual intercourse with all new brides. Gilgamesh's behavior upsets Uruk's citizens and they cry out to the great god of heaven Anu for help with their young king. The Sumerian Epic share some parallels regarding the flood accounts. In the ancient poem, "Noah", named Utnapishtim, sent out a dove, a swallow, and finally a raven. When the raven did not return, he left the boat and offered a sacrifice to the gods.

Who wrote the Bible and how?

The simple answer given is that God wrote the bible. However, the long answer is that it was given by divine inspiration. (2 Peter 1:20-21) (20) knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. (21) For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. The words written were at the lead and direction of the Holy Spirit. However, God did not override the authors human capacity, rather the personalities of the authors were "carried along" by the Holy Spirit. This resulted in the words of God composed into the Bible. The Inspiration is not an "aha" moment, or the result of personal observation.

Imprecatory Psalms

These are prayers containing elements of extreme emotion and anger calling on God to bring severe judgment on the enemies of God and the psalmist. These are found in Psalms 35; 55; 58; 59; 69; 79; 109; and 137. In 58 David prays for his enemies to vanish like skillborn children who never see the light of day.

Law Genre

This genre includes the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy. The purpose of law is to express God's sovereign will concerning government, priestly duties, social responsibilities, etc. Knowledge of Hebrew manners and customs of the time, as well as a knowledge of the covenants, will complement a reading of this material.

Wisdom Genre

This is the genre of aphorisms that teach the meaning of life and how to live. Some of the language used in wisdom literature is metaphorical and poetic, and this should be taken into account during analysis. Included are the books of Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes.

Traditional Interpretation

This view emphasizes how the church as interpreted a message, this can be seen particularly in the Roman Catholic church.

Rationalistic Interpretation

This view is that the Bible can only be understood by human reason and the scientific method, followed in many liberal churches.

Historical/Grammatical

This views the Bible as normal literature, taking into account figures of speech, history and various genres.

Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words

This will help the student by providing a definition and explanation of major Biblical words.

How to evaluate the bible

To understand the story in the bible we are reading, we need to understand the context. First: Begin by determining where the story fits in the grand scheme of the bible. Second: Determine where the story fits in the bible theologically. Third: Determine where the story fits in the landscape of the bible through its historical context as well as how God worked directly with Israel. Fourth: Ask how the principles in the story can be appropriately applied to you.

Enthronement Psalms (kingship)

While royal psalms focus on the Davidic king, the theme of Enthronement (kingship) songs is the Lord's kingdom rule over His creation. They often include the expression "the Lord reigns!" (or God reigns). Psalms 93:3-5; Pss 47:1-3; 96:4-10; 13; 97:2 are examples of these types of hymns.

Darius the Mede

Book: Daniel Role: Provincial Ruler Rule: 538-536 BC Setting: Persian Empire Prophet: Daniel Likely a provincial ruler, or Satrap, he is the Persian ruler who threw Daniel into the lion's den after promoting him to a prominent position. This was after the prophet refused to obey a law regulating prayer. This figures identity is actually shrouded in mystery as there have been several speculations made about his identity.

Xerxes (Ahasuerus)

Book: Esther Role: King of Persia, husband of Esther Rule: 485-465 BC Writings: Harem Inscription, Setting: Susa, Persian Empire Events: The Persian Wars, post Jewish return and reconstruction of the Temple in Jerusalem Relatives: Darius I (father), Esther (Wife) Key Figures: Haman, Modecai, Vashti (ex wife) The name Xerxes does not appear in the Hebrew text of Scripture. The names that is listed is possibly Ahasuerus. However, the Septuagint translation gives the name Artaxerxes. This poses an amusing conundrum as there are two Persian rulers with that name. Most scholars aquatint Ahasuerus to Xerxes I the son of Darius I. He is featured in the book of Esther. His role is the figure of power with the capability of giving into Esther's request to save the Jews from his advisor, Haman's nefarious plot.

Darius I the Great

Book: Ezra Role: King Rule: 521-486 BC Setting: Persian Empire Prophet: Zechariah, Haggai Events: Greco-Persian Wars, Relatives: Hystaspes (father) Darius I was an effective military leader and benevolent ruler over the Persian Empire. His role in the bible is in his support of the reconstruction efforts of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. In fact he warned his administrators to not interfere with the process or they would face consequences.

Sacrifices

Burnt Offering Grain or Meal or Tribute offering Fellowship or Peace offering (includes Thanks Offering, Vow Offering, Freewill Offering) Sin Offering Guilt Offering

Gutenberg Bible

Date: 1454 or 1455 Author: Jerome (Johann Gutenberg was the printer) Language: Latin Source: Latin Vulgate Audience: Latin Speaking Christian The very first book to be printed on the Gutenberg printing press was the Latin Vulgate which is now commonly referred to as the Gutenberg Bible. The book was printed into three volumes, each with about 1,282 pages 17 X 12 inches. Johann Gutenberg was not the author of this bible, but he created what is likely one of the most important inventions in history: the printing press.

William Tyndale Bible

Date: 1525 Author: William Tyndale Language: Greek to English Source: Septuagint Audience: English speakers William Tyndale was a Protestant reformer and scholar who was influenced by reformers such as Martin Luther and Erasmus. When he faced the opposition of the Catholic Church he declared, "I defy the Pope, and all his laws; and if God spares my life, I will cause the boy that drives the plow to know more of the Scriptures than the Pope himself!" His translations were condemned by both the Catholic Church and the king of England (Henry VIII). Eventually he was burnt at the stake. Tyndale's translation was the first based off of the Greek Septuagint and Hebrew texts. It was also the first English edition to be mass produced. However, it only covered the New Testament.

Revised King James Bible

Date: 1881 Source: Greek New Testament This revised version of the King James bible used the earliest manuscripts of the Greek New Testament

Monarchy: Kings of Israel and Judah

For a while, there was doubt that Jerusalem had ever existed. However, excavations at the Khirbet Quiyafa (biblical Neta'im) on the outskirts of Judah, near the Elah Valley, revealed fortifications. A culture was further discovered when an archive was unearthed. Further corroborating structures were discovered for the City of David. The Fortress of Zion, a four room Israelite house of Ahiel, and Warren's Shaft, a Canaanite structure possibly related to David's conquest were all discovered. Findings at the Philistine city of Gath uncovered a ninth-century BC ostraca (inscribed potsherd) in Proto-Canaanite which gave etymological evidence. It had a name inscribed with the equivalent of Goliath. Actual evidence for king David was discovered on a victory stele unearthed at Tel Dan, a northern Israelite city from the ninth-eighth centuries BC located in the present-day Golan Heights. On the Stele is recorded the defeat of the Judean king Ahaziahu by the Israelite king Jehoram the son of Ahab. The defeated king is identified as being from "the house of David", which was commonly used to describe the Davidc dynasty. The fortified chariot cities of Solomon: Hazor, Megiddor and Gezer were also discovered. While no remains of the first temple have been found, related structures such as a Solomonic fortification like which includes a city gate and royal structure with a tower 18 feet high have been discovered on the southern side of the Temple Mount. When the monarch divided, the Israelite king Jeroboam built a rival place of worship to further legitimize the kingdom on the high place at Dan. Excavations at the site have revealed a structure 60 by 62 feet with a flight of five ashlar steps to a raised platform on which golden calves were once installed. The remains of a large horned altar for burnt offerings, and the cultic precincts where priests prepared offerings were also discovered. Further evidence for the divided monarchy is found throughout the surrounding regions, often referencing specific kings. These findings include the Moabite stone (846 BC), which names Misha the king of Syria and Omri the king of Israel. The Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III (841 BC) visually depicts Jehu as king of Israel. Bullae, or clay seals, were found with the names of biblical rulers: Jeroboam II, Hoshea, Azariah, Jotham and Ahaz, Manasseh, and Jehoahaz. Numerous seals and signet rings of Hezekiah, Manasseh and Jehoahaz were also found. One Bulla contained the name and fingerprint of Baruch, the secretary of Jeremiah. External evidence correlates the later rulers. Assyrian prisms attest to the attack of Sennacherib on Judah. These include the Taylor Prism, Numrud Prism, and the Oriental Institute Prism, which record the events and the name of Hezekiah. The Babylonian Chronicles, cuneiform tablets record Sennacherib's assassination and the ration list for King Jehoiachin who was taken to Babylon during the siege.

Zechariah's eight visions

Zechariah delivered the message of his eight visions on Feb 15, 519 BC. and which had an angelic interpretation for each. First: Zechariah saw four horsemen: one on a red horse among myrtle trees with three others behind him. The one on the crimson steed was an angel of the Lord, and the others were angelic messengers. After they patrolled the whole earth the couriers returned to the angel and reported that they found the whole world at peace. The angel asked the Lord how long it would be before God showed mercy to Jerusalem. He responded that He was stirred to jealousy for the city and He would soon pour out His wrath on the nations. While God had used other peoples to punish Judah, he would now punish them in return. Second: Next was a vision of four horns which represented the powerful nations who had destroyed Israel and Judah and taken them into exile. The number four likely refers to the points on a compass. Third:A man with a measuring rod surveyed Jerusalem in preparation for the rebuilding of its walls. Zechariah's angelic interpreter sent another angel to tell the man that his work was unnecessary because Jerusalem would be a city without walls. The Lord Himself would dwell among His people and be like a protective wall of fire for them. Fourth: This vision refers to the restoration of the high priest Joshua for service at the temple. The Lord replaced Joshua's filthy clothing with clean garments to symbolize that he had been purified for service. He would also send His servant, "the branch," to remove Israel's sin and bring prosperity to the people. This referenced Jeremiah's earlier prophecy concerning the Davidic "Branch". Fifth: Zechariah saw two olive trees and a lamp stand with seven lamps. the golden torch was a menorah and was one of the articles in the holy place at the tabernacle and temple. In this case, the seven beacons on the stand represent the presence of God at the rebuilt temple. From there He would exercise his sovereignty over the whole earth. The two olive trees provided oil to the lamps and seem to illustrate Joshua, the high priest, and Zerubbabel, the governor. Sixth: In this vision, Zechariah saw a flying scroll which measured 30 feet by 15 feet and was covered in writing. This parchment contained God's curse against those who had broken His commandments. Seventh: A woman in a measuring basket represented the wickedness in the land. Likely, a female figure was used due to the Hebrew word for wickedness (rish'ah) being feminine. It might also be associated with the goddesses Ishtar or Asherah. The angel sealed the woman in the basket with a lead cover to ensure she couldn't escape, then two winged creatures flew her away to Babylon. Wickedness belonged with false gods and not the Lord or his people. Eighth: The last vision resembles and resolves the opening vision of the four horsemen. In this vision, there are four horse-drawn chariots which represent the four winds that will go from the Lords presence to execute His judgments. These visions conclude with a symbolic act confirming the Lord's promise to bless Joshua and Zerubbabel as they led the rebuilding of the temple. Zechariah was then commanded to place a crown on the head of Joshua, reflecting how he would act in the role of a priest and ruler over his people. The previously mentioned branch refers to Zerubbabel as he represented of the house of David.

Books of the Old Testament (39 total)

Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1-2 Samuel 1-2 Kings 1-2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

Abrahamic Covenant

Genesis 12:1-3 "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" Based on this promise, God later changed Abram's name from Abram ("high father") to Abraham ("father of a multitude") in Genesis 17:5. As we've seen, the Abrahamic Covenant is unconditional. The Abrahamic Covenant included the promise of land, many descendants, and also included a promise of blessing and redemption.

Minor Prophets (books)

Hosea Amos Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

A Concordance (Bible study)

Identifies the number of times a particular word is used in the Bible, where, and what Greek or Hebrew words are related to it. Useful for those who have a limited understanding of the original Greek and Hebrew languages. This will enable you to learn the philosophy behind English words like "sound", where it was used, by who, and the potential meanings.

931-586 BC Kings of Israel and Judah

Kings, Chronicles and Samuel Kings and Chronicles run parallel to each other along with 1-2 Samuel. However, Chronicles includes items which were of particular interest to the priestly community with the focus being on the temple, its worship leaders, and religious services. It also covers the history of the world from a Jewish perspective and reveals the primacy of national worship. Most of the materials found in Kings regarding the northern kingdom is excluded. Instead it focuses on Judah, the house of David and the Temple of Jerusalem. The book of kings was also written from a priestly perspective, it focuses it's attention on both the southern and northern kings list.

Sin Offering

Male or female animal without blemish as follows: Bull for a high priest or congregation; male goat for a king, female goat or lamb for a common person; dove or pigeon for slightly poor, tenth of an ephah of flour for the very poor. A sin offering was a sacrifice, made according to the Mosaic Law, which provided atonement for sin. The Hebrew phrase for "sin offering" literally means "fault offering." The sin offering was made for sins committed in ignorance, or unintentional sins. The ritualistic method of the sin offering and the animal to be offered varied depending on the status of the sinner.

1550-1200 BC Late Bronze Age

Moses delivers Hebrews in Exodus (1446 BC); Joshua enters Canaan and begins conquest (1406 BC); Settlement of Hebrews in Canaan; Judges begin to rule

Gospel

Name Middle English to Old English = godspell Greek euangelion = good news.

Ezekiel

Name: "God has strengthened" Author: Ezekiel Date: 593-571 BC Setting: Tel Abib, Southern Mesopotamia near Nippur Reign of: Nebuchadnezzar Prophesied to: Jewish exiles in Babylon Concerning/Message: Sign Acts Theme: Key Word: Glory, watchman, Four Sign Acts Key Phrase: "Son of Man" Key Figures: Jehoiachin Ezekiel was taken into exile along with Jehoiachin and other leading citizens of Judah by the Babylonians in 597 BC. On his thirtieth birthday (July 593), he received his calling as a prophet. He came from a priestly family and many of his prophecies put emphasis on uncleanliness and defilement as well as an emphasis on rebuilding the temple. Key features of the book include mentioning Ezekiel's frailty as being a "son of man" ninety-three times as well as the prophets physical disability with speech and calling him a "watchman". Outline: 1. The Judgment of Judah and Jerusalem (1:1-24:27) This section narrates the details of Ezekiel's calling. He and those he ministered to needed to know that his message came from the Lord and therefore his impairments and human frailty are emphasized. Ezekiel saw the glory of the Lord in a vision involving cherubim (10:20), the Lord seated on His throne overlooking a crystal expanse and asserting His sovereignty over Babylon accompanied by flashes of lightning, flames and radiance. The prophet then fell on his face in awe and worship. Should Ezekiel not warn the people as a watchman does of impending attack then their blood would be on his hands. However, if they heard and did not believe, then their destruction was they own choice. Ezekiel's Four Sign Acts depicted the siege of Jerusalem to depict the fall of the city to the exiles. a. He raised siege works against a model of the city. b. The prophet lay on his side of 430 days to symbolize the accumulated sin of Israel and Judah. c. The Lord made him eat bread made of assorted grains cooked over dung to represent the famine like conditions the besieged city would suffer. d. Ezekiel shaved his head and beard, dividing the hair into thirds. One third was burned, another was cut up with a sword, and the last was scattered to the wind. A small portion was tucked into his belt to symbolize the small remnant of the people who would survive the fall of Jerusalem (4-5). In his second vision, the Lord departed the temple of Jerusalem for the peoples unfaithfulness. They worshiped idols and false gods though various means and God would not share his glory with false deities (8-11). Along with the symbolic acts, Ezekiel told three parables to portray the sinfulness of Judah and its coming judgment. The first compared Jerusalem to a barren charred vine while the second displayed the city as an unfaithful bride. The third dealt with Judah's political situation with a parable involving two eagles, a cedar tree and a vine (17:1-24). 2. The Judgment of the Nations (25:1-32:32) Ezekiel also had a series of oracles against the foreign nations which served as a warning against forming alliances with other nations as they would also suffer God's judgment. Ezekiel delivered a message against Tyre and Egypt. The city of Tyre would be reduced to a bare rock (27:35-36). Egypt, portrayed as a "monster" from the sea (a crocodile from the Nile) would be caught in the Lords net and cast on dry ground to be eaten by the birds (29:6-7, Isa 36:6) 3. The Future Restoration of Israel (33:1-48:35) The Lord would eventually bring about the restoration of the Promise Land despite Israel's unfaithfulness and disobedience. His presence would be enjoyed along with the blessings of the land forever once Israel was cleansed and spiritually and nationally rejuvenated. Ezekiel's vision of the dry bones signify a battlefield littered with dead soldiers who he would prophesy to. The Lord would then put flesh on the remains and breath life into them. This signified God's promise to restore the people of Israel like a resurrection from the grave (37:1-14). The sign act Ezekiel performed involved two sticks, one with the name of Judah and the other Joseph written on them. He then joined the sticks together to signify the reunification of the two kingdoms into one. 38-39 involves the end time invasion of Gog and Magog after Israel is secured in the land. The Lord himself would destroy these invaders. Ezekiel concludes with a vision of the Eschatological Temple where God would return to His temple to dwell among his people. The name of Jerusalem would become "the Lord is there" and the new Temple would measure at 500 on a side, three times larger than the temple during the time of Jesus. The land would be fed by a river which would bring fertility to the land and even bring the Dead Sea to life and fishermen would cast their nets there.

Jehoahaz

Name: "Yahweh has grasped" (Shallum) Book: 2 Kings 13:1-9 Role: King of Israel Rule: 608 BC (3 Months) Prophet: Jeremiah Relatives: Josiah (father), Hamutal (mother, daughter of Jeremiah), Jeremiah (grandfather) Key Figures: Necho (Pharaoh of Egypt) Third son of Josiah, he was placed on the throne by popular demand. His father, Josiah, had died in battle against Necho, the Pharaoh of Egypt. After three months, Necho called him to Riblah in Syria where he was deported to Egypt and replaced by his brother Jehoiakim. He never returned to Israel and died in Egypt.

Zedekiah

Name: "Yahweh is my righteousness" (Mattaniah) Book: 2 Kings 24:17-25:7 Role: Last king of Judah Rule: 597-586 BC Setting: Judah Prophet: Jeremiah, Daniel, Ezekiel Events: Rebelion against Babylon, Babylonian Exile. Relatives: Josiah (father) Key Figures: Nebuchadnezzar II The last king of Judah, Zedekiah was put into power by Nebuchadnezzar after Jehoiachin was removed at the age of twenty-one. The country was under foreign rule and was significantly reduced in power. Zedekiah didn't even bear the title of king as Jehoiachin was still alive, though in exile. Cities had been destroyed, Edom made frequent attempts to invade, and there was a general unrest in the nation. Zedekiah was in a tough position and he lacked the correct personality required to lead at the time. Described as a man who lacked self-confidence, he eventually folded to the demands of the princes to rebel against Jeremiah's advice. Zedekiah began a campaign of intrigue and entered into a tentative alliance with Moab, Edom, Ammon, Tyre and Sidon in his fourth year. Nebuchadnezzar got wind of this plot and in the ninth year of his vassals reign, the Babylonians lay siege to the city of Jerusalem in about 587 BC. During that time, Jeremiah urged the king to submit to Babylon , but other Jewish nobles accused him of desertion and imprisoned him. After suffering through two and a half years of sieges the city was breached and Zedekiah fled. He was soon captured, his sons killed before his eyes, and he was blinded and taken to Babylon where he died. Though officially beginning in 597 BC, Israel's exile is listed as starting at this point. Those who survived the siege and following destruction were carried off into exile.

Gideon

Name: "hewer, slasher, hacker" Jerubbaal Book Found: Judges 6-8 Judged: Midianites, Amalekites Relations: Joash (father) Key figures: Joash, Angel of the Lord The Israelites once again fell into worshiping false idols and the Midianites were permitted to punish them for seven years. The farmlands, crops and livestock were destroyed and they were compared to being "like a swarm of locusts" (Judges, 6:5). This explains why the angel of the Lord found Gideon in a wine press when he found him to commission him. Gideon needed some reassurances before he went to war with the Mideanites and asked for several signs from God. First, the angel set fire to the food provided before disappearing. After, Gideon destroyed the idols of Baal under the cover of night. "If Baal really is a god, he can defend himself when someone breaks down his altar" (Judges 6:31). This is how Gideon became known as Jerubbaal. After Israel's enemies began to gather, Gideon was again called upon. He summoned the tribes of Israel and proposed two tests to confirm Gods promise. This lead to the test with the fleece. First, Gideon put wool on a threshing floor: "If there is dew only on the fleece and all the ground is dry, then I will know that you will save Israel by my hand, as you said " (Judges 6:37). The next day, the fleece was wet with dew. He made a second request: "Allow me one more test with the fleece, but this time make the fleece dry and let the ground be covered with dew" (Judges 6:39). This time the ground was wet, but the fleece was dry. As Israel prepared to fight, the Lord used various means of winnowing the army. When He was done, Gideon's army went from 32,000 to 300 while the Midianite and Amalekite armies were "thick as locusts," and "their camels could no more be counted than the sand on the seashore." When Gideon became afraid again, God encouraged him to listen to sneak into the camp and spy on what the troops were saying. There, a man detailed to a fellow soldier a dream he had. "A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp. It struck the tent with such force that the tent overturned and collapsed." His fellow solider responded: "This can be nothing other than the sword of Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite. God has given the Midianites and the whole camp into his hands" (Judges 7:13-14). This was the sign Gideon needed. He returned to his men and on his signal, they all gave a great shout, breaking jars and blasting trumpets after they surrounded the camp. The Midianites turned on each other or fled. Gideon then sent a message to one of the tribes who had not participated in the fighting, Ephraim, and they killed two Midianite princes. Gideon then pursued the two Midian kings, routed their army and executed both. After, the Israelites attempted to make Gideon their king, which he refused. However, Gideon requested that everyone give him one of their gold rings, which he turned into an ephod, a garment used in oracle related rituals. The object "became a snare to Gideon and his family" (Judges 8:27) and the Jews worshiped it. Before Gideon died, the Jews again reverted to worshiping idols, though they enjoyed forty years of peace.

Malachi

Name: "my messenger" Author: Malachi Date: 435-430 BC Setting: Judah Reign of: Prophesied to: Postexilic Judah Concerning/Message: Theme: disputation Key Word: Curse, intermarriage, "but you say" Key Figures: Ezra, Nehemiah, Elijah (future) Malachi represents the last of the classical prophets, and his book closes the Old Testament. The name might be a title, but it does remind others that he is God's prophet. There aren't any specific details regarding Malachi's ministry. We do know he prophesied during the postexilic rebuilding efforts and the term "governor" (1:8) fits in the Persian era. He dealt specifically with the problems of intermarriage, corrupt priests, failure to pay tithes and injustice. His final message is a call to repentance. The book is arranged around disputations in which the Lord dialogues with His people with a series of questions and answers. It raises twenty-three question following a pattern of: (1) accusation, (2) interrogation, (3) refutation, (4) conclusion. This form reflects the people's spiritual condition as the recurring expressions "but you say" displays their argumentative and disrespectful manner towards God. Outline: 1. God's Love Announced (1:1-5) The people questioned the Lord's love for them. Their impoverished struggles and oppression leading them to doubt God's care for them. They were reminded that the Lord chose Jacob over Esau and his decedents received His favor so they could act as a blessing to the whole world. 2. God's People Denounced (1:6-4:3) A. Question of Worship (1:6-2:9) The people were to offer unblemished sacrifices. however the priests were allowing people to offer lame, sick and disabled animals. This was unacceptable and if it continued and the priests refused to fear God, he would reject them. B. Question of Divorce (2:10-16) The covenant of marriage was being violated in two ways: One, there was intermarriage with women who worshiped foreign gods. Second, divorce had become commonplace when it was intended as a life long bond. Divorce was permitted, but there were strict regulations accompanying it. C. Question of Justice (2:17-3:5) The people constantly questioned the Lord if He was committed to punishing the wicked and rewarding the righteous. He would send a messenger to prepare for his coming. D. Question of Tithing (3:6-12) The Lord charged the people with theft as they failed to give their tithes as required by Mosaic law. Thee tithes not only provided for the Levite priests,and the poor and needy, and celebrations, but reminded the people that everything they owned they owed to God. E. Question of Rewards (3:13-4:3) The people again challenged the Lord by asking if there was any benefit in serving HIm. To them, the wicked prospered and got away with their sins. God responded by stating that there were two fate for the righteous and the wicked. The virtuous' names would be recorded in the "scroll of remembrance" while the wayward would be burned up by useless chaff. 3. God's Messenger Pronounced. God promised that He would send the prophet Elijah prior to the future Day of the Lord to restore His people. This expands on the promise that He would send His "messenger" to prepare for His coming (3:1). Elijah would call on the people to repentance. The new Testament explains that John the Baptist fulfills this prophecy as he resembled Elijah in appearance, diet and in the same spirit as Elijah as he called people to repent. (Matt 3:4, 11:10-14; Kgs 1:8)

Micah

Name: "who is like Yahweh" Author: Micah Covers: Assyrian Crisis Date: 740-689 BC Setting: Southern and Northern Kingdoms Reign of: Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah Prophesied to: Judah Concerning/Message: Theme: Divine Lawsuit, "who is a God like you?" Key Word: Remnant, "shema" Heb =Listen Key Figures: Isaiah, Sennacherib Micah prophesied to the southern and northern kingdoms during the Assyrian crisis and was a contemporary of Isaiah. Samaria fell to the Assyrians in 722 BC and Judah became their vassal after it and forty-six cities were invaded. Jerusalem was spared when the Lord interceded in response to Hezekiah's faith. Outline: 1. Message of Judgment: "Hear All People (1:1-2:13) Through various legal and illegal means, neighbors conspired to steal the birth right lot lands of their fellows and the land became full of the injust and corrupt. This was significant because these lots were gifts from God and were not to permanently change hands. The property could be sold to pay off a debt, but was to be returned to the original owners in the Year of Jubilee, every fiftieth year (Leviticus 25). Because stealing this God given land had become commonplace, Micah announced that a foreign army would take possession of the land of Israel as it's people went into exile, robing them of their homes as they had robbed their neighbors. 2. Message of Hope: "Hear, Heads of Jacob" (3: 1-5:15) Micah directly lay the blame of the spiritual and moral corruption on Israel's sinful leaders. They had created an environment where their rulers were compared to cannibals who chopped people up and made them into stew (3:1-4). Their homes would be taken from them as they had taken the belongings of others. Their cries for mercy would be ignored and the Lord would give them no heed as they had failed to give grace to others in their darkest hour. In the center of the book comes an extension of the prophecy regarding the future Messiah (4:1-5:15). Micah stated that the future birthplace of the Messiah would be in Bethlehem (5:2). 3. Message of Pardon: "Hear, O Mountains" (6:1-7:20) The final section acts as a scene from a court as Micah calls the people into a courtroom as the Lord brings both his judgment and a lawsuit against His people. The mountains and heavens acted as witnesses to hear the indictments against Israel as they had been present to witness the sealing of the covenant between God and Israel in the days of Moses (Deut 4:26, 30:19). Israel had not upheld their side of the agreement as the Lords Covenant partner. While He did not have a primary interest in their offerings and their extravagance, He did care about the people's humility and obedience as should be reflected in their lifestyle of mercy and justice toward their neighbors. Once again, this book concludes with a message of hope and renewal for the future of Israel.

Boaz

Name: 'strength' Book Found: Ruth Setting: Bethlehem Role: Kinsman redeemer Relations: Ruth, Obed, Naomi The kinsman redeemer of Naomi; he married her step daughter Ruth.

Genre's of the Bible

Narrative Law Psalms (Songs) Wisdom Prophets

Figurative Language

Nearly every verse of Old Testament poetry contains figures of speech, and thus the ability to recognize various figures of speech greatly enhances the reader's ability to understand and appreciate the text. Common figures of speech include simile, metaphor, metonymy, personification, anthropomorphism, and hyperbole.

Covenants

Noahic Covenant Abrahamic Covenant Davidic Covenant

1200-900 BC Iron Age 1

Philistine dominance in lowlands of Canaan; Administration of Hebrew tribes under judges; establishment of united monarchy in Israel (c. 1000 BC); First temple built (960 BC); Division of the nation into two kingdoms Divided monarchy in Israel; fall of northern kingdom (721 BC)

Bible Handbook

Provides a clear and concise overview of each book of the Bible. This tool works through the Bible book by book to highlight key info. Typically addresses issues such as author, audience, date of writing and purpose for each bible book. It will also discuss theological themes and historical background.

3000-2166 BC Post Flood Early Bronze Age 1-3

*Civilization reestablished throughout the Fertile Crescent (urbanization, cities, agriculture, pottery, literacy).

Jeroboam I

Name: "[That God] will increase the number of the people" Book: 1 Kings 11:26-14:20 Role: First King of Israel (divided kingdom) Rule: 931-910 BC Setting: Divided Monarchy under Rehoboam Prophet: Ahijah Events: Israel divided Relatives: Nebat and Zeredan (father and mother), Abijah (son) Tribes: Ephraim Key Figures: Rehoboam, Solomon, Pharaoh Shishak The first king of a divided Israel, Jeroboam began his rebellion under Solomon and became king during the reign of Rehoboam. Described as a "mighty man of valor", he served King Solomon, being in charge of the statute labor or the corvée of Ephraim and Manasseh. In Solomon's later years, he had begun to extort high taxes to pay for his lifestyle, which included his wives and harems of a thousand females. In addition, he had begun worshiping the pagan idols these women had brought from their home countries. He also gave favor to the tribe of Judah over the others. The Lord became angry with Solomon and so brought up Hadad the Edomite, Rezon son of Eliada, and Jeroboam to oppose him. He promised He would tear the kingdom from the king and give it to someone else. (1 Kings 11:29-31) Ahijah the prophet met Jeroboam met Jeroboam as he was leaving Jerusalem and the two were alone in the country. The prophet took his new cloak, tore it into twelve pieces and told Jeroboam to take ten pieces for himself. "31 Then he said to Jeroboam, "Take ten pieces for yourself, for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'See, I am going to tear the kingdom out of Solomon's hand and give you ten tribes 32". Jeroboam raised the support of 300 chariots and had a stronghold in Zeredah. However, this rebellion failed and he was forced to flee to Egypt where Pharaoh Shishak sheltered him. The Egyptian king even gave the rebel his sister-in-law in marriage and they had a son, Abijah. When Solomon died, Jeroboam returned. When Rehoboam famously rejected the requests of the people to lessen their load and the advice of the elders advisors of his father, the foundation for rebellion was set. (1 Kings 12:13-14) "The king answered the people harshly. Rejecting the advice given him by the elders, 14 he followed the advice of the young men and said, "My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions." The northern tribes of Israel rebelled and when Rehoboam sent officials to enforce his demands he was stoned to death. The north then declared Jeroboam as their king, leaving Solomons son with only the tribes of Benjamin and Judah. The problem with this split is that the main center of worship was still in Jerusalem; Rehoboam's seat of power. The new king of Israel was afraid this would create a divide and so built two golden calves, one in Bethel (South), and one in Dan (North). However, the passages detailing these events are closely criticized as they are heavily and obviously biased. He also changed the say of the Festival of Ingathering, which might or might not have had an arbitrary reason. To reduce the north's dependence on Jerusalem, he also appointed his own priests who weren't Levites. Once again, these accounts are criticized as anti-divisionist. Jeroboam's reign was conditional on his obedience to God. However, his encouragement of idol worship was obviously not a part of the agreement. (1 Kings 14: 8-9) "I tore the kingdom away from the house of David and gave it to you, but you have not been like my servant David, who kept my commands and followed me with all his heart, doing only what was right in my eyes. 9 You have done more evil than all who lived before you. You have made for yourself other gods, idols made of metal; you have aroused my anger and turned your back on me." Ahijah even predicted the Assyrian exile would come about thanks to Jeroboam's actions.

Alexander the Great (Alexander III)

Role: Emperor and founder of the Hellenistic Kingdoms Rule: 336-323 BC Setting: Macedonia, Hellenistic kingdoms Events: Fall of the Persian Empire Relatives: Philip II of Macedonia (father), Olympias (mother) Key Figures: Darius III Alexander the great has many accomplishments to his name, but in biblical context he ended the Persian empire and is identified as the goat with one horn in one of Daniels visions in chapter eight.

Emblematic Parallelism

Emblematic parallelism is constructed with a symbol or a metaphor (an emblem) that is placed side by side (in parallel) with its meaning. A verse that exhibits emblematic parallelism will feature an illustration and its interpretation—an extended simile or an ancient object lesson, as it were. This poetic device is often used in the book of Proverbs. The first line gives the emblem and the second line gives the reality behind the figure of speech. Psalm 42:1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. Psalm 103:13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;

Job's Friends Representations (Questions of Suffering)

The Author: Suffering is pernicious (satanic) Job: Suffering is a puzzle (serious) Friends: Suffering is penal (Sinful) Elihu: Suffering purifies (shortcomings) God: Suffering is providential (sovereignty)

Central Theory (Mount Sinai)

The Central Theory places Mount Sinai in Arabia (at Jebel-Al Lawz), beyond the gulf of Aqabah, east of the Sinai Peninsula. This view has several ingredients in its favor, such as Pauls' indication that Sinai was in Arabia (Gal 4:25), the existence of an active volcano in the area reminiscent of Exod 19:16-25, and the association of Arabia with the Midianites (Exod 3:1; 18:1). However, there are several reasons scholars are reticent to embrace this view. Among them are the beliefs that the events of Exod 19:16-25 have more in common with a theophanic divine manifestation rather than a volcanic eruption and that Moses is also related to the Kenites who were a nomadic Midianite clan prevalent in the Sinai region (Judg 1:16; 4:11). Also, it is virtually impossible to reach the crossing point into Arabia in 11 days.

Bible Atlas

A map that provides geographic reference points for biblical events.

Ipuwer Papyrus

19th Dynasty copy of the Ipuwer Papyrus (known as The Lamentations of Ipuwer or The Admonitions of Ipuwer) in which a Middle Kingdom scribe laments the depths to which the country of Egypt has fallen. This article gives an account of plagues similar to those mentioned in the Bible. https://www.ancient.eu/image/5745/ipuwer-papyrus/

1010-970 Kingship of David

2 Samuel 1-24 David's selection occurs in 1 Samuel 16. Between chapters 16-24 he had roles other than king.

Archaeological Timeline of the Old Testament

3000-2166 BC Post Flood Early Bronze Age 1-3 2166-2000 BC Early Bronze Age 4 2000-1550 BC Middle Bronze Age 1550-1200 BC Late Bronze Age 1200-900 BC Iron Age 1 900-586 BC Iron Age 2 586-332 BC Iron Age 3/Persian

What are the types of Psalms?

Hymns Laments Royal Thanksgiving Wisdom Confidence Ascent Enthronement Imprecatory

Exilic Prophets (Book dates)

Jeremiah (630-580 BC) Lamentations (586-575 BC) Ezekiel (593-565 BC) Daniel (540-530 BC)

House of David

David: 1010-967 BC (Judah 7 years, Israel 33 years) Solomon: 967-928 BC. (40 years) Rehoboam: 928-911 BC (17 years)

Subjective Interpretation

This view focuses on what the bible means to the person reading it.

Post-Exilic rulers (Persian Empire)

Cyrus II (Cyrus the Great (559-529 B.C.)) Cambyses (529-522) Darius I (522-486 B.C.) Xerxes I (486-465 B.C.) Artaxerxes I (465-425 B.C.) Xerxes II (425-424 B.C.) Darius II (423-404 B.C.) Artaxerxes II (404-359 B.C.) Artaxerxes III (359-338 B.C.) Arses (338-336 B.C.) Darius III (336-330 B.C.) Alexander III (Alexander the Great (336-323 B.C.)

586-332 BC Iron Age III/Persian BC

Hebrews in captivity; fall of Babylon (539 BC); Return of exiles to Judah; Second temple built (538-515 BC); Alexander the Great conquers Persian empire (333 BC).

1405-1390 BC Conquest of Canaan

Joshua 1-12

Numbers

Name Bamidbar (Heb) = 'In the Wilderness' Author: Moses was the author of the Book of Numbers. Date of Writing: The Book of Numbers was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C. The Book of Numbers essentially bridges the gap between the Israelites receiving the Law (Exodus and Leviticus) and preparing them to enter the Promised Land (Deuteronomy and Joshua). It is the fourth book out of five of the Torah, or law. Preparation of the First Generation at Sinai (Numb 1-10) Failure of the First Generation (Numb 11-25) Reorganization of Israel on the Plains of Moab (Numb 26-30) Preparation for Conquest of the Land (Numb 31-36)

Day of the Lord

Often, this expression is used in the context of future events which refer to a time when the Lord will intervene decisively for judgment or salvation. This has been referenced to often throughout the bible and is associated with a day of chastisement and healing of the nations when the spirit of God will be poured out.

Peoples of the Middle East

Sumerians Babylonians Assyrians Persians Hittites Arameans Canaanites Phoenicians Philistines Egyptians Ammonites Moabites Edomites

Judges

Othniel Ehud Shamgar Deborah and Barak Gideon Tola Jair Jephtah Ibzan Elon Abdon Samson

Later Editions/Modern Bibles

Revised KJB New King James Bible New International Version

1050-1010 BC Kingship of Saul

1 Samuel 8-15

Samson

Book Found: Judges 14-16 Judged: Philistines Relations: Delilah, first wife, father, mother Key figures: Delilah Tribe: Dan Traits: Nazarite, lustful, Samson was basically the Incredible Hulk of the bible: sewing chaos among the Philistines by his Spirit given strength alone. Samson also belonged to a limited list of people who had a miraculous birth. His mother as barren, but an angel of the Lord came to her and said she would conceive. However, the caveat was that she was to raise him as a Nazarite and he was never to cut his hair. This would prove to be both his secret of strength and also his Achilles' heel. A Nazarite vow requires certain lifestyle sacrifices. This includes abstaining from alcohol, eating grapes and anything related to them, could not go near a corpse, and could not cut their hair during the term of their vow. As Samson grew into adulthood however, some less desirable traits made themselves known, namely lust and a lack of self control. When Samson saw a beautiful Philistine woman he wanted to marry, he demanded his father get her for him. "from the Lord, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines; for at that time they were ruling over Israel" (Judges 14:4). When he went to visit the woman, he came across a lion, and he "tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat" (Judges 14:6). When he returned to marry the woman later, he found a beehive in the carcass of the lion and he ate the honey from it. This snack inspired him to pose a riddle at his wedding feast to his Philistine guests: "Out of the eater, something to eat; out of the strong, something sweet." —Judges 14:14 He challenged them to solve it within seven days. If they did, he would give them 30 linen garments and 30 sets of clothes. If they couldn't, they had to do the same for him. The guests were stumped, and so they threatened the life of Samson's new wife and her family so she would give them the answer. Eventually, she got the solution from her husband, but when the guests gave him the correct answer he became enraged. "If you had not plowed with my heifer, you would not have solved my riddle." —Judges 14:18 The Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson and he killed 30 men, took their clothes, and then passed them on to the ones who solved the riddle. He then left his wife and went home. Samson's in-laws assumed he hated their daughter and so gave her to one of the men at the wedding. When Samson did finally return, she was long gone to another man and so her father attempted to give her younger sister to him. Samson became enraged and caught 300 foxes, tied their tails together in pairs, attached torches to them and set them lose on the Philistines fields. This resulted in the destruction of all their grains, vineyards and olive groves. The Philistines got even by immolating his wife and father-in-law. Samson then retaliated by killing some Philistines before hiding in a cave. The Philistines then prepared to fight to take the judge prisoner. The Israelites gathered 3,000 men and fetched Samson from his cave. He then permitted them to bind him with rope and take him to the enemy. Samson broke the chords easily when they arrived and slew 1,000 Philistines with a donkey's jawbone. God then provided a spring of water for him after when he was tired. Later, Samson slept with a prostitute in Gaza. Once the people in the city learn of this, they gathered around the city gate in preparation to kill him when he left. Instead, Samson left in the middle of the night and ripped the city gate off its hinges and walked off with it on his shoulders. Later, Samson fell in love with a woman named Delilah. The Philistine rulers approached her and asked her to trick him into revealing the secret of his strength with the promise of a generous monetary reward. She asked Samson several times what the secret of his strength was. He lied to her the first few times, making her look like an idiot to her benefactors. She pouted and cried to him each time until eventually get have up his secret. "No razor has ever been used on my head," he said, "because I have been a Nazirite dedicated to God from my mother's womb. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man." —Judges 16:17 When Samson fell asleep, Delilah cut his hair and his strength and the Lord left him. The Philistines then captured him, gouged out his eyes, bound him with shackles, and forced him to grind grain in prison. The Philistines praised their god Dagon for their victory and all their rulers came to the temple and three thousand watched from the roof as Samson was humiliated. After forcing him to perform, they put him between the pillars and he asked a servant to move him so he could rest against the pillars. Then he prayed: "Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes." —Judges 16:28 Samson then ripped out the two pillars and the temple collapsed, killing him and everyone inside. Samson's family retrieved his body and buried him "between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father" (Judges 16:31). He judged Israel for twenty years. https://overviewbible.com/judges-of-israel/

Documentary Hypothesis

The documentary hypothesis is essentially an attempt to take the supernatural out of the Pentateuch and to deny its Mosaic authorship. The accounts of the Red Sea crossing, the manna in the wilderness, the provision of water from a solid rock, etc., are considered stories from oral tradition, thus making the miraculous happenings mere products of imaginative storytellers and not events that actually happened and were recorded by eyewitnesses. The documentary hypothesis, along with the JEDP theory, denies that Moses wrote the Pentateuch and instead ascribes its authorship to four (or more) different authors/redactors spread out over several hundreds of years. The documentary hypothesis is liberal theology's attempt to call the veracity of the Pentateuch into question. Both Jewish and Christian traditions have affirmed the Mosaic Authorship of the Pentateuch, ascribing to the prophet, lawgiver, and founder of the nation of Israel. This is the unanimous testimony of the Old and New Testament authors, ancient Jewish rabbis, and the early church fathers, medieval Catholic scholars, and Protestant reformers. Questions about the authorship of the Pentateuch were raised in the seventeenth century by the Jewish philosopher Benedict Spinoza and in the eighteenth century by French medical professor Jean Astruc, which eventually lead German scholars to formulate the theory that multiple authors of various documents were eventually edited together to form the Pentateuch. This theory is now regarded as virtual fact by many critical scholars. Proponents of the Documentary Hypothesis rely on various pieces of internal factors such as differing literary styles, differing names for God, (Elohim; Yahweh), couplets (repeated stories), and editorial insertions (14:14; 36:31; 47:11). They often argue that writing and monotheism were unknown during the time of Moses. The Documentary Hypothesis was given its classical articulations by Julius Wellhausen (1876-83), who argued that anonymous editors compiled the Pentateuch long after Moses from the four documents: J (Yahwist, 850 BC), E (Elohist 750 BC), D (Deuteronomist, 621 BC) and P (Priestly Code 525 BC). Several reasons exist for this widespread Documentary Hypothesis to be suspect. First, it is contradicted by the traditional view of the Jews and the early church. Second, the Pentateuch itself declares Moses to be the author. Third, the rest of the Old Testament presupposes Mosaic authorship of the Pentateuch. Fourth, the New Testament designates Moses as the author of the Pentateuch. Fifth, the Pentateuch reflects a thematic unity that implies a single author. Sixth, the author writes as an eyewitness to much of the Pentateuch's content, which would be impossible for a writer long after the events. Seventh, the writer demonstrates a familiarity with Egyptian culture and geography, which would be unlikely for a later Judean writer. However, Moses' Egyptian education would have certainly qualified him to write the Torah. In addition, archaeologists have discovered multiple written languages existed long before the time of Moses. The Documentary Hypothesis is built on unfounded assumptions and evidence. The documents the theory relies on have never been discovered and no confirmation exists of them, or the people who are claimed to have written the books exists.

Gomer (book of Hosea)

Hosea's wife. God commanded Hosea to marry Gomer who known as a promiscuous wife. Whether she was a cult prostitute, spiritual infidelity or cheated after they were married is unknown. The natural reading is that Hosea and Gomer were husband and wife. However, their marriage symbolized the relationship Israel had with God: they were guilty of infidelity.

Tammuz

A Mesopotamian god of Sumerian origin associated with fertility, new life in nature and spring. The women of Israel were described as practicing the mourning rites associated with this god within temple precincts. This is mentioned as one of Israel's sins of idolatry in Ezekiel 8-11.

Jethro

Book Found: Exodus chapters 3 and 18 Priest of: Midia Events: The Exodus (Moses' exile) Relations: Zipporah (daughter), Moses (Son-in-law), Gershom (grandson), Eliazer (grandson) Key figures: Moses Region: Midia Moses' father-in-law.

Major Prophets (books)

Isaiah Jeremiah Ezekiel Daniel

Hellenistic Kingdoms

The Hellenistic period ("Hellenistic" coming from the word Hellazein which means "to speak Greek or identify with the Greeks.") lasted from 323 to 31 BC; from the time of Alexander the Greats death to when Rome conquered the last of his previously rules territories. This empire included all of the Macedonian kings conquered territories from Greece to India and serve to spread Greek ideas all the way to Asia and encouraged commerce from all of its corners. However, this kingdom was split in 301 BC and created four kingdoms: The Ptolemaic; Egypt and parts of the Middle East, Antigonid; Macedonia, Thrace and parts of Asia minor, Seleucid; Syria and remnants of Persia, while other smaller, spread out Greek states were scattered around the map.

Jehu (prophet)

1 Kings 16: Then the word of the Lord came to Jehu son of Hanani concerning Baasha: 2 "I lifted you up from the dust and appointed you ruler over my people Israel, but you followed the ways of Jeroboam and caused my people Israel to sin and to arouse my anger by their sins. 3 So I am about to wipe out Baasha and his house, and I will make your house like that of Jeroboam son of Nebat. 4 Dogs will eat those belonging to Baasha who die in the city, and birds will feed on those who die in the country." 8 In the twenty-sixth year of Asa king of Judah, Elah son of Baasha became king of Israel, and he reigned in Tirzah two years. 7 Moreover, the word of the Lord came through the prophet Jehu son of Hanani to Baasha and his house, because of all the evil he had done in the eyes of the Lord, arousing his anger by the things he did, becoming like the house of Jeroboam—and also because he destroyed it. 9 Zimri, one of his officials, who had command of half his chariots, plotted against him. Elah was in Tirzah at the time, getting drunk in the home of Arza, the palace administrator at Tirzah. 10 Zimri came in, struck him down and killed him in the twenty-seventh year of Asa king of Judah. Then he succeeded him as king. 11 As soon as he began to reign and was seated on the throne, he killed off Baasha's whole family. He did not spare a single male, whether relative or friend. 12 So Zimri destroyed the whole family of Baasha, in accordance with the word of the Lord spoken against Baasha through the prophet Jehu—

Eli

Book Found: 1 Samuel Setting: Temple at Shiloh Role: High Priest, mentor to Samuel Relations: Hophni, Phineahs Key figures: Hannah Mentor of Samuel and High Priest of Israel at the tabernacle at Shiloh. He was also one of the last minor judges. Eli abased himself, and his sons Hophni and Phineahs were wicked in the eyes of the Lord which prompted the loss of the Ark of the Covenant. For this, Eli's household was destroyed.

High Priest

The High Priest was the chief religious functionary in the temple of Jerusalem who had the unique privilege of entering the Holy of Holies (the inner sanctum). This happened once a year on Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement to burn incense sprinkle the blood of sacrifices. They had unique vestments which denoted their station and handled temple finances. After the second temple was built he had a more political authority as he was able to collect taxes. They could not touch anything that was considered unclean (dead bodies for instance), and could only marry virgins. Aaron, Moses' brother, was the first high priest. Elazar, his son, was appointed after him.

First vision of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1-3)

The Lord appeared to Ezekiel and commissioned him to be a prophet to his fellow exiles.

Elija (prophet)

This famous prophet appears throughout 1-2 Kings and is frequently referenced throughout the New Testament and the book of Ezra. The stories concerning this prophet are many, but in particular, he dealt with the corruption of the king Ahab in Samaria and his famously wicked wife Jezebel who tried to introduce Baal worship in Israel. His successor was Elisha.

Ezekiel: Gog and Magog (Ezekiel 38-39)

This vision concerns an end-time invasion against Israel when the the Israelites were secured in the land. A powerful ruler named Gog would form a coalition with seven other nations to invade the Jewish state in the future. The Lord Himself would defend Israel by pouring down torrential rains, hailstones and burning sulfur. In their confusion, the invading armies would turn against each other. For seven years, the enemies weapons would be used as fuel and it would take seven months to bury the dead. This destruction of the opposing forces would cause the nations to recognize the glory of the Lord and Israel to be ashamed of past sins. It would also reverse the defeats of the past and God would establish His people in the land and pour out His Spirit on them. This as so they would never again need to be punished for their disobedience.

Ezekiel's vision of dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14)

This vision confirmed God's promise to restore and spiritually renew the people of Israel. A valley pictured as a battlefield was littered with the bones of dead soldiers. The Lord commanded Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, then He put flesh on the bones and breathed life into them. This is an illustration of the state of Israel: their enemies had caused them to scatter like dry bones and breath life into them. There would be no hope until God's spirit brought renewal to Israel as a nation. It would be like a resurrection from the grave.

Ezekiel: Judgment against Tyre (Ezekiel 27- 28:2)

Tyre was a financial giant in the time of Ezekiel. The capital of Phoenicia, it was a trading center and seaport. however, they rejoiced when Judah fell because it eliminated their rival. The message of judgment stated that the Lord would bring an enemy army against Tyre and reduce the city to bare rock and a place to cast fishing nets. Ezekiel portrays the city as a stately ship made from the many products of its trade partners. However, a powerful wind would eventually shatter the ship and it would sink into the heart of the sea. Nebuchadnezzar lay siege to Tyre in 585-572 BC and destroyed many of its buildings. However, the citizens retreated to an island fortress. Alexander the Great eventually reduced the citadel to rubble in 332 BC and cast its remains into the sea.

Characteristics of Hebrew Poetry

Figurative Language Chiasm Parallelism

Oriental Institute Prism

Babylonian Chronicles

"He (Nebuchadnezzar) encamped against the city of Judah (Jerusalem) and on the second day of Adar, he seized the city and seized the king. He appointed a king of his own pleasure over it [the city]. He took . . . tribute and conveyed it to Babylon." After the Babylonians toppled the Neo-Assyrian Empire in 612 BCE and established control over Mesopotamia, they quickly followed the westward paths of their predecessors to reestablish control over the empire. Naturally, part of this imperialism included the defeat and annexation of the biblical kingdom of Judah. Much of our knowledge of this period of Babylonian history derives from a series of texts known as the Babylonian Chronicle.

2000-1550 BC Middle Bronze Age

*Patriarchs in Canaan (Genesis) *Joseph in Egypt (Genesis) *Hebrew sojourn in Egypt (Exodus)

Old Testament Periods

*Pre-patriarchal Periods: Creation and Flood Accounts *Patriarchal Period: Abraham, Isaaac and Jacob (Middle Bronze Age) (Genesis) *Exodus: Conquest and Settlement (1550-1292 BC) *Monarchy: Kings of Israel and Judah *Exilic and Postexilic Era (See ch 3)

Guilt Offering

A Ram or lam without blemish. The trespass offering (KJV, NKJV) or guilt offering (NIV, ESV, NASB) is described in Leviticus 5:14-19; 7:1-7; and 14:12-18. Two practical instances that would require a guilt offering are described in Leviticus 19:20-22 (a man sleeping with a slave who is engaged to another man) and Numbers 6:9-12 (a Nazarite who accidentally violates his vows). This offering should not be confused with the sin offering. The trespass/guilt offering was required when a person unintentionally violated some of the Lord's holy things. "Holy things" would normally refer to things that had been dedicated to the Lord—anything from the sanctuary itself to the portion of the offerings that were normally reserved for the priests. How this could happen inadvertently is not spelled out, but perhaps a person forgot to fulfill a vow, made some mistake in the fulfilling of it, accidently ate food that was reserved for the priests, or mistakenly ate a firstborn animal from his own flock.

Chiasm

A chiasm (also called a chiasmus) is a literary device in which a sequence of ideas is presented and then repeated in reverse order. The result is a "mirror" effect as the ideas are "reflected" back in a passage. Each idea is connected to its "reflection" by a repeated word, often in a related form. The term chiasm comes from the Greek letter chi, which looks like our letter X. Chiastic pattern is also called "ring structure." It is a "crisscrossing" between adjacent lines of poetry, sometimes occurring in extended passages of poetic literature. In a chiastic parallelism, the second line inverts the elements found in the first line so you have a pattern of A-B/B-A, or even A-B/C-B-A. Psalm 91:13 On lion and snake (A) you tread (B) You crush (B) lion-cub and serpent (A)

Paraphrase in Bible translations

A paraphrase is a retelling of something in your own words. A paraphrase of the Bible is different from a translation in that a translation attempts (to varying degrees) to communicate as "word-for-word" or as "thought-for-thought" as possible. A paraphrase takes the meaning of a verse or passage of Scripture and attempts to express the meaning in "plain language" - essentially the words the author of the paraphrase would use to say the same thing. Many people use paraphrases as their "reading Bible," preferring to read straight through as with a novel. This can be particularly helpful in long narrative passages such as found in Genesis, 1 and 2 Kings, and 1 and 2 Chronicles. Then they use actual translations—such as the New American Standard, New King James, and New International Version—for in depth reading and study.

Study Bible

A sustainable study Bible will be academic in nature and not given to a particular aspect of study. Notes in these bibles will typically focus on the application of a verse or passage. A literary study Bible will have notes that focus on various literary features of a passage. Same with historical or background study bibles. Many Bibles have footnotes with cross-references or very brief notes that may clarify the definition of a word, but a study Bible has much more extensive notes and may also include maps, charts, illustrations, and photos. A study Bible is like a Bible and commentary all in one.

List of High Priests of the Old Testament (Alphabetical A-Z)

Aaron Abithar Abihu Ahimelech Amariah Amaziah Azariah Eleazar (together with Ithamar) Eli Eliashib Elishama (together with Jehoram) Ezra Hilkiah Hophni and Pheneahas Ithamar (see Eleazar) Jahaziel Jehoram (see Elishma) Joshua Nadab and Abihu Pashhur Phinehas

Allegorical Interpretation

Allegorical interpretation looks for a deeper, spiritual meaning within the text. While not necessarily denying that the text has a literal meaning or that the historical incidents reported are true, allegorical interpreters will look for a deeper symbolic meaning. Some examples may be helpful: The Song of Solomon is often interpreted allegorically as referring to the love that Christ has for the church.

Pastoral Commentaries

Also known as expositional commentaries, pastors author these and are based on their sermon notes or manuscripts. The verse-by-verse nature of these commentaries reflect the minster's expository work in his sermon. They are edited so that the material reads like a chapter in a book rather than a series of sermons. A well-studied pastor will produce a sermon that points to good research.

Age Theory (Revelatory Day Theory)

Although Moses wrote the book of Genesis approximately 3,400 years ago, it has been in just the last couple of centuries that serious debate over the nature and date of creation has developed. Consequently, there are now a number of theories relative to the creation account, and one of them is called the Day-Age Theory. Basically, this is a belief that the "days" spoken of in the first chapter of Genesis are sequential periods and not literal, 24-hour days. Each day, therefore, is thought to represent a much longer, albeit undefined, period of time, such as a million or more years. Essentially, it is an attempt to harmonize Scripture with theistic evolution, or at least with the concept of an "old" earth.

Revelatory Day Theory (Age Theory)

Law code of Lipit-Ishtar

An more vestige of Sumerian law is the so-called Code of Lipit-Ishtar (c. 1934-24 bc), which contains the typical prologue, articles, and epilogue and deals with such matters as the rights of persons, marriages, successions, penalties, and property and contracts. Cuneiform law, the body of laws revealed by documents written in cuneiform, a system of writing invented by the ancient Sumerians and used in the Middle East in the last three millennia bc. It includes the laws of the majority of the inhabitants of the ancient Middle East—especially the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, Elamites, Hurrians, Kassites, and Hittites—who, despite many ethnic differences, were in contact with each other and developed similar civilizations. In certain periods this cultural community was reinforced by the diffusion of Akkadian, a diplomatic and scholastic language written in cuneiform. Thus, it is not arbitrary to classify the laws of these civilizations as "cuneiform"; indeed, it is a scientific necessity, because no other term covers all and only these laws. "Mesopotamian law," for example, captures only part of the range of laws involved, and the notion of "ancient Middle Eastern law" is too vast, for it also includes both Judaic law and Egyptian law, which were separate developments (though some scholars see a relationship between biblical law and cuneiform law).

Antithetical Parallelism

Antithetical parallelism provides an antithesis, or contrast. A verse containing antithetical parallelism will bring together opposing ideas in marked contrast. Instead of saying the same thing twice, it says one thing and then a different thing. The antithetical parallelism in Ecclesiastes 10:2 is quite apparent: "The heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left." Proverbs 10:1 A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.

Fellowship or Peace Offering (Includes Thanksgiving Offering, Vow Offering, Freewill Offering)

Any animal without blemish. (Species of animal varied according to individual's economic status.) Can be grain offering. The modern idea of a peace offering, also known as a fellowship offering, is that of "a propitiatory or conciliatory gift." A man who offends his wife will often visit a florist with the thought that bringing home flowers will help smooth things over—the bouquet will be a "peace offering" of sorts. Propitiate means "to make someone pleased or less angry by giving or saying something desired," and conciliatory means "intended to placate or pacify." These definitions are interesting because the phrase peace offering has come to mean something completely different—almost the exact opposite—of what it originally meant in the Bible. It was a voluntary sacrifice given to God in three specific instances. First, a peace offering could be given as a freewill offering, meaning that the worshiper was giving the peace offering as a way to say thank you for God's unsought generosity. The second way a peace offering could be given was alongside a fulfilled vow. A good example of this was when Hannah fulfilled her vow to God by bringing Samuel to the temple; on that occasion she also brought a peace offering to express the peace in her heart toward God concerning her sacrifice—it was a way to say, "I have no resentment; I am holding nothing back in the payment of my vow." The third purpose of a peace offering was to give thanksgiving for God's deliverance in an hour of dire need. None of these three reasons to sacrifice had anything to do with propitiation, with appeasing God, or with pacifying Him.

Elephantine Papyri

BAGOHI (Gr. Βαγώας), governor of the Persian satrapy Yehud (Judea) in the time of Darius II and Artaxerxes II. Among the *Elephantine papyri there was found a letter sent in 408 B.C.E. by the Jews of Elephantine-Yeb to "Bagohi, governor of Judah," in which it is written that a similar letter had been sent to "Delaiah and Shelemiah, sons of Sanballat, governor of Samaria." In this letter they appeal for assistance in the reconstruction of their temple, which had been destroyed by the priests of the Egyptian god Khnub.

Balaam Oracles

Balaam was a wicked prophet in the Bible and is noteworthy because, although he was a wicked prophet, he was not a false prophet. That is, Balaam did hear from God, and God did give him some true prophecies to speak. However, Balaam's heart was not right with God, and eventually he showed his true colors by betraying Israel and leading them astray. Balaam's seven prophecies were seven blessings on God's people; it was God's enemies who were cursed. In Numbers 22—24, we find the story about Balaam and the king of Moab, a man called Balak. King Balak wanted to weaken the children of Israel, who on their way to Canaan had moved in on his territory. Balak sent to Balaam, who lived in Mesopotamia along the Euphrates River (Numbers 22:5), and asked him to curse Israel in exchange for a reward. Balaam, of course, had no power, in himself, to curse Israel, but, if God were willing to curse Israel, Balaam would be rewarded through Balak. Balaam first offered fourteen sacrifices on seven altars and met with the Lord (Numbers 23:1-5). He then declared the message God gave him: a blessing on Israel: "How can I curse / those whom God has not cursed? / How can I denounce / those whom the Lord has not denounced?" (verse 8). Balaam again spoke a blessing: "I have received a command to bless; / he has blessed, and I cannot change it" (verse 20). Then "the Spirit of God came on him and he spoke his message" (Numbers 24:2-3). The third message was not what the Moabite king wanted to hear: "How beautiful are your tents, Jacob, / your dwelling places, Israel!" (verse 5). Then he gave the king four more prophecies, gratis. In the fourth prophecy, Balaam foretold of the Messiah: "A star will come out of Jacob; / a scepter will rise out of Israel. / He will crush the foreheads of Moab, / the skulls of all the people of Sheth" (verse 17).

Genesis

Bereshith (Heb) = 'in the beginning Genesis (Lat)= Generation, birth Genesis (Greek)= Origin, source Author: Moses (The author of the Book of Genesis is not identified. Traditionally, the author has always been assumed to have been Moses. There is no conclusive reason to deny the Mosaic authorship of Genesis.) Date: The Book of Genesis does not state when it was written. The date of authorship is likely between 1440 and 1400 B.C., between the time Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and his death. Genesis is the book of beginnings; it tells the story of the beginning of the world and specifically details the beginning of the history of the Hebrews. It is the first book out of five of the Torah, or law. Outline The Book of Genesis can be divided into two sections: Primitive History and Patriarchal History. *Primitive history records (1) Creation (Genesis chapters 1-2); (2) Fall of man (Genesis chapters 3-5); (3) the Flood (Genesis chapters 6-9); and (4) the dispersion (Genesis chapters 10-11). *Patriarchal history records the lives of four great men: (1) Abraham (Genesis 12-25:8); (2) Isaac (Genesis 21:1-35-29); (3) Jacob (Genesis 25:21-50:14); and (4) Joseph (Genesis 30:22-50:26).

Festival of Harvest or Weeks (Pentecost)

Date: May/June 6 Historically, it celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, and is also known as Hag Matan Torateinu (the Festival of the Giving of the Torah).

486-464 BC Dispersion of the Jews (Diaspora)

Book of Esther The Dispersion of the Jews, or the Diaspora, is a translation from Greek meaning "to sow throughout", "to distribute in foreign lands" or "scatter abroad." This term refers to the Jews to remained in Gentile countries after Israel was conquered, attacked, or after the exile. There were large communities of Jews who lived in Alexandria, Egypt, Rome, Syria, Babylon and Asia Minor. A community such as this is highlighted in the book of Esther.

Bishop's Bible

Date: 1568 Author: Matthew Parker and others Language: English Source: Geneva Bible Audience: Anglican English Speakers Queen Elizabeth I had no love for the Puritans and their Calvinistic doctrine. Therefore, the archbishop of Canterbury, Matthew Parker, a scholar, took up the task of coming up with an alternative to the Geneva Bible. Despite the fact that this book was designed to be an alternative from the Geneva Bible, it was still used as it's foundation. The main difference was the fact that the Bishop's Bible removed the more inflammatory language against the episcopal leaders.

Cyrus II (The Great)

Book: Isaiah, Ezra, 2 Chronicles Role: Emperor of the Persian Empire Rule: 559-530 Writings: Nabonidus Chronicle, Cyrus Cylinder, Histories by Herodotus, The Antiquities of the Jews by Flavius Josephus. Setting: Persian Empire Prophet: Isaiah, Ezra Events: Return of the Jews Relatives: Cambyses (father), Cambyses II (son) Cyrus II, also known as Cyrus the Great is one of the greatest conquerors in the history of the world. He established the Persian Empire, liberated the Jews, and was the only non-Jewish person referred to in the bible as a messiah. A brilliant military strategist, he was also a benevolent ruler who permitted the return of the exiles who had lost their homes under the Babylonians. He even ensured the return of the artifacts stolen from the Temple in Jerusalem. His place in the bible is solidified as the Lord's "anointed". The prophet Isaiah ministered in 740-686 BC, however, his prophecy in Isaiah 44:28-45:7 predicted Cyrus as savior of the Jews long before his reign. He is even called by name. 28 "who says of Cyrus, 'He is my shepherd and will accomplish all that I please;he will say of Jerusalem, "Let it be rebuilt," and of the temple, "Let its foundations be laid."' The books Daniel and Ezra also mention Cyrus. His encouragement rather than subjugation of natural cultures for the people under his rule brought together a meeting of eastern and western civilizations. During his reign the people thrives rather than stagnated and regained their identity. Proverbs 21:1, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases."

2166-2000 BC Early Bronze Age IV

Cities of the plain prominent in the Jordan Valley Abram enter Canaan (2091 BC). (Genesis)

Periods of the Bible (OT)

Creation-2500 BC - The First Generation 2500-2166 BC - Noah and the Flood 2166-1660 BC - The Patriarchs 1660-1445 BC - Egypt to Canaan 1445-1050 BC - The Judges 1050-930 BC - United Kingdom 930-586 BC - Divided Kingdom 585-457 BC - The Exile

Revised Standard Version (RSV) Bible

Date: Language: English Source: American Standard Version Audience: English Speakers The Revised Standard Version (RSV) is an English translation of the Bible published in the mid-20th century. It traces its history to William Tyndale's New Testament translation of 1525. The RSV is an authorized revision of the American Standard Version of 1901 and is one of four translations that have the ASV as its basis. The RSV translation panel used the 17th edition of the Nestle-Aland Greek text for the New Testament and the traditional Hebrew Masoretic Text for the Old Testament. In the Book of Isaiah, they sometimes followed readings found in the newly discovered Dead Sea Scrolls. The translation method utilized in the RSV is described as a combination of formal (word for word) and dynamic (thought for thought) equivalence. The RSV was the work of 32 scholars, one of them Jewish, drawn from the faculties of 20 universities and theological seminaries. A decision to translate the Apocrypha was not made until 1952, and the revision appeared in 1957. Insofar as the RSV was the first version to make use of the Dead Sea Scroll of Isaiah, it was revolutionary.

John Wycliffe Bible

Date: 1382 Author: John Wycliffe "Morning Star of the Reformation" Language: Latin to English Source: Latin Vulgate Audience: English speaking Christians John Wycliffe was the leading philosopher and theologian at Oxford and served as absentee rector at the church in Lutterworth in 1374. He gained the ire of the Catholic Church when he criticized its authority and doctrines. He wrote statements about the roles of government and church authorities, stating that leaders, secular or otherwise, have no authority to lead if they are ungodly. He believed that the Scriptures provided the standard by which traditions, Popes and other sources should be measured. This meant that the Catholic church was subject to the teachings of the Bible, not the other way around. When doctrines or Popes went against these teachings, they should be rejected. Eventually, he concluded that the papacy itself was a man made institution and the Antichrist. Wycliffe's dedication to scripture lead him to produce the first English New Testament. However, it was not the most wide spread English print as the Printing Press had yet to be created. Tyndale's Greek to English bible was the first to be mass produced.

The Mathew Bible

Date: 1537 Author: John Rogers (Thomas Matthew as an alias) Language: English Source: William Tyndale Audience: English speakers The protestant John Rogers worked closely With William Tyndale on an early compilation of English translations of the Books of the Bible. In fact, the this version is referred to as the Matthew-Tyndale Bible. Published two years after the Coverdale Bible, the Matthew Bible was the second complete translation of scripture to be printed in English. Previous versions included the Wycliffe (handwritten), Tyndale (New Testament only), Luther (German), and Zwingli (German). Two years after it's publication, King Henry VIII authorized the translation of The Great Bible, which was very similar to this new edition. In fact, until the new translation was completed, the monarch allowed the Matthew Bible to be used. When queen Mary Tudor (Bloody Mary) came into power in 1533, she was determined to return England to being a primarily Catholic country. She had John Rogers arrested and executed on Feb 4, 1555.

The Great Bible (Cromwell, Whitchurch, or the Chained Bible)

Date: 1539 Author: Lord Thomas Cromwell Language: English Source: Tyndale Bible Audience: English speakers Authorized by King Henry VIII, the Great bible was typically used in church services and was given it's name due to it's size. Sitting at over fourteen inches tall, it was often chained to the pulpit to prevent it's removal, thus the name "Chained Bible." Published in 1539, the Great Bible is identical to the Tyndale Bible, but it also bore the New Testament translations of Coverdale and content similar to the Matthew Bible. It was also the first authorized English translation of the Bible. The production was overseen by Lord Thomas Cromwell, the kings secretary. It went on to influence other translations such as the Bishop's Bible and the King James Version.

Geneva Bible

Date: 1560 Author: Various Language: English Source: Tyndale and Coverdale, Hebrew Manuscripts Audience: Protestants, English speakers In 1533, Mary Tudor, known as Bloody Mary, came into power and with her came the violent attempt to return England to Catholicism. Many Protestants fled to Geneva Switzerland where the Geneva Bible was complied. Reformers such as Miles Coverdale, John Foxe, Thomas Sampson and William Whittingham. With the Support of John Calvin, these reformists published their compilation without the approval of English royalty. This bible built upon Tyndale and Coverdale's works, but was the first English edition which was translated directly from Hebrew manuscripts. The translation work was done by William Whittingham, the brother-in-law of John Calvin. In 1557 the English New Testament was published and in 1560 the first edition of the Geneva Bible was circulated in Geneva which contained both testaments. This new compilation was dedicated to Queen Elizabeth I, crowned in 1558, and who put a stop to many of the violet acts perpetrated against protestants.

King James Bible (Authorized Version)

Date: 1611 Author: Various Language: English Source: Bishop's Bible Audience: English speakers Authorized by King James, son of Mary Tudor, the monarch was raised Protestant and decided he wanted a middle ground translation of the Bible. Rather than appeal to the Bishop's Bible, which was favored by the Anglicans, the Catholic Douay-Rheims, or any of the reformers texts, King James ordered the compilation of a bible which still bears his name. The task was undertaken by 47 scholars, many of them skilled in ancient languages.

American Standard Version

Date: 1901 Author: published by Thomas Nelson & Sons Language: English Source: Westcott-Hort and Tregelles Greek texts Audience: English speakers The ASV relies on the translation method known as formal equivalence or word-for-word translation. The New Testament texts used in the ASV of 1901 were the Westcott-Hort and Tregelles Greek texts. The 2015 edition of the ASV New Testament follows the Nestle-Aland, 28th edition. Using primarily the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament, the name of God (the tetragrammaton YHWH) is consistently rendered "Jehovah" in the ASV, rather than "LORD" as it appears in the King James Bible. This made the ASV the favorite of the Jehovah's Witnesses The ASV is not in wide use today, primarily due to its having been replaced, and improved upon, with the New American Standard Bible. In its time, the American Standard Version was a very good translation of the Bible into English. Its occasional use of archaic language was a drawback, along with its sometimes sacrificing readability in favor of strict literalness.

New American Standard Bible

Date: 1971 Language: English Source: American Standard Version The New American Standard Bible (NASB) has evolved from the American Standard Version (ASV) of 1901. The ASV, in turn, was the American version of the Revised Version (RV) of 1885, also called the English Revised Version (ERV). While preserving the literal accuracy of the ASV, the NASB sought to render grammar and terminology in contemporary English. Special attention was given to the rendering of verb tenses to give the English reader a rendering as close as possible to the sense of the original Greek and Hebrew texts. The New American Standard Bible is most known for its strict adherence to "formal equivalence" in its translation. The goal of the NASB is to be as literal "word-for-word" as possible.

New International Version Bible

Date: 1978 Author: Christian Reformed Church and the National Association of Evangelicals Language: English Audience: Modern English Speaking Audiences. Like its predecessor, the TNIV, the 2011 NIV was translated using gender-neutral translation rules, resulting in the replacement of gender-specific words (e.g. man, woman, he, she, son, daughter) with gender-neutral words (e. g. person, they, child). In many cases these replacements are made even when the original language clearly intends a specific gender. Further, the 2011 NIV alters key verses that define the roles of women (e.g., I Timothy 2:12 and Nahum 3:13), which may allow for interpretation consistent with cultural norms regarding the equality of men and women, but which do not accurately reflect the original language of the Scriptures. The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, which reviewed the 2011 NIV, issued a statement saying they could not recommend the 2011 NIV because of "over 3,600 gender-related problems" that were previously in its critique of the TNIV. It is crucial to understand that from 2011 on, the NIV will not be the same NIV the world has known and loved since 1984. When purchasing a Bible, "NIV" will now mean the 2011 NIV. Previously printed copies of the 1984 NIV will be sold out and no longer available. Samples of the translation were tested for clarity and ease of reading by various groups of people. The committee held to certain goals for the NIV: that it be an "accurate, beautiful, clear, and dignified translation suitable for public and private reading, teaching, preaching, memorizing, and liturgical use." The NIV is known especially as a "thought for thought" or "dynamic equivalence" translation rather than a "word for word" translation.

New King James Bible

Date: 1982 Author: Thomas Nelson Publishers Language: English Source: Audience: Commissioned in 1975 by Thomas Nelson Publishers, 130 respected Bible scholars, church leaders, and lay Christians worked for seven years to create a completely new, modern translation of Scripture, yet one that would retain the accuracy, purity and stylistic beauty of the original Authorized Version or King James Version. According to Thomas Nelson, the translators were unyieldingly faithful to the original Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic texts, applying the most recent research in archaeology, linguistics, and textual studies. Although the NKJV uses substantially the same Hebrew and Greek texts as the original KJV, it indicates where more commonly accepted manuscripts differ. The New King James Version also uses the Textus Receptus ("Received Text") for the New Testament, just as the King James Version had used.

Latin Vulgate (Editiio Vulgata: "Common Version")

Date: 382 AD Author: St Jerome Language: Greek to Latin Source: Septuagint Audience: Latin Speaking Christians Pope Damasus I commissioned the scholar named Jerome to produce a standard Latin version of the bible. The number of Latin speaking Christians had grown, so the Bible had been translated so they could understand it. There were several Latin texts running around at this point and the Pope wanted a standard version to promote quality and universal doctrine. Jerome completed his translation, based on the Greek Septuagint, in 400 AD.

The Septuagint

Date: About the middle of the 3rd century BC. Author: Jewish Scholars Language: Hebrew to Greek Source: Old Testament Audience: Greek speaking Hebrews This is the earliest translation of the Bible. Translated from the Hebrew Old testament, many Jews no longer spoke Hebrew and instead spoke Greek as it was the dominant language.

Festival of Dedication or Festival of Lights (Hanukkah)

Date: Dec/Jan 1-2 The Feast of Dedication, which was once also called the Feast of the Maccabees, was an eight-day winter festival celebrated by the Jews in the month of December or sometimes late November, depending on when it fell in the lunisolar Jewish calendar. Today, this festival is called Hanukkah or the Festival of Lights.

Feast of Purim

Date: Feb/Mar 14 Purim (Heb. פּוּרִים) is one of the most joyous and fun holidays on the Jewish calendar. It commemorates a time when the Jewish people living in Persia were saved from extermination.

Passover

Date: Mar/April 14-21 Commemorates God's Deliverance of Israel out of Egypt.

Festival of Unleavened Bread

Date: Mar/April 15-21 Commemorates God's deliverance of Israel out of Egypt. Includes a day of Firstfruits for the barley harvest. The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a feast that is generally mistaken for Passover. Passover however is only one 24 hour period while Feast of Unleavened Bread lasts for seven days.

Douay-Rheims Bible

Date: NT 1582, OT 1609 Author: Gregory Martin Language: Latin to English Source: Latin Vulgate Audience: English speaking Catholics The Douay-Rheims Version was the first English translation of the bible to be authorized by the Catholic Church. Based on the Latin Vulgate, Gregory Martin, an Oxford trained scholar, the book was crafted within the circle of English Catholic exiles on the Continent. Sponsored by William Allen, who latter became Cardinal, the New Testament text appeared at Rheims in 1582, and the Old Testament at Douay in 1609. This book includes the Apocrypha, but was often revised and compared to the Latin Vulgate by Bishop Richard Challoner in 1749-52. It was later photographically reproduced from the 1899 edition.

Coverdale Bible

Date: October 4, 1535 Author: Myles Coverdale Language: English Source: Tyndale Audience: English speakers The Coverdale Bible was the first printed English bible to contain entries of the Old and New Testament. It used Tyndale's translation for the New Testament section and Coverdale finished Tyndale's work on the Old Testament and Apocrypha. Instead of using the Hebrew text, Luther's German translation, Ulrich Zingli's Zurich Bible, and the Latin Vulgate were used in addition to complete the Old Testament translation. This bible was fairly accurate despite using translations of translations rather than utilizing Hebrew scripture. The second edition was completed in 1537 in England under license from Henry VIII. Coverdale was hired to assist Lord Cromwell, Thomas, produce the great Bible, which was for public use in Anglican churches. Mary Tudor (Bloody Mary) and her persecution of Protestants caused Coverdale and other reformers to flee for Geneva Switzerland where the Geneva Bible was eventually produced in 1557. Coverdale's work continued to be published into over twenty editions. He also helped publish a dual-language New Testament in English and Latin and an illustrated New Testament. Until 1979, the Psalter in the Episcopal Church's Book of Common Prayer was essentially Coverdale's translation of the Psalms. https://www.gotquestions.org/Coverdale-Bible.html

Day of Atonement (Yom Kipur)

Date: Sep/Oct 10 The name "Yom Kippur" means "Day of Atonement," and it is a day set aside to "afflict the soul," to atone for the sins of the past year. During the Days of Awe, God inscribes all of our names in either the book of life or death. On Yom Kippur, the judgment entered in these books is sealed. Yom Kippur atones only for sins between man and God, not for sins against another person. To atone for sins against another person, you must first seek reconciliation with that person, righting the wrongs you committed against them if possible.

Festival of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah)

Date: Sept/Oct 1 The Feast of Trumpets marked the beginning of ten days of consecration and repentance before God. It is one of seven Jewish feasts or festivals appointed by the LORD and one of three feasts that occur in the autumn. The Feast of Trumpets began on the first day (at the new moon) of the seventh month. During this celebration, no kind of work was to be performed, but burnt offerings and a sin offering were to be brought before the Lord.

Festival of Booths or Tabernacles ( Sukkot)

Date: Sept/Oct 15-21 The holiday commemorates the forty-year period during which the children of Israel were wandering in the desert, living in temporary shelters. Sukkot is also a harvest festival, and is sometimes referred to as Chag Ha-Asif, the Festival of Ingathering. The festival of Sukkot is instituted in Leviticus 23:33 et seq. No work is permitted on the first and second days of the holiday. Work is permitted on the remaining days. These intermediate days on which work is permitted are referred to as Chol Ha-Mo'ed, as are the intermediate days of Passover.

Biblical Commentaries

Devotional Commentaries Pastoral Commentaries Technical Commentaries/ Academic Commentaries

Counter Argument, Thesis, Theories

Documentary Hypothesis Secular Evolution Gap Theory Age Theory Revelatory Day Theory Theistic Evolution Naturalistic Evolutionary Hypothesis Northern Theory (Mount Sinai) Central Theory (Mount Sinai) Southern Theory (Mount Sinai)

Code of the Hammurabi 1700 BC

Documents from the time attest to the efficacy of Hammurabi's rule and his sincere desire to improve the lives of the people of Mesopotamia. These letters and administrative works (such as directives for the building of canals, food distribution, beautification and building projects, and legal issues) support the view which Hammurabi held of himself. His law code is not the first such code in history (though it is often called so) but is certainly the most famous from antiquity prior to the code set down in the biblical books. The Code of Ur-Nammu (c. 2100-2050 BCE), which originated with either Ur-Nammu or his son Shulgi of Ur, is the oldest code of laws in the world and there are differences between the two. Hammurabi's code was written in a later time when one tribe's or city's understanding of the will of the gods might be different from another's. In order to simplify matters, Hammurabi's code sought to prevent vendetta and blood feuds by stating clearly the crime - and the punishment which would be administered This code, as well as other ancient laws, align with the Ten Commandments and Mosaic Law.

Functional Equivalence Translation (Dynamic)

Dynamic Equivalence is also called functional equivalence. It attempts to render the text in a phrase-for-phrase or thought-for-thought manner. It is not so much concerned about the grammatical form of the original language as it is the thought or meaning of the original language. The dynamic translation wants to bring across the meaning of the original. It does not necessarily concern itself about the grammatical form in which it was written. The strength of a dynamic equivalent translation is that it is usually much more readable than a more literal or word-for-word translation. However, there are problems with any dynamic equivalent translation. *If the translators misunderstood what the original text was saying, then they will communicate this same misunderstanding to those who read their translation. *There is a practical problem for someone who teaches from a dynamic equivalent translation. The teacher must use the thought-for-thought translation that is given in the text. Since dynamic translations contain a large element of interpretation, there may come a time when the teacher disagrees with the way the passage was interpreted by the translators. What should he do then? Should the Bible teacher then correct the translation for his listeners? The problem is that if he starts doing this too often, his audience may assume the Bible itself is unreliable.

Archaeological Records

Epic of Gilgamesh Enuma Elish Egyptian Stele of Merneptah Tomb Mural of Beni-Hasan Law code of Lipit-Ishtar Atrahasis Epic The Egyptian Tale of Sunuhe Annals of Thutmosis III Ipuwer Papyrus Code of the Hammurabi Victory Stele of Tel Dan Moabite Stone Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III Bullae The Taylor Prism The Nimrud Prism Oriental Institute Prism Babylonian Chronicles Nabonidus Chronicle Cyrus Cylinder Dead Sea Scrolls Samaritan Pentateuch Greek Septuagint Aramaic Targums Syriac Peshitta Suzerain Vassal Treaty Bava Batra

Annals of Median and Persian Kings

Esther 10: (1) King Xerxes imposed tribute throughout the empire, to its distant shores. (2) And all his acts of power and might, together with a full account of the greatness of Mordecai, whom the king had promoted, are they not written in the book of the annals of the kings of Media and Persia?(3) Mordecai the Jew was second in rank to King Xerxes, preeminent among the Jews, and held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews, because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all the Jews.

Exilic and Postexilic Era

Excavations at Nineveh and Babylon in modern day Iraq reveal extensive evidence of their capitals Assyria, Babylon and Persia. Bricks bearing the name of Nebuchadnezzar indicate he rebuilt the city of Babylon. The Nabonidus Chrinicle confirms the existance of Nabonidus and his co-ruler son Belashazzar. The Cyrus Cylinder found in the runes of Babylon in 1879 confirms the decree for the displaced peoples to return home. It also confirms the permission and aid he gave to the Jews to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.

458-430 BC Return from Exile

Ezra and Nehemiah The books of Chronicles and Kings dealt with the problems which lead up to and caused the fall of Israel and the Babylonian exile. Ezekiel and Daniel were written during the 70 year exile. Ezra and Nehemiah covered the return and rebuilding of Jerusalem, it's walls and the Temple.

Bible Translation Variances

Formal Equivalence Translation (Literal) Functional Equivalence (dynamic) Optimal Equivalence Paraphrase

Apocolyptic Genre

From the Gr. apokalypsis, meaning "a revelation" or "a disclosure", is a type of Jewish and early Christian lit., the bulk of which stems from the years 200 b.c.-a.d. 100, containing visions or revelations. In its broadest sense the term "apocalyptic" is applied to parts of the writings of the OT prophets—specifically to passages in Joel, Amos, Zechariah, and Daniel—as well as to portions of the NT (e.g. the Olivet Discourse, 1 Thess 4:13ff., and the Revelation). However, the book of Revelations itself consists of 3 genres: letter, prophecy and apocalypse.

Gap Theory

Genesis 1:1-2 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." The gap theory is the view that God created a fully functional earth with all animals, including the dinosaurs and other creatures we know only from the fossil record. Then, the theory goes, something happened to destroy the earth completely—most likely the fall of Satan to earth—so that the planet became without form and void. At this point, God started all over again, recreating the earth in its paradise form as further described in Genesis. The gap theory, which is distinct from theistic evolution and the day-age theory, is also called old-earth creationism, gap creationism, and the ruin-reconstruction theory. The Genesis account of creation also contradicts secular evolution, which theorizes that all life, including homo sapiens, evolved over billions of years from lower life forms by natural processes. Theories of origins that accommodate evolution (gap Theory, day=age theory, revelatory day theory, theistic evolution, etc.) have all generally proven inadequate explanations of the obvious contrast between the biblical account of creation and general evolutionary theory.

Pre-patriarchal Periods: Creation and Flood Accounts

Genesis chapters 1-11 deal with creation and flood accounts. However, other articles of literature coordinate these events. Other parallel eastern accounts of these events were found in the Ashurbanipal library of Nineveh called Enuma Elish. This story laterally details a watery chaos that is separated into heaven and earth; light preexisting the creation of the sun, moon and stars and the prominence of the number seven. A Babylonian account of creation and the flood, known as the Atrahasis Epic gives a similar explanation. The gods rules heaven and earth and made man from a mixture of the clay of the earth and blood. A flood is eventually sent to destroy mankind, but one man, Atrahasis, is given advanced warning of the flood. He is then told to build a boat and load it with food, animals, and birds. After the flood ends and the boat lands, he offers a sacrifice to the gods with the chief god agreeing to continue mankind's existence. The Gilgamesh Epic, the worlds oldest epic work of literature, details the rule of the god-king Gilgamesh. It also includes further parallel details of a food account through the character Utnapishtim, a Babylonian Noah. This one sent out a dove, swallow, and finally a raven. When the raven did not return, he left the boat and offered a sacrifice to the gods. These parallel accounts were written before Genesis was recorded, however Moses did not borrow from these stories. One identifiable difference which sets the bibical account is it's approach. Genesis reads as a historical record, whereas the linear stories read as highly mythological articles. The boat used in the parallel accounts is not a seaworthy vessel with exact dimensions, but a cube. Instead, the bible is highly detailed, dignified, and presents an unparalleled cosmogony not represented in any other chronicle.

Grain or Meal or Tribute Offering

Grain, flour, or bread (always unleavened) A grain offering is a type of sacrifice described in the Old Testament (Leviticus 2) that the Israelites offered to God. A grain offering would have most likely been one of wheat or barley, depending on what was available. While other sacrifices had very specific instructions from God as to how they were to be offered, the rules governing grain offerings had some flexibility.

Post-Exilic Prophets (Book Dates)

Haggai (520 BC) Zacharaiah (520-470 BC) Malachai (440-400 BC)

Hymn Psalms

Hymn's are songs of praise that focus on the Lord's eternal attributes and His great acts in creation and history. The two basic features of a hymn are the call to praise and the reason. The reason explains why the Lord is worthy of worship. Psalms 8; 19; 29 and 104 represent the verse type that reflect on the perfection of the Lord as Creator. Psalm 19 celebrates how God revealed Himself both in creation and in His law. Psalm 104 is a hymn of thanksgiving that exalts the Lord for his initial work of bringing the world into existence for His continuing work of sustaining the creation by providing food and drink for each of His creatures. Other hymns like Psalms 105; 106; 114; 135; and 136 praise the Lord for His past acts in Israel's history. Psalm 105 details His protection of the patriarchs, the sending of Joseph into Egypt ahead of his family. Additionally, it goes into the rescue out of Egypt through the plagues, the provision of food into the wilderness. Then the defeat of Israel's enemies which allowed the Israelites to take possession of the Promised Land.

Formal Equivalence Translation (literal)

In formal-equivalence translations, translators attempt to translate each word in the original language into an equivalent English word. Formal equivalence, or complete equivalence, is also known as literal translation, or a word-for-word translation. The idea behind formal equivalence is to render the text in the same form as the original. This can also mean using the same word order as the original language. With formal equivalence each word of the original language is represented by a word in the target or receptor language. Examples of formal equivalence in translations would be the American Standard Version of 1901, the New American Standard Bible, and the English Standard Version. It must also be appreciated that no translation is totally literal all of the time. It is not a simple process of finding one English word for each Greek and Hebrew word. Furthermore, words cannot be translated in isolation For example, often when the New Testament speaks of people who were sick, the literal reading of the Greek text is "having it badly." Therefore, a literal reading of Matthew 4:24 would be, "And they brought to him all the ones having it badly with various diseases and torments." Matthew 1:18 speaks of Mary being pregnant. A literal reading of the text says she was "having [it] in the stomach." These are but two examples of how idioms need to be translated in such a way as to make their meaning understandable.

Synthetic Parallelism

In synthetic parallelism, which is not really parallelism at all, related thoughts are brought together to emphasize similarities, contrasts, or other correlations. Or, the second line completes the thought of the first line in some way. Psalm 2:6 "I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain." Psalm 1:3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.

Introverted Parallelism

Introverted parallelism, in which of four clauses the first answers to the fourth and the second to the third, or where the second line reverses the order of words in the first. Psalm 135:15-18 15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands. 16 They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. 17 They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths. 18 Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them. Psalm 86:2 Guard my life, for I am faithful to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God;

Pre-Exilic Prophets (Book dates)

Isaiah (740-680 BC) Hosea (785-725 BC) Joel (835-800 BC) Amos (760-753 BC) Obadiah ( 848-840 BC) Jonah (793-758 BC) Micah (735-700 BC) Nahum (663-612 BC) Habakkuk (610-605 BC) Zephaniah (635-625 BC)

Scripture Translations

It is recommended that an in-depth study of the Bible include the use of two or three translations of scripture. This enables a person to make observations across translations.

Twelve Tribes of Israel

Judah Reuben Simeon Levi Zebulun Issachar Dan Gad Asher Naphtali Ephraim Benjamin

1309-1050 BC Settlement of the Tribes

Judges This covers most of the periods after the conquest of Canaan, 1405-1390 BC. This was the time of the Judges before the monarchy.

Lament Psalms

Laments are prayers offered in times of trouble, pleading for God's help, intervention, and deliverance. These types of hymns comprise nearly one-third of the Psalter, which makes them the largest category of psalms. The key elements of a lament are: (1) Address an introductory petition, (2) lament, (3) confession of trust, (4) petition, (5) praise or vow of praise. Often they pray for deliverance from various types of distress. Psalm 3 the psalmist prays for the Lord to deliver him from enemies that surround him. Psalm 6 is the prayer of a sick individual who is about to die and needs God's healing. Psalm 7 is a prayer for vindication from slander and false accusations. In communal laments the people express their anguish and prayers for God's help in times of military defeat (Psalms 44; 60; 80; 85; 94). In Psalms 74, the people lament the destruction of the Lord's sanctuary and ask if the Lord has rejected them forever.

Babylonians

Location: Banks of the Euphrates Language: Akkadian Deity: Marduk Artifacts: Literature: Law of the Hammurabi, Nabonidus Chronicle, Epic of Gilgamesh, Artrahasis, The Babylonian Chronicles, Enuma Elish Notable Leaders: Hammurabi (1792-1750 BC), Nebuchadnezzar (605-562 BC) Prophets: Jeremiah, Daniel Books found: Daniel The Babylonian's may have been great conquerors, but some of their greatest accomplishment are the cities, buildings, and other architectural wonders they created. Much of their literature can be classified as Summarian/Babylonian as well as Akkadian. In the ancient world their culture flourished under Hammurabi, whose Law Code still exists as a primary example of their administrative capabilities. Later, Babylon conquered the Assyrian Empire before destroying Judah, Jerusalem and the Temple while carting off the citizens into exile.

Assyrians

Location: Upper Tigris Valley, Modern day Mosul, northern Iraq. Also includes modern day Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. Language: Akkadian then Aramaic Deity: Ishtar Artifacts: Taylor Prism, Nimrud Prism, Black Obelisk of Shalmanesar III, Oriental Institute Prism Literature: Flood Epics Notable Leaders: Tilgath-Pileser III (745-727 BC), Shalmaneser (726-721 BC), Sennacherib (722-705 BC), Ashurbanipal II (883-859 BC), Sargon II (722-705 BC) Prophets: Jonah, Isaiah Books found: 2 Kings, Isaiah, Jonah A Semitic people who spoke Akkadian before Aramaic became the popular language, they became synonymous with cruelty and terror in the middle east. Their palaces and reliefs were decorated with the kings conquests and were event boasted about by Ashubanipal II. "I stormed the mountain peaks.... I slaughtered them, with their blood I dyed the mountains red like wool." In 721 BC, Shalmaneser besieged Israel's capital, Samaria for three years. In 701 BC, Sennacherib took 46 of Israel's cities before laying siege to Jerusalem. However, this army was rebuffed when 185,000 of the Assyrian army fell after king Hezekiah made a plea to God.

Egyptians

Location: Banks of the Nile River, Northwest Africa Language: Egyptian Deity: Egyptian Mythological Polytheism Artifacts: Egyptian Stele of Merneptah, Beni-Hassan mural Literature: Tale of Sinuhe, Annals of Thutmosis III, Ipuwer Papyrus Notable Leaders: Judges: Moses Books found: Genesis, Exodus, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles Egypt is one of the earliest, grandest and greatest civilizations of the ancient world. It had several periods of success as well as collapse. Studying it's history is it's own career (Egyptology), and therefore, this card will focus exclusively on it's interactions with Israel. Egypt first appears in the bible during the patriarchal period. An unnamed Pharaoh took Abraham's wife Sarah after her husband lied and said she was his sister. Later, Joseph was sold into slavery where he endured many trials. Eventually he rose to prominence and became the Pharaohs right hand man after he interpreted the rulers dreams, predicting an incoming famine. This also resulted in his rescuing his entire family and moving the Jews into Egypt. One of the most prominent interactions detailed in the bible is found in the book of Exodus. The Israelites lived in Egypt for 430 years and eventually became slave labor. God eventually raised up a champion to rescue his people: Moses and Aaron. After a series of blights, the Israelites were permitted to leave and make their way to the promised land. After the exodus, Israel had several interactions with their previous slave masters, most of which didn't end well.

Hittites

Location: Modern day Bogazkoy Turkey, Asia Minor Language:?? Religion: Nature worship Artifacts: Clay Tablets Literature: The Edict of Telepinu Notable Leaders: king Telepinus, King Suppilulima I Judges: Joshua Books found: Genesis 23; Joshua 1:4 For a long time, the Hittites were believed to belong in the realm of mythology and were used to discredit the bible. That was until excavations in Bogazkoy Turkey in 1906 unearthed their existence. From that was gleaned 10,000 clay tablets from the Hittite royal archive which detailed their history, transactions, and the The Edict of Telepinu. This civilization probably reached it's peak under the leadership of Suppiluliumas I when they began smelting iron during what is called the Iron Age. Biblical scholars are most interested in the Hittite suzerain-vassal treaties which resemble the treaty form found in the book of Deuteronomy.

Phoenicians

Location: Modern day Lebanon Language: North Central Semitic Language Deity: Baal Artifacts: Literature: Notable Leaders: Hiram I, Ethbaal Prophets: Elijah, Elisha Books found: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Nehemiah, Joel, Amos, Zachariah, Joshua, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles The word "Phoenician" is a Greek term for purple, possibly referring to the purple dyes and cloths. The region was heavily protected by forested cedars and the Lebanon Mountain rage, which created natural boundaries from outside forces. These ancient peoples were known as merchants who dominated the Mediterranean shores of Europe and North Africa. By the Iron Age (1200 BC), they were a merchant empire force which connected East and West with the cities of Tyre, Sidon and Byblos acting as seaports. Biblical record initially depict a reasonably amicable relationship between Phoenicia and Israel. David and Solomon both established commercial agreements for cedar, carpenters and stone masons to build David's palace. Solomon also cooperated with Hiram to establish a seaport at Elath on the Red Sea so their ships could reach the coasts of Africa and Arabia. However, after Hiram's successor Ethbaal gave his daughter Jezebel in marriage to Ahab, things went wrong. Jezebel's violent tendencies to reinforce her and her husbands will, rather than respect Israeli law led to her death at the hands of Jehu. The greatest transgression Tyre made against Israel however, was it's influence of the infiltration of pagan worship and idolatry. Several prophecies regarding the destruction of Tyre were made in the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Joel, Amos, and Zechariah.

Sumerians

Location: Southern Iraq (Mesopotamia) Language: Sumerian Religion/ Deity: Mesopotamian Gods (Anu, + various) Artifacts: Ziggurat Literature: Sumerian Kings List, Epic of Gilgamesh, Lipit Ishtar Code, Enuma Elish, Standard of Ur, Ur-Nanmu, Laws of Eshnunna Notable Leaders: Gilgamesh (myth?) Books found: Genesis Summer was never a cohesive political entity, but a region of city states, each with it's own king. Much of their literature can be classified as Summarian/Babylonian as well as Akkadian. These were an innovative people who set up the days and nights into 12-hour periods, hours into 60 minutes, and minutes into 60 seconds. They had schools, early tales of the Great Flood, irrigation techniques, an organized government, cultures, cities, a functioning economy, a language and an alphabet. They can most likely lay claim to the oldest written story on earth: the Epic of Gilgamesh. The Sumerian city of Ur has been designated by many as the city of Abraham's origin. Their deity Nanna was worshiped at Haran where Abraham later moved on his way to Canaan. This places the influence of these ancient people during the pre-patriarchal period of the Bible.

Philistines

Location: Southwest of Israel between Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River Language: Indo-European Pre-Greek? Deity: Polytheism; Dagon, Baal, Asherah Notable Leaders: Judges: Samson, Shamgar, David Books found: Genesis, Exodus, Joshua, Judges, Samuel The Philistines were among the Sea Peoples who migrated across the Mediterranean from the Aegean in the second millennium BC. While a small group of Minoan traders might have reached Canaan in the time of the Patriarchs. However, the massive invasion of the Mycenean-like Philistines came around 1200 BC. These peoples were a frequent threat to Israel, as is documented in sveral books. The name "Philistine" comes from the Hebrew "Philistia", which the Greek renders as "palaistinei", which gives us the modern name of "Palestine". Eventually, this became the modern term for the region previously known as Canaan. The Philistines left no literature or inscriptions behind to help detail their history. However, they did produce geometric pottery reminiscent of Aegean Mycenaean III, though this is believed to be replicated. However, their civilization is marked in five cities: Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gath, Ekron. These peoples were the enemies judged by Samson and David and were referred to as "uncircumcised".

Nabonidus Chronicle

Nabonidus' faults and absence were recorded alongside events of his reign. By the autumn of 539 BCE,, Babylon has surrendered to the army of king Cyrus to become part of the growing Achaemenid Empire. From Babylon, Southern Mesopotamia, Iraq. Circa 530-400 BCE. Nabonidus and Belshazzar were the last two rulers of the Babylonian empire and their fall is detailed in the book of Daniel.

Deuteronomy

Name D'varim (Heb) = 'words' Deuteronomy (Latin) = 'second law' Author: Moses wrote the Book of Deuteronomy, which is in fact a collection of his sermons to Israel just before they crossed the Jordan. "These are the words which Moses spoke" (1:1). Someone else (Joshua, perhaps) may have written the last chapter. Date of Writing: These sermons were given during the 40-day period prior to Israel's entering the Promised Land. The first sermon was delivered on the 1st day of the 11th month (1:3), and the Israelites crossed the Jordan 70 days later, on the 10th day of the 1st month (Joshua 4:19). Subtract 30 days of mourning after Moses' death (Deuteronomy 34:8), and we're left with 40 days. The year was 1406 B.C. A new generation of Israelites was about to enter the Promised Land. This multitude had not experienced the miracle at the Red Sea or heard the law given at Sinai, and they were about to enter a new land with many dangers and temptations. The book of Deuteronomy was given to remind them of God's law and God's power. It is the fifth book out of five of the Torah, or law. Outline Review of Israel's History (Deut 1-4) Principles of the Covenant (Deut 5-11) Priorities of the Covenant (Deut 12-25) Practice of the Covenant (Deut 26) Ratification of the Covenant (Deut 27-30) Preparation of the Community (Deut 31-34)

Leviticus

Name Vayikra (Wayiqra) (Heb)= 'and He called' Leviticus (Lat)= 'and He called' Author: Moses was the author of the Book of Leviticus. Date: The Book of Leviticus was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C. Because the Israelites had been held captive in Egypt for 400 years, the concept of God had been distorted by the polytheistic, pagan Egyptians. The purpose of Leviticus is to provide instruction and laws to guide a sinful, yet redeemed people in their relationship with a holy God. There is an emphasis in Leviticus on the need for personal holiness in response to a holy God. It is the third book out of five of the Torah, or law. Outline Laws of Sacrifice (Levi 1-7) Laws of Priesthood (Levi 8-10) Laws of Purity (Levi 11-15) Day of Atonement (Levi 16) Holiness Code (Levi 17-27)

Exodus

Name: Shemot (Heb) = 'names' Exodus (Latin from Greek)= 'a going out, marching out' 'out of' Author: Moses was the author of the Book of Exodus (Exodus 17:14; 24:4-7; 34:27). Date of Writing: The Book of Exodus was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C. In God's timing, the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt marked the end of a period of oppression for Abraham's descendants. It is the second book out of five of the Torah, or law. Outline 1. Exodus from Egyptian Bondage (Exodus 1-18) Redemption (Exodus 1-12) Liberation (Exodus 12-15) Preservation (Exodus 15-18) 2. Instruction for the Redeemed Nation (Exodus 19-40) Offer of the Covenant (Exodus 19) Covenant Text (20-23) Covenant Ratification Ceremony (Exodus 24) Tabernacle of Worship (Exodus 25-40)

Nebuchadnezzar

Name: "O Nabu, watch over my heir" Book: Daniel Role: King of the Babylon Empire Rule: 605-561 BC Setting: Babylon, Judah, Jerusalem Prophet: Daniel, Jeremiah Events: Babylonian Exile Relatives: Nabopolassar (Father), Amytis (wife) Key Figures: Nabopolassar, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Nebuzaradan (general) Nebuchadnezzar was the successor of his father, Nabopolassar who established the Neo-Babylonian Empire and established the Chaldean dynasty. He is considered the greatest king of the Babylonian Empire. His feats include not only his military and administrative might, but the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and he reigned for 43 years. Nebuchadnezzar is featured in various prophecies, but is figured most heavily in the book of Daniel. The prophet came into the kings administration when he and his three friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah) were taken as intellectual hostages. They found favor with the guards because of their faithfulness to God's covenant lifestyle and were described as "ten times better" than all the other captives. These men were in frequent contact with Nebuchadnezzar and therefore feature heavily in any biblical narratives regarding him. (Daniel 2) Several dreams and prophecies are detailed in the bible surrounding this famous ruler. One was his dream of Four Empires, involving a tiered multilayered metallic statue. Daniel interpreted this as each type of metal representing a different kingdom, each of which would disintegrate. (Daniel 3) Another section details a mandate for Nebuchadnezzar's golden statue, which his subjects were required to bow to. This included Daniel's countrymen Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, though the prophet was absent from this incident. When they refused to bow, they were thrown into a furnace as a trial by ordeal. When they emerged unharmed they were released and cleared of charges. (Daniel 4) At one point, Nebuchadnezzar dreamed of a great tree being cut down and leaving only a stump wet with dew for "seven periods of time". The king desired to express the "miracles and wonders" of God towards him. He acknowledges that he heard the "holy ones" say "the Most High is ruler over the kingdom of men". Nebuchadnezzar fell into insanity for a while (clinical lycanthropy?), expressing animal mannerisms. When his sanity returned, he went home and accepted the Lord and the King of heaven.

Canaanites

People: Also called Phoenicia. Canaanites is also used as a broader term for Jebusites, Amorites, Hivites, and Grigashites. Location: Syro-Palestinian coast-lands, present day Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Israel regions. Language :Eblaite. Major branch of the Northwest Semitic family of languages. Religion/ Deity: Polytheistic; includes El, Aherah, Baal, Mot, Anat. Judges: Deborah and Barak, Joshua, Books found: Genesis, Numbers, Joshua, Judges The Canaanites are referenced frequently throughout the Old Testament as enemies of Israel. Genesis 9:18 describes them as the descendants of Noah's grandson Canaan, who was a son of Ham. After the Exodus, Moses sent twelve spies into the land of Canaan to ask for a report of the quality of the landscape and it's people. While it was bountiful, it's people were daunting. After Joshua took the reigns of leadership, he lead the Jews to take the city of Jericho and the land.

Nabonidus (+Belshazzar)

Name: "Reverer of Nabu" Book: Daniel 5 Role: King of Babylon Rule: 553-539 BC ( Co ruler with Belshazzar) Archaeology: Nabonidus Chronicle Setting: Babylon Prophet: Daniel Events: Fall of Babylon to Cyrus Relatives: Belshazzar (son) Key Figures: Daniel, Cyrus, Belshazzar, Amytis (wife of Nebuchadnezzar) Nabonidus served as co-regent with his son Belshazzar, however he resided in Tema (Arabi), not Babylon. During a banquet, which was making use of utensils from the temple in Jerusalem, a handwritten message appeared on the wall. MENE numbered MENE numbered TEKEL weighed PERES divided When no one could be found who could read the message, Amytis, the queen mother and widow to Nebuchadnezzar, recommended Belshazzar call for Daniel. The prophet was in his eighties by this point. He read the message to mean that God has numbered his (Belshazzar's) kingdom, weighed it on the scales of justice, found it lacking, and would divide it and give it to the Medes and Persians. That same night on October 12, 539 BC Babylon fell to Cyrus the great without a battle and Belshazzar was executed.

Jehu

Name: "Yahweh is he" Book: 2 Kings 9:1-10:36 Role: King of Israel Rule: 841-814 BC Setting: Israel Prophet: Elisha Events: Fall of Ahab and Jezebel Relatives: Son Jehoshaphat son of Nimshi. Key Figures: Ahab, Elisha, Jezebel, Omri (father to Ahab) Jehu was a commander of Ahab's army, and was later anointed as the next king of Israel by the prophet Elisha. Remembered as a reformer, Jehu was selected to remove the idols Ahab and Jezebel had propagated. Eventually, God's judgment reached Ahab. After he was anointed, Jehu immediately began removing the dynasty of Omri. He began by killing two of Ahab's sons, Joram of northern Israel, and Ahaziah of Judah. He then went to Jezebel in Jezreel where she was tossed from a window for the dogs to consume her flesh to the point where there were no remains left to bury. Jehu then began removing the pagan influences in Israel. He slaughtered the priests of Baal and destroyed the temple. All of these actions changed the foreign affairs Israel had with outside nations, specifically Tyre. However, Jehu enjoyed a reign that lasted twenty-eight years and a four generation dynasty.

Moabites

People: Descendant tribe of Moab Location:East of the Dead Sea between the Brook Zered and the Arnon River east of Jordan. Language: Moabite Deity: Chemosh Artifacts: The Moabite Stone Notable Leaders: Mesha, Balak, Eglon Judges: Ehud, Joshua Books found: Ruth, Genesis, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, 2 Kings The Moabites were a tribe from Moab, the son of Lot, born of an incestuous relationship with his oldest daughter. After Joshua lead the march into Canaan to take the promised land, the Moabites were confined to the territory south of the Arnon Valley. The Moabites worshiped the god Chemosh with their kingdom flourishing circa 1500-600 BC. The most famous Moabite in the bible is Ruth, the daughter-in-law of Naomi, wife of Boaz who is an ancestor of king David.

Jeroboam II

Name: "may the people multiply" Book: 2 Kings 14:23-29 Role: King of Israel Rule: 793-753 Setting: Israel Prophet: Jonah, Amos Events: Relatives: Joash (father) Key Figures: Considered the last great king of Israel, Jeroboam II was an accomplished ruler and military commander who expanded his borders and retook previously conquered territory. However, while the country experiences political prosperity, the prophets Amos and Hosea paint a corrupt government that would soon lead to a shattered country. During his reign, Jeroboam II regained the border of Israel from Mebo-Hamath unto the sea of Arabia in his war against Aram-Damascus. His expansion reached Hamath in Syria and reestablished the territory to what it was in the time of Solomon. These new lands were doled out to the kings favorites and their wealth increased. This spawned a separate class of wealthy land owners who were later heavily rebuked by Amos for their lives of excess.

Hoshea

Name: "salvation" Book: 2 Kings 15:30-17:6 Role: Last King of Israel (puppet) Rule: 732-722 Setting: Assyrian Empire (Tiglath-pileser III to Shalmaneser) Prophet: Hosea Events: Revolt against Assyria, siege of Samaria, Assyrian deportation of Israel Relatives: Elah (father) Key Figures: Tiglath-pileser III, Shalmaneser, After assassinating King Pekah, Hoshea son of Elah reigned for nine years as an Assyrian puppet. Hoshea was a vassal to the Assyrain king Shalmaneser, though his predecessor Tiglath-pileser III claimed that he was responsible for the placement. During his years in office, Israel was required to pay heavy tribute to Assyria. This caused Hoshea to attempt a bid for independence and he appealed to Egypt for help. This approach failed and Shalmaneser threw the Israeli king in prison before invading. Samaria withstood siege for three years before being captured and the Israelites were then deported. As a majority of the northern tribes had already been conquered this served to complete the destruction of the kingdom. Isaiah had already predicted this outcome in the book of Isaiah 7:16.

Exodus: Conquest and Settlement (1550-1292 BC)

One of the main contentions against the book of Exodus' historical reliability is the lack of detail regarding it's events. Surely there would be some historical documentation about a mass departure of slaves. There are a few valid explanations for this. First, there are some periods in Egyptian history which have been wiped out entirely regarding their monarchy. This can either be due to time, lack of proper documentation, inbreed leaders who weren't worthy of remembering, or successors who wanted to destroy the memory of their predecessor, such as queen Hatshepsut. With these issues in mind, it would not be too far out of the realm of possibility for the Egyptians to erase a humiliating defeat at the hands of slaves. What key links and correlations do exist have to do with the cultural landscape of the Egyptians and Hebrews. The Egyptian birthstools, loan words, and descriptions of locations such as Canaan being a land "flowing with milk and honey" found in the Exodus account were in Egyptian literature as well. The Tale of Sinuhe, Annals of Thutmosis III describe Canaan as a "land flowing with milk and honey". The uniform use of the term pharaoh ("great house") for the king during the new kingdom (eighteenth dynasty c 1550 c 1229 BC). Comparative Egyptian accounts of foreign (Semitic) slaves in Egypt (including their harsh treatment , use in building projects, and records of runaway slaves). In addition are the accounts of plagues similar to those mentioned in the Bible, such as in the Ipuwer Papyrus (13th century BC). Also detailed is the importance of magic to the Egyptians; archaeological discovery of certain places such as Avaris (Tell edh-Daba), Rameses (Pi-ramesse, Migdol (Tell Defari), and Succoth (Tell Masuta), are mentioned in relation to the Hebrews. Numerous ancient Near Eastern law codes have many parallels to the Ten Commandments and Mosaic Law. These include: Ur-Nammu Code (2000 BC), Laws of Eshnunna (1900 BC), Lipit Ishtar Code (1870 BC), Code of Hammurabi (1700 BC), Hittite Laws (1500 BC). The Egyptian Steele of Merneptah (12th century BC) refers to the Apiru (nomad wanderers) as slaves ande even mentions for the first time Israel as a nation-state. This would indicate that the Hebrews had already immigrated to Canaan and developed to the status of a nation. Concerning Joshua's conquest, only three cities were actually destroyed (Jericho, Ai and Hazor). Archaeology of Jericho in Tel es-Sultan reveals evidence of a fortification which collapsed outwardly. A layer of burned debris, ash three feet thick, and storage jars full of grain, which reveals a short siege in the spring which was unused by the invaders, just as described in the bible.

Jewish Feasts and Festivals

Passover Festival of Unleavened Bread Festival of Harvest or Weeks (Pentecost) Festival of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) Day of Atonement (Yom Kipur) Festival of Booths or Tabernacles ( Sukkot) Festival of Dedication or Festival of Lights (Hanukkah) Feast of Purim or Esther

Edomites

People: Descendants of Esau. Location: Petra Deity: fertility gods. Artifacts: Literature: Notable Leaders: Esau Prophets/Judges: Obadiah, Books found: Genesis, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Isaiah, 1-2 Kings, Matthew, Ezekiel, Obadiah The Edomites were the descendants of Esau, Jacobs brother. The turbulent relationship between the two nations reflected the issues between the two brothers. When the Israelite's escaped Egypt, they used the King's Highway, one of the trade routes which passed through Edom. When they requested permission to travel through the region, the Edomites rejected them by force. Both King Saul fought against this nation and David subdued them before he placed military garrisons in the territory. After Solomon, the Edomites revolted and gained their freedom until Assyria subdued them under Tiglath-plieser. Later, the prophet Obadiah predicted their downfall. When the Babylonians sacked the Jews, Edom took part in it.

Persians

People: Indo-Europeans, close to the Medes Location: Modern day Iran Language: Persian (Farsi) Deity: Persian Mythology, Zoroastrianism? Archaeology: Nabonidus Chronicle, Cyrus Cylinder, Histories by Herodotus, Antiquities of the Jews by Flavius Josephus. Literature: Behistun Inscription Notable Leaders: Cambyses I, Cyrus II (the great), Xerxes I, Artaxerxes II (Ahasuerus), Darius II Prophets: Ezra, Nehemiah Books found: Jeremiah, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, Isaiah, Esther The Persians hold a special place in history for their outstanding military, leadership and innovations in government. However, biblically, they hold a specific and special place in the history of the Jewish people. The prophets Jeremiah, Isaiah and Daniel all prophesied the Medes and the Persians would overthrow the Babylonian Empire. Isaiah specifically makes reference to Cyrus the Great (Cyrus II) in Isaiah 45:1, which was written over 100 years before the ruler was born. In 539 BC, Cyrus II lead the invasion of Babylonia and captured it's capital Babylon. The book of Daniel details a message presented to the Babylonian co-ruler King Belshazzar during a banquet. A supernatural note appeared on the walls of the hall which was interpreted as God's displeasure with the kingdom, therefore it's day were measured. That same evening was when the Babylonian Empire fell. Cyrus let the Hebrews return home after seventy years of exile. Unlike other rulers, he didn't try and subjugate the cultures and beliefs of the various nationalities under his ruler. Instead, he permitted and encouraged the individual cultures to thrive. A prime example is how he returned the items of the temple in Jerusalem to the Jews and permitted reconstruction efforts. His successors (Darius II) also put down attempts to delay and stop the efforts to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. Other Persian leaders to feature heavily in the Bible is Artaxerxes II, referred to as Ahasuerus, who became the husband to Esther in the book of Esther. Darius of Mede was the regional Persian leader who threw Daniel into the lions den for opposing a new law regarding prayer. https://www.ancient.eu/Ancient_Persian_Religion/ https://www.ancient.eu/zoroastrianism/

Ammonites

People: Semitic people, related to Israel. Descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew Location: Modern Amman, Jordan, Transjordan plateau Deity: Milcom and Molech Notable Leaders: Nahash Judges: Jephthah Books found: Genesis, Judges Lot, the nephew of Abraham, was the progenitor of the Ammonites. They were born from an incestuous relatioship between him and his daughters after they plied him with alcohol before sleeping with him. This ancestor was named Ben-Ammi ("son of my people"). Despite their relationship with Israel, they were often on bad terms with each other. When the Jews left Egypt, the Ammonites refused to help in any way. However, God instructed the Israelites to leave their land alone and not harass them. This pagan people, who were known to cruelly rip open pregnant women, would later be judged by Jephthah.

Arameans

People: Syrians Location: Fertile Crescent in Syria, upper Mesopotamia Language: Aramaic Artifacts: Tablets of Elba Literature: Notable Leaders: Naaman, Ben Hadad I, Hazael, Rezin Prophets/Judges: Elisha Books found: Genesis, Deuteronomy, 2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles. The name Aram is derived from the grandson of Abraham's brother Nahor and is identified in the bible with the descendants of Shem. The Israelite patriarchs were called Arameans. Bethuel and Laban, relatives of Abraham, also belonged to this group. The Assyrian's depicted the Arameans as large tribal groups with a pastoral lifestyle in ancient Syria. In the tenth century BC, Damascus was the capital of the Aramean state and was frequently mentioned in 1-2 Kings. King David successfully defended another group of Syrians from the Arameans. However, they became a thorn in the sides of the kings who followed. They killed king Ahab and wounded both king Joram and Joash. When the Babylonians invaded, the Arameans game them aid.

Syriac Peshitta

Peshitta, (Syriac: "simple," or "common"), Syriac version of the Bible, the accepted Bible of Syrian Christian churches from the end of the 3rd century ad. Of the vernacular versions of the Bible, the Old Testament Peshitta is second only to the Greek Septuagint in antiquity, dating from probably the 1st and 2nd centuries ad. The earliest parts in Old Syriac are thought to have been translated from Hebrew or Aramaic texts by Jewish Christians at Edessa, although the Old Testament Peshitta was later revised according to Greek textual principles. The earliest extant versions of the New Testament Peshitta date to the 5th century ad and exclude The Second Letter of Peter, The Second Letter of John, the Third Letter of John, The Letter of Jude, and The Revelation to John, which were not canonical in the Syrian church.

Devotional Commentaries

Primarily focuses on reflection and application rather than discussion of the structure or different interpretation option of a passage. A devotional's goal is to provide a memorable point of reflection or application that will aid the reader in utilizing a passage of the bible in their daily life. This is based often on a key word, element of historical context, or biographical components in the text. However, it does not necessarily address the meaning or significance of the whole passage.

Types of Study Bibles(dosuments)

Study Bible Scripture Translations Bible Handbook Concordance One-Volume Commentary Expository Dictionary Bible Atlas A Notebook Bible

Synonymous Parallelism

Synonymous parallelism is a poetic literary device which involves the repetition of one idea in successive lines. The first half of a verse will make a statement, and the second half will essentially say the same thing in different words. The statements are "parallel" in that they are juxtaposed, or side by side, and they often share similar syntax. The statements are "synonymous" in that they say the same thing, with some minor variations, but synonymous parallelism is probably the most common. Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Aramaic Targums

Targum, (Aramaic: "Translation," or "Interpretation"), any of several translations of the Hebrew Bible or portions of it into the Aramaic language. The word originally indicated a translation of the Old Testament in any language but later came to refer specifically to an Aramaic translation. The earliest Targums date from the time after the Babylonian Exile when Aramaic had superseded Hebrew as the spoken language of the Jews in Palestine. Aramaic was firmly established in Palestine by the 1st century ad, although Hebrew still remained the learned and sacred language. Thus the Targums were designed to meet the needs of unlearned Jews to whom the Hebrew of the Old Testament was unintelligible. This translation was foe the Jews living in Babylon who spoke Aramaic prior to the Christian era.

Thanksgiving Psalms

Thanksgiving psalms are prayers expressing thanks to God for specific answers to prayer or deliverance from danger. The lament is offered before the deliverance, and the thanksgiving is offered after. The three elements of these are (1) a proclamation or resolve to praise, (2) report of the deliverance, (3) concluding praise or instruction for other worshipers. An example of these psalms are Psalms 30; 32; 66; 118; 124. These songs represent the fulfillment of the vow of praise expressed in the lament when the psalmist petitions the Lord for deliverance in the midst of adversary (Ps 66:13-15).

Atrahasis Epic

The Atrahasis is the Akkadian/Babylonian epic of the Great Flood sent by the gods to destroy human life. Only the good man, Atrahasis (his name translates as `exceedingly wise') was warned of the impending deluge by the god Enki (also known as Ea) who instructed him to build an ark to save himself. Atrahasis heeded the words of the god, loaded two of every kind of animal into the ark, and so preserved life on earth. Written down in the mid-17th century BCE, the Atrahasis can be dated by the colophon to the reign of the Babylonian King Hammurabi's great-grandson, Ammi-Saduqa (1646-1626 BCE) though the tale itself is considered much older, passed down through oral transmission. The Sumerian Flood Story (known as the `Eridu Genesis') which tells the same story, is certainly older (composed c. 2300 BCE) and Tablet XI of The Epic of Gilgamesh, which also relates the tale of the Great Flood, is even older than that. The Atrahasis Epic provides parallels to the bible's flood accounts. The gods moving heavens and earth, making man from the clay of the earth mixed with blood, a flood being sent to destroy mankind with one, Atrahasis or 'Noah', being given advanced warning. The forewarned man was to build a boat to be loaded with birds and animals in order to survive the flood. After the deluge ends and the waters retreat, he offers a sacrifice to the gods with the chief god agreeing to continue mankind's existence. https://www.ancient.eu/article/227/the-atrahasis-epic-the-great-flood--the-meaning-of/

Davidic Covenant

The Davidic Covenant centers on several key promises that are made to David. First, God reaffirms the promise of the land that He made in the first two covenants with Israel (the Abrahamic and Mosaic Covenants). This promise is seen in 2 Samuel 7:10, "I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore." God then promises that David's son will succeed him as king of Israel and that this son (Solomon) would build the temple. This promise is seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-13, " I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name." But then the promise continues and expands: "I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever" (verse 13), and "Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever" (verse 16). What began as a promise that David's son Solomon would be blessed and build the temple turns into something different—the promise of an everlasting kingdom. Another Son of David would rule forever and build a lasting House. This is a reference to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, called the Son of David in Matthew 21:9.

Dead Sea Scrolls

The Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS) are a collection of scrolls found in the desert east of Jerusalem on the shore of the Dead Sea. They represent the largest manuscript collections of texts from the Second Temple Period found in the area of Judah, an area notorious for its lack of manuscripts. Around 930 texts were found in 11 caves in the hills surrounding Khirbet (=ruins of) Qumran. The texts are the product of a community of Essenes who lived in the nearby ruins of Qumran and were composed between the 3rd century BCE and the 1st century CE. They are significant because they shed considerable light on the religious and political world of late Second Temple Judaism and on the text of the Hebrew Bible.

Enuma Elish

The Enuma Elish, also called The Seven Tablets of Creation, is the Babylonian creation myth. The story, one of the oldest, if not the oldest in the world, concerns the birth of the gods and the creation of the universe and human beings. In the beginning, there was only undifferentiated water swirling in chaos. Out of this swirl, the waters divided into sweet, fresh water, known as the god Apsu, and salty bitter water, the goddess Tiamat. Once differentiated, the union of these two entities gave birth to the younger gods. The corresponding details of the bible and the Enuma Elish share are striking. The watery chaos that is separated into heaven and earth, light preexisting the creation of sun, moon, and stars and the prominence of the number seven are marked similarities between the two articles.

Secular Evolution

The Genesis account of creation also contradicts secular evolution, which theorizes that all life, including homo sapiens, evolved over billions of years from lower life forms by natural processes. Theories of origins that accommodate evolution (gap Theory, day=age theory, revelatory day theory, theistic evolution, etc.) have all generally proven inadequate explanations of the obvious contrast between the biblical account of creation and general evolutionary theory.

Hebrew Bible (Tanakh)

The Jewish Bible (also called the Hebrew Bible or Tanakh) is another term for what Christians call the Old Testament portion of the Bible. One distinctive feature of the Jewish Bible is that it divides the Old Testament into its traditional Hebrew sections. The four sections include the : Chumash (The Five Books of Moses), the Neviim (The Prophets), the Treisar (The Minor Prophets) and the Ketuvim (The Writings). The order of the books in the 1917 Jewish Bible, including the Hebrew names, is as follows: Chumash / Torah / The Five Books of Moses Bereshit / Genesis Shemot / Exodus VaYikra / Leviticus BaMidbar / Numbers Devarim / Deuteronomy Neviim / The Prophets Yehoshua / Joshua Shoftim / Judges Shmuel A and B / 1—2 Samuel Melachim A and B / 1—2 Kings Yishiyah / Isaiah Yermiyah / Jeremiah Yechezchial / Ezekiel Daniyel / Daniel Treisar / The Minor Prophets Hoshea / Hosea Yoel / Joel Amos / Amos Ovadiyah / Obadiah Yonah / Jonah Michah / Micah Nachum / Nahum Habakuk / Habakkuk Tzefaniyah / Zephaniah Haggi / Haggai Zechariyah / Zechariah Malachi / Malachi Ketuvim / The Writings Tehilim / Psalms Mishlei / Proverbs Eyov / Job Megilot, which includes: Shir HaShirim / Song of Songs Ruth / Ruth Eichah / Lamentations Keholet / Ecclesiastes Esther / Esther Ezra / Ezra Nechemiyah / Nehemiah Divrei Yamim A and B / 1—2 Chronicles

Egyptian Stele of Merneptah

The Merneptah Stele is an ancient slab of rock describing the many conquests of the Egyptian Pharaoh Merneptah. The ancient Egyptian king is believed to have ruled between 1213 BCE and 1203 BCE when he waged campaigns against the Libyans and their allies. This Stele refers to the 'Apiru'; nomadic wanderers, as slaves and mentioned Israel as a nation-state for the first time. This indicates that the Hebrews had already immigrated to Canaan and developed into a nation.

The Egyptian Tale of Sinuhe

The Middle Kingdom of ancient Egypt (2000 BCE - 1700 BCE) saw the start of more formal writing which included religious scripts, administrative notes, and more in-depth fictional writing. One of the most iconic pieces of writing to come out of the Middle Kingdom was The Tale of Sinuhe. Sinuhe was a courier and assistant to the King of Egypt, Amenhotep I. He fled Egypt and joined a Bedouin tribe to the east and started a new life near Syria. The story of Sinuhe refers to a man who fled his duties in Egypt and became a Bedouin in an Asiatic tribe. Sinuhe was an assistant to King Amenemhat I who was the first king of the 12th Dynasty in Egypt (1991 - 1962 BCE). The tale begins with the death of Amenemhat and the news travels to his son Senusert I who is fighting to the East. Word of his death reaches the son and Sinuhe. Sinhue panics and is scared to return home as he is unaware of how the King died. He then flees to the east to go into exile. This book provides evidence of loanwords to the Jews from their time in Egypt, such as describing Canaan as a land "flowing with milk and honey". This description also appears in the Annals of Thutmosis III.

Moabite Stone (Mesha Stele)

The Moabite Stone, otherwise known as the Mesha Stele, contains an ancient inscription by Mesha, King of Moab during the late 9th century BCE, elements of which match events in the Hebrew Bible. The inscription describes two aspects of how Mesha lead Moab into victory against ancient Israel. First, he claims to have defeated ancient Israel on many fronts, capturing or reclaiming many cities and slaying the inhabitants. Second, Mesha claims to have reconstructed or repaired many cities and buildings, including a fortress, king's residence, and cisterns for water storage. Unfortunately, the last five lines of the inscription are broken. So, scholars are unsure exactly how the Moabite Stone ends. This artifact specifically references Omri as the king of Israel, making it a source of interest for biblical scholars.

The Nimrud Prism

The Nimrud Prism commemorates Sargon's rule. After boasting of how he deported and resettled Israelites in "the midst of Assyria," Sargon claims that "I repopulated Sameria more than before. I brought into it people from countries conquered by my hands. I appointed my eunuch as governor over them. And I counted them as Assyrians." http://cojs.org/the_nimrud_prism-_720_bce/

Noahic Covenant

The Noahic Covenant, found in Genesis 9:8-17, is the promise that God made to Noah and his descendants after the flood which destroyed the world. The Noahic Covenant has several distinguishing features. First, it is an unconditional covenant. Second, it was made to Noah and all his descendants as well as "every living creature" and the earth in general (Genesis 9:8-10). Third, it was sealed with a sign, the rainbow.

Northern Theory (Mount Sinai)

The Northern Theory places Mount Sinai in the northwestern area of the Sinai. In its favor is the fact that Moses requested a three-day journey (Exod 3:18) and that the northern route is the shortest journey to Kadesh Barnea. However, this theory fails since it keeps Israel close to Egyptian territory, does not consider the 10-day journey between Kadesh and Mount Sinai (Deut 1:2), and does not acknowledge that God led Israel away from the Philistines fortresses along the coast (Exod 13:17)

Prophecy Genre

The Prophetic writings are the Old Testament books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, and the New Testament book of Revelation. They include predictions of future events, warnings of coming judgment, and an overview of God's plan for Israel. Apocalyptic literature is a specific form of prophecy, largely involving symbols and imagery and predicting disaster and destruction. We find this type of language in Daniel (the beasts of chapter 7), Ezekiel (the scroll of chapter 3), Zechariah (the golden lampstand of chapter 4), and Revelation (the four horsemen of chapter 6).

Confidence Psalms

The Psalms of confidence are expressions of trust in the Lord and praise to the Lord for the security He provides to those who trust in Him. Psalms 23; 46; 62; 91; and 125 are examples of the songs of confidence, and metaphors of God's protections and security are especially prominent in these psalms.

Samaritan Pentateuch

The Samaritan Pentateuch are the five books of Moses (Pentateuch) which the Samaritans took over from the Jews when they gained their independence in the 4th century B.C. This is one of the most significant manuscripts in the British Library's collections, and reveals the Smaritan scribal tradition of copying manuscripts of the Pentateuch. It was written in Samaritan majuscule Hebrew characters by the scribe Abraham ben Jacob ben Tabya ben Sa'adah ben Abraham of the Pijma family, and is typical of the Damascene scribal tradition. The Decalogue (Ten Commandments in Exodus) is indicated by an alphanumeric marking in the margin at the left of the text. Following this, the Samaritans separated themselves and restricted their canon to the first five books of Moses using their own alphabet. In this way the manuscripts they handed down remained independent of the history which led to the massoretic text which is a matter of great interest for textual criticism. A manuscript of the Samaritan Pentateuch was found at Damascus in 1616. It is a popular copy of the original text and contains some 6000 variants. https://www.bible-history.com/samaritans/samaritansthe_samaritan_pentateuch.htm

Early Translations of the Bible

The Septuagint Latin Vulgate John Wycliffe Bible Gutenberg Bible William Tyndale Coverdale Bible The Mathew Bible The Great Bible Geneva Bible Douay-Rheims Bible King James Bible

Southern Theory (Mount Sinai)

The Southern Theory places Mount Sinai on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. This theory takes into consideration the general direction of the movement of the nation after leaving Egypt. The Lord lead Israel from Ramses to Succoth, then from Succoth to Ethamon the outskirts of the wilderness of Shur in the northwest of the Sinai Peninsula. It is also worth noting that Christian tradition dating back to the fourth century AD has associated Jebel Musa or Mount Horeb with the same Mount Sinai where Moses received the covenant. Whichever of these three views the interpreter holds, dogmatism should be avoided since new archaeological discoveries are constantly being made adding new light to the subject.

Victory Stele of Tel Dan

The Tel Dan inscription, or "House of David" inscription, was discovered in 1993 at the site of Tel Dan in northern Israel in an excavation directed by Israeli archaeologist Avraham Biran. The broken and fragmentary inscription commemorates the victory of an Aramean king over his two southern neighbors: the "king of Israel" and the "king of the House of David." In the carefully incised text written in neat Aramaic characters, the Aramean king boasts that he, under the divine guidance of the god Hadad, vanquished several thousand Israelite and Judahite horsemen and charioteers before personally dispatching both of his royal opponents. Unfortunately, the recovered fragments of the "House of David" inscription do not preserve the names of the specific kings involved in this brutal encounter, but most scholars believe the stela recounts a campaign of Hazael of Damascus in which he defeated both Jehoram of Israel and Ahaziah of Judah.

The Tabernacle Worship

The Veil: Separated the holy place from the most holy place. Bronze Altar: Where animal sacrifices were offered, also illustrated the divide between God and man. Single doorway: Indicates that there is only one way into God's presence. Description of the priesthood: Explained how certain elements were necessary before any person could approach God. The Laver: Communicated that a person must be cleansed both physically and spiritually before approaching God. Altar of Incense: Helped people understand the importance of worship and prayer. Annual Half-Shekel tax: Payment for the purpose of supporting the tabernacle activity reminded the people that worship of Yahweh was obligatory rather than voluntary. Concluding Exhortation to keep the Sabbath: This connected the tabernacle description to the Mosaic covenant. God gave Moses the covenant tablets at the conclusion of His tabernacle instructions. It is the fifth book out of five of the Torah, or law.

Patriarchal Period: Abraham, Isaaac and Jacob (Middle Bronze Age)

The archaeological correlation found for this period exist in the written codes, tablets and texts from the surrounding and local areas listed in the bible. This includes the Code of Hammurabi, Egyptian and Hittite texts. Thousand of clay tablets exist from the Amorite city of Mari (Tel Hariri), Nuzi (city of the biblical Horites), Tel Leilan, and Alalakh. In addition, the Syrian site of Ebla (Tel Mardikh) has offered some comparative material in the form of law codes, legal and social contracts and religious texts. Comparisons between these texts and the bible show them that the proper names recorded in this period are the same or similar. Many have the same theophoric elements (addition of words for God, such as ya, or 'el, seen in Ya'acob/Jacob and Rachel) as those appearing in the patriarchal narratives. As names tend to be unique to given periods, they help confirm the chronology of the patriarchs. The local customs that governed the patriarchs social behavior were based on the local customs of the time period. Thing includes specific inheritance laws reflected in the law code of Lipit-Ishtar (1870 BC). The description of seminomadic lifestyles described by the patriarchs give evidence for a geographical migration pattern. This can be seen on the tomb mural of Beni-Hasan (Egyptian) dating to around 1890 BC (Patriarchal age). It portrays a parade of 37 Asiatics from the region of Shut (includes the area of Sinai and southern Canaan) led by Abishai (their chief) coming to trade with the Egyptians. This confirms the appearance of people like the biblical patriarchs, while corroborating that people from the area of Canaan came to Egypt during the general time and in the same manner as Abraham and Sarah. This helps substantiate the historical accuracy of the bible.

Naturalistic Evolutionary Hypothesis

The central argument of Darwin's theory of evolution starts with the existence of hereditary variation. Experience with animal and plant breeding had demonstrated to Darwin that variations can be developed that are "useful to man." So, he reasoned, variations must occur in nature that are favourable or useful in some way to the organism itself in the struggle for existence. Favourable variations are ones that increase chances for survival and procreation. Those advantageous variations are preserved and multiplied from generation to generation at the expense of less-advantageous ones. The theory of biological evolution is not a modern idea as is often supposed. Organic evolution was first taught by the Greeks at least as early as the 7th century BC. Greek philosophers probably borrowed and adapted their evolutionary ideas from the Hindus, who believed that souls transformed from one animal to another until they reached a perfection state called nirvana. Charles Darwin allegedly made no contributions to the development of the theory of evolution by natural selection, but simply helped to popularize it. Evolutionists today argue that evolution is a modern idea (i.e. a product of scientific research), in part as an effort to lend credibility to their worldview.

Parallelism

The essential characteristic of Hebrew poetry is parallelism. Parallelism is the practice of balancing one thought or phrase by a corresponding thought or phrase containing approximately the same number of words or a correspondence of ideas. Although translation can lose some of the significance of parallelism, modern English translations seek to retain as much parallelism as possible by arranging each verse in two or three poetic lines instead of a flowing prose sentence. In our language, parallelism is the repetition of certain sentence parts for rhetorical effect. English uses parallelism quite often, as in the proverb "like father, like son." A. A. Milne's words, "You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think," also exhibit parallelism in their three clauses. In the Hebrew language of the Old Testament, parallelism goes beyond simple grammatical form to include repetition of thought.

Narrative Genre

The most common genre in the bible, several books are purely composed of this type. They include: Exodus, Numbers, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Isaiah, Job. Others include it, such as Ruth, Esther and Jonah.

Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III

The most complete Assyrian obelisk yet discovered, the Black Obelisk is decorated with cuneiform inscriptions and reliefs recording military campaigns and other triumphs, including payment of tribute by King Jehu of Israel (reigned 842-815).

Tomb Mural of Beni-Hasan

The necropolis of Beni Hasan in central Egypt contains a wealth of archaeological treasures, including 29 tombs dating to the around the 20th century BC. Bible experts, however, are particularly interested in a set of tomb paintings uncovered by British archaeologists in the early 20th century. The murals, which at first glance appear to show scenes of everyday life in ancient Egyptian, may be some of the earliest known depictions of ancient Israelites. This mural portrays a seminomadic lifestyle as it was described by the patriarchal narratives. It also confirms the frequent migration patterns between the lands of Canaan and Egypt. The portrait shows a parade of 37 Asiatics from the region of Shut, (which includes the area of Sinai and southern Canaan) led by Abishai (their chief). This discovery not only reveals the appearance of people like the biblical patriarchs. But it also confirms that people from the area of Canaan came to Egypt during the general time and in the same manner as Abraham, Sarah, Jacob and his sons, and Joseph. https://www.express.co.uk/news/science/1314086/Bible-archaeology-news-ancient-Egypt-tomb-Beni-Hasan-Aamu-Israelites-Bible-patriarchs

Penitential Psalms

The psalmist confesses his sin and prays for the Lord's forgiveness and restoration. Psalm 38 is a prime example of this. Psalm 51 is David's own prayer of confession after his adultery with Bathsheba.

Royal Psalms

The royal psalms are prayers that celebrate the special relationship between the Lord and the house of the Davidic King. Psalm 20 is a prayer for the preparation of battle. 21 is a song of thanksgiving for answered prayers after a triumphant return from fighting. 45 is the kings wedding day prayer. 72 is a coronation prayers for a new king.

Suzerain Vassal Treaty

The statement "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" is often printed on plaques that adorn homes of Christians today. It is an affirmation of the family's commitment to serve the Lord. God first made a covenant with Israel at Sinai. He explained what He required, and the people said they would do it. This type of covenant was common among vassals and suzerains at the time. The suzerain promised to protect and provide for the vassals, and the vassals would conduct themselves in such a way that they would reflect well on the suzerain. If the vassals rebelled, the suzerain would turn against them and punish them. At Sinai, the suzerain is not a human king but God himself. God told Israel what He expected of them (Exodus 20—23), and then the people committed to do it (Exodus 24).

Optimal Equivalence

The term conveys a commitment to both "formal equivalence" (which recognizes the importance of the form of the original language text—that is, the words used and the grammatical and rhetorical structures) and "functional equivalence" (which recognizes the importance of conveying the original message and intent in natural English readily understood by modern readers). Some claim the Christian Standard Bible is too literal (formal equivalence), and some say it is too free (dynamic equivalence). This likely means that, for the most part, the translators of the CSB succeeded in their goal of optimal equivalence. In a handful of instances, the CSB has opted for a more gender-neutral rendering of some biblical wording (e.g., replacing man with everyone in Romans 3:4).

Theistic Evolution

Theistic evolution is one of three major origin-of-life worldviews, the other two being atheistic evolution (also commonly known as Darwinian evolution and naturalistic evolution) and special creation. Versions of theistic evolution come somewhere between one of two extremes. One view is close to deism, which says God allows only natural processes to influence the development of life. The other assumes that God constantly used miraculous intervention to guide evolution.

Ascent Psalms

These are songs of praise the people sang as they made pilgrimage to Jerusalem. They are sometimes called Hallel psalms and Psalms 120-134 are prime examples of them.

Poetry Genre

These include books of rhythmic prose, parallelism, and metaphor, such as Song of Solomon, Lamentations and Psalms. We know that many of the psalms were written by David, himself a musician, or David's worship leader, Asaph. Because poetry does not translate easily, we lose some of the musical "flow" in English. Nevertheless, we find a similar use of idiom, comparison and refrain in this genre as we find in modern music. Solomon also composed eighteen Psalms.

One-Volume Commentary (Bible study)

This will usually contain introductory info on each book, similarly to a Bible handbook, but typically with more detail. It's real strength lies in it's concise commentary on each chapter of each bible. While it doesn't offer an in depth discussion, it will provide essential points of observations, interpretation, and application. For example, if you want to complete a study of Prov 2:1-22 and want to make sure you have correctly understood the role of wisdom in the text, this will ensure a suitable interpretation attempt is made. Therefore, she specializes in brevity, will not explore nuances and interpretive opinions.

Technical/Academic Commentaries

Typically written by Biblical scholars and is intended for a more academic audience. They focus on linguistic and grammatical details, cultural features, historical background, and other critical issues. They will provide various translation options and interpretive options while making reference to original Greek and Hebrew as necessary. The reader will, consequently, become aware of any issues that would present a difficulty. These types of commentaries are typically not what the average churchgoer would enjoy, understand or find easy. A lack of theological training will make this tool inaccessible.

How does the Old Testament provide guidance?

Vertically: The OT law guided the people of Israel on the proper way to build a relationship with God and how they worshiped him. Horizontally: OT law governed the way people were to build a relationship with each other.

Wisdom Psalms

Wisdom psalms teach the value of living a godly life by focusing on the central importance of the law of God and the contrasting ways of the righteous and the wicked. Psalm 1 represents this type of song and provides an introductory orientation to the entire Psalter. Psalm 119 in an extended praise in an acrostic format of the excellence of God's law. These songs often teach practical lessons about everyday living, as in Psalm 49, which reflects the deceptiveness of riches in light of the brevity of life.

Staircase Parallelism

Words from the previous line are repeated and added to in the next line like a step progression. Psalm 29:1-2 1 Ascribe to the Lord, you heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. 2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his[a] holiness.

David

Name: "Beloved" Book Found: 1-2 Samuel. 1 Kings, 1 Chronicles Writings: Psalms Setting: United Kingdom of Israel. Role: King of the United Kingdom of Israel Rule: 1011-971 BC Events: War against the Philistines Relations: Jesse (Father), Michal (wife), Jonathan, Bathsheba (wife), Solomon (Son), Saul( Father-in-law), Ahinoam (wife), Abigail (wife) Tribe: Judah Key figures: Saul, Goliath, Samuel Though there are critics who question the existence of David, there is no doubt that he is a strong feature in Jewish culture and history. A shepherd from the tribe of Judah, he was anointed by Samuel as God's chosen king of Israel. This became the catalyst which put him in the roles of war hero, commander, exile, and finally, King of Israel. Unlike Saul, who was the people's choice and was selected based on his good looks, David displayed an amazing amount of courage, morality and intelligence. This contrast is highlighted by how they reacted to their selection; Saul hid in some baggage while David bravely marched out against a giant without armor and only a slingshot. David was the eighth and youngest son and worked as a shepherd for his father Jesse of the tribe of Judah during the reign of king Saul. At this time, the Philistines and Israelites were in open conflict with each other. Davids first display of leadership and courage was when he went out as Israel's champion against the giant Philistine, Goliath. He slew Goliath with one stone, and he was elevated to the position of commander of Saul's troops and also formed a close friendship with the king's son Jonathan. David's success in battle and growing popularity among the people soon earned Saul's jealousy, especially as the Spirit of the Lord had departed from him. He is depicted as demonically tormented, and once tried to kill David by throwing a spear at him. Later, David married Saul's daughter Michal after providing the bounty of 100 Philistine foreskins. When the king tried to kill the shepherd again, Jonathan hid him till his father agreed not to kill David. This didn't last long and Michal helped her husband flee to Samuel in Ramah and eventually took shelter in Moab with the king there. The priest Ahimelech of Nob provided David with weapons, and when Saul heard of this, he had 85 of the city's priests killed. During his exile, David gained the support of 600 men who traveled city to city with him. Once, when in Ein Gedim he crept upon Saul while he slept in a cave. Rather than kill him, the son of Jesse cut a pieces off of the kings robe. After Saul awoke, he confronted him. The king admitted that David would one day succeed him, but asked David to spare his decedents, which he agreed to. However, this did not stop Saul's pursuit. Eventually, David found himself in the service of the Philistine king of Gath, Aschish, who entrusted him with the control of the city Ziklag. With his band of men, he raided nomad cities that had been harassing the Jews and used the loot to entice the leaders of Judah to support him. Meanwhile, both Jonathan and Saul had died in battle against the Amalekites at Mt. Gilboa. Saul had asked his shield bearer to kill him in an assisted suicide. David was appointed as king soon after even though Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, took over as King of Israel. He didn't make it past two years and thanks to inter-familial political intrigue, he was killed and the issue over who rules Israel was settled. David first captured what is now called the City of David in Jerusalem. He fortified it and built a palace. After repelling the Philistines out of Bethlehem, he brought the arc of the covenant to the Jerusalem. He reestablished Israel's borders and established military and civilian administrations to maintain the regions. The country had been made safe. Despite his many political and military victories, David struggled in his personal life. He took another man's wife named Bathsheba after he sent her husband out to die in battle. Nathan the prophet confronted him, and the first child of the couple died as a result of this sin. His son Amnon raped Tamar, Amnon's half sister. His others son, Absalom then killed the rapist before he fled and began to make plans to rebel against his father by gaining support from Hebron. David fled the city and through some clever spywork, he was able to return after learning of his sons plans. Absalom and his 20,000 men were killed. He also put down Sheba son of Bichri's rebellion. Before he died, David made Solomon his heir after 40 years of rule. He was buried in the city of David.

Habbakuk

Name: "Embrace" Author: Habakkuk Covers: Date: 620-605 BC Setting: Reign of: Jehoiakim Recipients: Judah Concerning/Message: Theme: Key Word: Key Figures: Nabopolassar, Nebuchadnezzar Habakkuk seems to have prophesied just prior to the first invasion when Egypt was still in control. He was also a contemporary of Jeremiah, Zephaniah, Daniel and Ezekiel. Even during the time of judgment, the Lord gave his people a prophetic voice and reminded them that they could, even then, turn to Him in repentance. Habakkuk's message is personal, expressing laments in his dialogue with God over His justice and his way of using the Babylonians to punish Judah. God does not rebuke him, but displays an openness to personal dialogue so long as the questioner is willing to wait and listen for Him to speak. The Babylonians declared their independence from the Assyrians under Nabopolassar in 626 BC and captured the cities of Asher and Nineveh in 612 BC. They then finished them off in battle at Haran in 609 BC. Judah was then left under Egyptian control with Jehoiakim as a puppet king. At the battle of Carchemish in 605, Nebuchadnezzar defeated the Egyptians before going south and taking the first wave of exiles (including Daniel) out of Judah in that same year. Outline: 1. Faith Tested (1:1-17) The first question Habakkuk poses is: why does the Lord not punish injustice in Judah (1:1-4)? God often delays judgment to offer mercy, but the prophet believed His inactivity made the problem of injustice worse. Why did the Lord not stop the evil people from covenant infidelity and injustice? God replied that he was not ignoring Habakkuk or the problems infesting Judah, but was in fact answering his prayers in a manner beyond his understanding. He was raising up the Babylonians (Chaldeans) to punish the sins of Judah. 2. Faith Taught (2:1-20) The second question: how can God use the Babylonians as punishment ? How could a God, too holy to even look upon evil, use the Chaldeans when they were even more wicked and violent than Judah?The Lord responded that His purposes were beyond understanding and could not be reduced to formulas used to determine who was most deserving of judgment. He would punish sinners, but in His own time and way. Though He delayed judgment, 2:6-20 guaranteed the final destruction of the Babylonian Empire; they would now experience the violence they inflicted on others in retribution for their crimes. 3. Faith Triumphant (3:1-19) The third question was: will the Lord have mercy? Habakkuk concluded with a prayer for deliverance and a confession of trust that God would do what is right in the midst of Judah's crisis. In 3:16-19, the prophet affirmed that he would rejoice in the Lord and await His deliverance even in Judah's darkest hour and was confident that judgment would turn to salvation.

Shemaiah (prophet)

A minor prophet who is mentioned during the reign of Rehoboam (928-911 BC) of Jerusalem and appears in 2 Chronicles 12. 12 After Rehoboam's position as king was established and he had become strong, he and all Israel[a] with him abandoned the law of the Lord. 5 Then the prophet Shemaiah came to Rehoboam and to the leaders of Judah who had assembled in Jerusalem for fear of Shishak, and he said to them, "This is what the Lord says, 'You have abandoned me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.'" 6 The leaders of Israel and the king humbled themselves and said, "The Lord is just." 7 When the Lord saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the Lord came to Shemaiah: "Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak. 8 They will, however, become subject to him, so that they may learn the difference between serving me and serving the kings of other lands."

Antiochus IV Epiphanes

Antiochus IV Epiphanes (Greek: God Manifest) also called Antiochus Epimanes (The Mad) was born in modern day Tabae, Iran and was the Seleucid king of the Hellenistic Syrian kingdom and reigned from 175-164 BC. While he was known for encouraging of Greek culture and institutions, he was also known for his attempts to suppress Judaism which brought about the wars of the Maccabees. The Jews had autonomy under their high priest, but there were the orthodox Hasideans (Pious Ones) and a second group that preferred Hellenistic inclusion. Antiochus obviously preferred the alternative group. He gave financial support to this group and permitted the high priest of the time, Jason, to build a gymnasium in Jerusalem and introduce the Greek model of education to the youth in 172 BC. After a larger investment, he appointed his own high priest, Menelaus, in place of Jason. In 169, while Antiochus was in Egypt, Jason conquered Jerusalem, except for the citadel, and killed the devotees of Menelaus. The reaction was a violent recapture of the city and an enforcement of Hellenization with the privileges of the city revoked and under permanent occupation of Syrian soldiers. All Jewish rites were forbidden under pain of death and an altar to Zeus Olympios was erected in the Temple. In addition, sacrifices were to be made at the feet of an idol made in the image of the king. Judas Maccabeus began operating with guerrilla warfare tactics with the support of the enraged Hasideans. Managing to achieve incredible military victories, especially considering Antiochus' previous military victories and his overall might, the Jews reclaimed and reconsecrated the Temple. Antiochus died on 164 at Tabe in Persis. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Antiochus-IV-Epiphanes

Daniel's writing on the wall (Daniel 5)

Belshazzar was serving as a co-regent with his father Nabonidus from 553-539 BC and were the last kings of the Babylonian Empire. On October 12, 539 BC Babylon fell to the Medes and the Persians. On that same evening a hand written message appeared on the plaster wall where a banquet was being held appeared reading: MENE numbered MENE numbered TEKEL weighed PERES divided. The king couldn't find anyone to read or explain the message until Amytis (queen mother and widow of Nebuchadnezzar) suggested they call for Daniel. He weighed the message as: God had numbered the kingdom of the Babylonians, weighed it on the scales of justice, found it lacking, and would divide it and give it to the Medes and Persians. Babylon fell that same night.

Jephthah

Book Found: Judges 10-11 Judged: Ammonites Relations: Gilead (father), daughter Key figures: "gang of scoundrels" Tribe: Gilead Traits: Son of a prostitute, outcasts Israel once again found itself in trouble due to its inability to abstain from worshiping the idols of other nations. Instead of sending a judge directly however, God made his displeasure with Israels repeated transgressions in obedience. "When the Egyptians, the Amorites, the Ammonites, the Philistines, the Sidonians, the Amalekites and the Maonites oppressed you and you cried to me for help, did I not save you from their hands? But you have forsaken me and served other gods, so I will no longer save you. Go and cry out to the gods you have chosen. Let them save you when you are in trouble!" (Judges 10:11-14) The Israelites finally made the first step in rectifying their relationship with God and destroyed all of their Idols. The Lords response was to send Jephthah. Jephthah was, undoubtedly, Israel's last choice for a judge. The son of a prostitute, he was drive out of Gilead by his legitimate half brothers to Tob where he led a "gang of scoundrels". When Israel began it's fight with the Ammonites, they sought out Jephthah, who by this time was a mighty warrior. They offered to make him the head of Gilead if he agreed to lead them. He agreed. Jephthah began by negotiating with the Ammonite king and attempting to resolve the matter peacefully. When the leader refused, Israel began driving his people out of the land. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah and he made a presumptive and unnecessary vow: "If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord's, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering" (Judges 11:30-31). The Ammonites fell, but when Jephthah returned home, his daughter was the first thing out of his house. There is some debate as to whether he sacrificed his daughter or if she entered into a life of chastity. However, she was allowed time to mourn:"After the two months, she returned to her father, and he did to her as he had vowed." —Judges 11:39 Jephthah led Israel for six years and was buried in Gilead.

Jair

Book Found: Judges 10:3-5 Judged: N/A Tribe: Gileadite The bible only gives three verses to this judge, so not much is known about him. "He was followed by Jair of Gilead, who led Israel twenty-two years. He had thirty sons, who rode thirty donkeys. They controlled thirty towns in Gilead, which to this day are called Havvoth Jair. When Jair died, he was buried in Kamon." (Judges 10:3-5)

Ibzan

Book Found: Judges 12:8-10. Judged: N/A Relations: 30 sons and 30 daughters Tribe: Asher Not much is known about Ibzan. He is only mentioned in Judges 12:8-10: "8 After him, Ibzan of Bethlehem led Israel. 9 He had thirty sons and thirty daughters. He gave his daughters away in marriage to those outside his clan, and for his sons he brought in thirty young women as wives from outside his clan. Ibzan led Israel seven years. 10 Then Ibzan died and was buried in Bethlehem."

Shamgar

Book Found: Judges 3:31 Judged: Philistines Events: Oxgoad warfare Relations: Anath (father) This judge's accomplishments appear in only one verse of the bible. "After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad. He too saved Israel" (Judges 3:31). He is mentioned in one other verse which makes him a contemporary of Jael and Deborah. " In the days of Shamgar of Anath i nthe days of Jael, the highways were abandoned; travelers took to winding paths" (Judges 5:6). However, while the bible states that he saved Israel, it does not detail the length of peace his actions brought.

Othniel

Book Found: Judges 3:7-11, Judges 1:11-13, Joshua 15:15-17, Setting: Israel Judged: Cushites (Mesopotamians), King Cushan-Risathaim Events: Conquered Kiriath Sepher (Debir) Relations: Caleb (one of the 12 spies, brother or nephew), Achsah (wife). The first judge of Israel who freed his country from the domination of the Mesopotamian king Cushan-Risathamian who oppressed them for eight years. Joshua and Judges tell us that Caleb, Othniel's uncle or brother, promised to give his daughter, Achsah, in marriage to whoever conquered Kiriath Sepher (Debit). Othniel took it and Caleb kept his word. After, the Jews enjoyed peace for forty years until Othniel's death.

Omri

Book: 1 Kings 6:15-28 Role: King of Israel Rule: 885-874 Setting: Samaria, Northern Israel Events: Conqueror of Moab, alliance with Tyre Relatives: Ahab (Son), Jezebel (Daughter in Law) Omri is mentioned only briefly in the bible. However he is considered a dynamic and powerful political and military figure in Israel's history. He formed alliances with Tyre while moving the capital of Israel from Tirzah to Samaria. Nonetheless, some of his other policies were questionable and set the stage for later issues to form once his son Ahab took office. His tolerance of the Canaanite religions were enacted to try and relieve some of the tension between Canaan and Israel. However, this might have lain the foundations for Jezebel's later actions. His alliance to Tyre likely further exacerbated the eventual problem. Omri succeeded in conquering Moab and bringing about a period of stability. Later he managed to stabilize the region following a period of riots. Further evidence of his strategic capabilities was his purchasing the hill of Samaria. At the time, this mound was isolated, connected to the surrounding hill country only by a saddle to the east and was surrounded by the fertile crescent. Omri turned this hill into a fortress which withstood several sieges over the course of 150 years. The Assyrians were only able to capture it in 725-722 BC, and it helped control the trade routes of the North, East and West to the valley of Esdraelon. Samaria was the property of the Kings of Israel and not subjected to the tribes or peoples of the region. Ahab inherited his fathers success, however he also inherited the foundation which contributed to his later cultural upheavals. External biblical resources consider Omri to be a King of great strength. However the bible considers him a condemned propagator to foreign beliefs which ushered in the turmoil that was Jezebel, his daughter-in-law. https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/ahab https://www.britannica.com/biography/Omri

Ahaz

Book: 2 Kings 16:1-20 Role: King of Judah Rule: 732-716 Setting: Assyrian Empire Prophet: Isaiah, Micah Events: Israeli and Syrian Invasion, subjugation of Judah Relatives: Hezekiah (son) Key Figures: Isaiah, Sennacherib (king of Assyria), Pekah (king of Israel), Rezin (King of Syria) Ahaz's kingdom was invaded by Pekah, king of Israel, and Rezin the king of Syria. Rather than listen to the counsel of Isaiah, who told him that God would not stand for the invasion. However, Ahaz made an alliance with Assyria and requested help in repelling the invaders. However, heavy tributes were exacted and worship of the Assyrian gods was introduced into the temple in Jerusalem. This was only repealed under his son Hezekiah.

Hezekiah

Book: 2 Kings 18:1-20:21 Role: King of Judah Rule: 716-687 BC Setting: Judah Prophet: Isaiah, Micah Events: Attempted siege of the city of Jerusalem, religious reforms. Relatives: Ahaz (father) Key Figures: Isaiah, Sennacherib (King of Assyrian) Hezekiah is one of the reformer kings of Jerusalem who reaffirmed his dedication to Yahweh. (2 Kings 18:4) "He removed the high places, smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it. He renewed the practice of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread." This was when Assyria was consolidating power under Sargon II (721-705 BC) and Sennacherib (705-681 BC) and when rebellions were being put down. Hezekiah angered the prophet Isaiah by appealing to Egypt to halt the encroaching Assyrian invasion citing their lack of faith in God. Relying on military aid or defense was a useless strategy. This led to him rejecting attempts to form an alliance with Babylon. One impressive feat of engineering was a tunnel of 533 metres long and designed to access the Gihon Spring. Hezekiah consulted with his officers and considered stopping the flow of water outside the city to withhold resources from the Assyrian army. This tunnel still exists today and is over 2700 years old. Eventually, Sennacherib overran Judah in 701 and took 46 of its walled cities before placing control of the conquered territories under the control of neighboring states. Hezekiah attempted to appease the Assyrians by paying tribute to them in gold and silver. However, as the invaders were about to attack the city, a plague decimated their army. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Hezekiah

Josiah

Book: 2 Kings 21:26-23:30, Role: King of Judah Rule: 640-608 Setting: Judah, current and post Assyrian captivity. Prophet: Jeremiah, Zephaniah, Huldah Events: Reformation of an independent Judah after Assyrian Captivity. Relatives: Amon (father), Manasseh (grandfather) Key Figures: Ashurbanipal (Assyrian (Mesopotamian) Emperor) (2 Kings 23:25) Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses. King Josiah came to the throne of Judah when he was eight years old after the assassination of his father Amon. This was during the time of the Assyrian Empire and its capture of Israel, which lasted from atound 722-614 BC. After the death of the Assyrian Emperor Ashurbanipal (668-627 BC), Assyria couldn't maintain it's authority through strength and it's capital Ashur fell to the Medes in 614 BC. In 621 BC, Josiah began his reformation acts to reestablish the nations covenant to God and it's national identity. The temple in in Jerusalem was purged of foreign cults and practices and it was rededicated to the worship of Yahweh. In his eighteenth year the "Book of the Law" was found in the temple by Hilkiah the priest. Then Josiah gathered the elders of both Judah and Jerusalem and renewed the covenant of the Lord. After this he celebrated the Passover. (2 Chronicles 34:29-33; 35:1-18) Jerusalem also experienced greater development as new walls were built on the western slope and new industrial quarters and commercial centers were constructed. Additional settlements were constructed and Josiah's territory expanded northward.

Amos' Eight Oracles

Each Oracle given begins with, "for three sins..., even for four, I will not turn back my wrath" and God is portrayed as a roaring lion. Each of these oracles were against eight nations, six of them foreign as well as Judah and Israel. Damascus (1:3-5): "they ripped through Gilead like threshing boards with iron teeth." The house of Hazael would be set on fire and it would devour the stronghold of Ben-hadad. The gate bars of Damascus would be broken and then inhabitants of the Valley of Aven would be cut off and the one who "holds the scepter from Beth-eden" and the people of Aram will go into exile in Kir. Gaza (1:6-8): "Deported a whole community and sold them to Edom." The wall of Gaza would be set on fire which would devour its strongholds. The inhabitants of Ashdod and "the one who holds the scepter from Ashkelon" would be cut off. Tyre (1:9-10): Sold Israel into slavery to Edom after taking them as captives. Once again, their strongholds would be set on fire and crumble. Edomites (1:11-12): "He chased his treaty partner with a sword, he wiped out his allies." They also partook in with the Ammonites in their slaughter. Teman and the strongholds of Bozrah would be devoured by fire. Ammon (1:13-15): "they ripped open Gilead's pregnant women, so they could expand their territory. The inhabitants and their king would go into exile after their strongholds were devoured by fire and the wall of Rabbah fell. Moabites (2:1-3): These people desecrated the royal tomb of the king of Edom and burned his bones as a sign of contempt. It's punishment is described as a fire which shall devour its strongholds of Kerioth, and it shall die amid uproar, shouting and the sound of the trumpet. God will cut off the ruler and the officials with him. Judah (2:4-5): Both Israel and Judah were guilty unfaithfulness towards Yahweh. For this sin, the Lord would set fire to the strongholds of Jerusalem and they would be devoured. Israel (2:6-16): Guilty of covenant unfaithfulness and the oppression of justice and the needy. Essentially, the oracle describes the conditions of the siege and exile carried out by Babylon.

Edom

Edom was the land which Esau's descendants had settled and which bordered Israel. The two groups had as much of a tumultuous relationship as the two founders had with each other.

Ezekiel: Judgment against Egypt (Ezekiel 29:2-32:2)

Egypt had proved to be an issue to the Israelites before the Babylonian invasion. A military alliance had been made between the two and often Egyptian aid never came. Ezekiel delivered a series or oracles against the nations for this treachery. Describing the Pharaoh as a crocodile, or "monster" from the Nile River, the prophet began his illustration. The Lord would catch him in His net, put hooks in his jaws and cast him into an open field to be consumed by the birds of the air.

Second vision of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 8-11).

Ezekiel saw the glory of the Lord depart from Jerusalem, removing his protective presence because the people defiled the temple with idolatry and wickedness.

Ahijah (Prophet)

Found in 1 Kings 11:29, 14:2, 14:18, 9:29 and 2 Chronicles 9:29. As Solomon aged, his many foreign wives turned him from the Lord and he eventually followed Ashtoreth and built a place for Chemosh, the god of Moab and Molek the god of the Ammonites. Therefore Yahweh resolved to take the kingdom from him and give it to someone else and only leave one tribe for Jerusalem. At this point, rebellion began and God raised up Jeroboam, who Ahijah proclaimed the ruler of ten of Israel's twelve tribes, and Hadad the Edomite and Rezon who was Solomon's adversary. 26 Also, Jeroboam son of Nebat rebelled against the king. He was one of Solomon's officials, an Ephraimite from Zeredah, and his mother was a widow named Zeruah. 27 Here is the account of how he rebelled against the king: Solomon had built the terraces[a] and had filled in the gap in the wall of the city of David his father. 28 Now Jeroboam was a man of standing, and when Solomon saw how well the young man did his work, he put him in charge of the whole labor force of the tribes of Joseph. 29 About that time Jeroboam was going out of Jerusalem, and Ahijah the prophet of Shiloh met him on the way, wearing a new cloak. The two of them were alone out in the country, 30 and Ahijah took hold of the new cloak he was wearing and tore it into twelve pieces. 31 Then he said to Jeroboam, "Take ten pieces for yourself, for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'See, I am going to tear the kingdom out of Solomon's hand and give you ten tribes. 32 But for the sake of my servant David and the city of Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, he will have one tribe. 33 I will do this because they have[b] forsaken me and worshiped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the god of the Moabites, and Molek the god of the Ammonites, and have not walked in obedience to me, nor done what is right in my eyes, nor kept my decrees and laws as David, Solomon's father, did. 34 "'But I will not take the whole kingdom out of Solomon's hand; I have made him ruler all the days of his life for the sake of David my servant, whom I chose and who obeyed my commands and decrees. 35 I will take the kingdom from his son's hands and give you ten tribes. 36 I will give one tribe to his son so that David my servant may always have a lamp before me in Jerusalem, the city where I chose to put my Name. 37 However, as for you, I will take you, and you will rule over all that your heart desires; you will be king over Israel. 38 If you do whatever I command you and walk in obedience to me and do what is right in my eyes by obeying my decrees and commands, as David my servant did, I will be with you. I will build you a dynasty as enduring as the one I built for David and will give Israel to you. 39 I will humble David's descendants because of this, but not forever.'"

Nathan

Found in 1 Kings, 2 Chronicles and Psalms, Nathan served during king Davids reign. One of his notable appearances was concerning when David sinned with Bathsheba. He also appeared when Adonijah attempted to usurp the throne from his father. He also anointed Solomon as Davids successor.

Elisha (prophet)

Found in 1-2 Kings, Elisha was Elijah's successor and both served during the time of the dynasty Omri, who was in alliance with Phoenicia. This was when king Ahab was in power in Samaria and his wife Jezebel was trying to introduce Baal worship in Israel. Elisha then recruited Jehu to revolt against Ahab and succeed him while Elijah anointed him.

Azariah (Prophet)

Found in 2 Chronicles 15, Azariah was the son of Oded and a prophet who spoke to King Asa of Judah. His reign is remembered for its spiritual reforms and he likely served from 913-910 BC or 873-869 BC. "Listen to me, Asa and all Judah and Benjamin. The Lord is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. 3 For a long time Israel was without the true God, without a priest to teach and without the law. 4 But in their distress they turned to the Lord, the God of Israel, and sought him, and he was found by them. 5 In those days it was not safe to travel about, for all the inhabitants of the lands were in great turmoil. 6 One nation was being crushed by another and one city by another, because God was troubling them with every kind of distress. 7 But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." King Asa then removed all the idols from Judah and repaired the altar of the Lord. After, he assembled all of Judah and Benjamin in Jerusalem where sacrifices to God were made and: 13 All who would not seek the Lord, the God of Israel, were to be put to death, whether small or great, man or woman. 14 They took an oath to the Lord with loud acclamation, with shouting and with trumpets and horns. 15 All Judah rejoiced about the oath because they had sworn it wholeheartedly. They sought God eagerly, and he was found by them. So the Lord gave them rest on every side. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Chronicles+15&version=NIV

Jahaziel

Found in 2 Chronicles, Jahaziel served during the time of Jehoshaphat when the Ammonites waged war against him. 14 Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite and descendant of Asaph, as he stood in the assembly. 15 He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. 16 Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. 17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.'"

Samaria (North Kingdom) Kings List

Jeroboam I: 931-910, Prophet: Ahijah Nadab: 910-909 Baasha: 909-886, Prophet: Jehu Elah: 886-885 Zimri: 885 Omri: 885-874 Ahab: 874-853, Prophet: Elijah, Elisha Ahaziah: 853-852, Prophet: Elijah, Elisha Joram: 852-841, Prophet: Elisha Jehu: 841-814, Prophet: Elisha Jehoahaz: 814-798, Prophet: Elisha Jehoash: 798-782, Prophet: Elisha Jeroboam II: 793-753, Prophet: Jonah, Amos Zechariah: 753-752, Prophet: Hosea Shallum: 752, Prophet: Hosea Menahem: 752-742, Prophet: Hosea Pekahiah: 742-740, Prophet: Hosea Pekah: 752-732, Prophet: Hosea, Obed Hoshea: 732-722, Prophet: Hosea

Exilic Rulers List (Neo-Babylonian Empire, Babylonian Captivity)

Nabopolassar: (630-605 B.C.) Nebuchadnezzar: II (605-561 B.C.) Awil-Marduk: (561-560 B.C.) Nergal-shar-usur: (559-555 B.C.) Nabonidus: (555-539 B.C. co-regent with Belshazzar, son) Belshazzar: (550-539 B.C.co-ruler with Nabonidus, father)

Abdon

Name: "Formed on the root" Book Found: Judges 12:14-15 Judged: N/A Relations: 40 sons, 30 grandsons. Tribe: Ephraim An obscure prophet, the bible has two verses about him. "He had forty sons and thirty grandsons, who rode on seventy donkeys. He led Israel eight years. Then Abdon son of Hillel died and was buried at Pirathon in Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites." —Judges 12:14-15

Daniel

Name: "God is my Judge", Belteshazzar (Babylonian name) Author: Daniel Date: 605-535 Setting: Babylonian empire, Reign of: Nebuchadnezzar II, Belshazzar, Nabodnidus, Cyrus the Great Prophesied to Recipients: Jews and Gentiles Theme: God's sovereignty over the people of Israel and the nations of the world. Items of interest: Nabonidus Chronicle Key Word: Interpretation (Aramaic: Pesjar) Key Figures: Nebuchadnezzar, Hanahiah (Shadrach), Mishael (Meshach), Azariah (Abednego), Darius of Mede, Belshazzar, Nabonidus, Cyrus the Great Intro: Daniel was a contemporary of Ezekiel and Jeremiah and was also an Intellectual Hostage of Nebuchadnezzar during the exilic time of 605 BC. This meant that he was placed in a three-year training program to learn language (Akkadian), literature (cuneiform script), and the sciences of the Babylonians. This was to prepare the hostages to enter into government service for the Babylonian Empire and even their names were changed to Babylonian ones. Outline: 1. Daniel's personal History (1:1-6:28) A. Four Hebrews (1:1-21) Early into their captivity, Daniel (Belteshazzar) and his friends Hanahiah (Shadrach), Mishael (Meshach), Azariah (Abednego) set themselves apart from other captives by requesting exemption from eating the kings food at his table. This was to uphold the covenant requirements of a kosher diet. They won favor with the guards and God and were considered "10 times better" than all the other prisoners. B. Four Empires (2:1-49) Nebuchadnezzar dreamt of a metallic statue and Daniel was able to interpret it over the courts wise men. Daniel, after a great deal of prayer, identified the various elements of the statue to represent various empires. As the various metals crumbled, so would the governments they represented and that they would eventually be replaced with the kingdom of God. C. Furnace of Fire (3:1-30) Nebuchadnezzar required his government officials to worship a golden statue. Daniel is absent from this event because he had given up his role as a provincial official to serve in the kings court as chief of the wise men. Therefore, his duties were given to Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego. Two additional names are given for this event: Nebuzaradan (Jer 39:9-13) and Neriglissar (Jer 39:3-13) and are even listed in a Babylonian text from the time. When these men refused to bow, they were thrown into a furnace, or kiln. When they did not burn they were released in concordance with the Babylonian Trial by Ordeal, which in this case, prove their innocence. D. Fate of Nebuchadnezzar (4:1-37) Nebuchadnezzar suffered another dream: a great tree was cut down and only the stump was left, wet with the dew "for seven periods of time". The king then gives personal testimony of God's powers, stating the he heard "holy ones" say "the Most High is ruler over the kingdom of men". After a period of insanity (clinical lycanthropy?), his sanity returned and he praised God. E. Fall of Babylon (5:1-30) Skipping over several monarchs, the next section deals with Belshazzar and his father Nabonidus who served in a co-regency with his son. During a banquet, a divine handwritten message appeared on the plaster wall of the palace. The queen Amytis (queen mother and widow to Nebuchadnezzar), suggested Daniel be called for. Daniel interpreted the message to say that God had numbered his kingdom, weighed it on the scales of justice, found it lacking, and would divide it and give it to the Medes and Persians. Babylon fell that same night to Cyrus the Great without a battle and Belshazzar was executed. F. Fearless Prayer (6:1-28) Darius of Mede ruled Babylon (possibly as the governor on behalf of Cyrus, might possibly be named Gubaru), and used his power to pass a law banning prayer. While Darius attempted to release the now eighty year old prophet, he was still thrown into a lions den. Protected overnight by an angel, Daniel survied the Trial by Ordeal and his innocence was proven. 2. Daniel's Prophetic Visions (7:1-12:13) A. Four Beasts (7:1-28) This second half of the book details four prophetic visions of future events directly correlating to the Jewish people. Daniel saw four huge beasts which signified various states much like the vision of the metallic statue. Each of these animals represented a specific government: Winged lion; Babylon, Bear; Medes and Persians, Four-headed Leoopard; Greece, Monster with teeth made of iron; Roman Empire. However, this vision developed further than Nebuchadnezzar's: it instead focused on the ten horns of the fourth beast and a little horn that came up afterwards. Details of a period of war involving an Antichrist figure are outlines and God is pictured as the "Ancient of Days" who judges the little horn. He then presents the kingdom to Christ and is designated as "a on of man". The Lord, in turn, shares the kingdom of God with the saints. B. Ram and Goat (8:1-27) This vision is about a coming clash between Persia and Greece where Greeks would triumph over the Persian empire. 200 years later, Alexander the Great defeated the Persians both at Issus in 333 BC and Arbela in 331 BC. After the "great horn died" in 323 BC, the horn of the goat was "broken" and the kingdom divided into four sections. One of these territories (Syria) produced a little horn, Antiochus IV Epiphanes who persecuted the Jews and desecrated the temple for "2,300 days" and was/is perceived as a type of Antichrist. C. Seventy Sevens (9:1-27) After reading Jeremiah's prophecy of seventy years captivity, Daniel prayed for the sins of his people, knowing they weren't spiritually ready for the end of their exile. The angel Gabriel revealed the prophecy of the seventy "sevens". Seventy sevens (weeks) of years, about the Jews ("your people"), and Jerusalem with Seventy times seven (490 years) would culminate in dealing up "vision and Prophecy" and "anoint the most holy place". D. Israel's Future (10:1-12:13) This final vision is dates in the "third year of Cyrus" (536/535 BC) at the end of the Babylonian Captivity. This vision focused on the Jewish people "in the last days" (10:14) and involved the Hellenistic kingdoms of 331-160 BC after Alexander the Great's empire (11:3-4) was divided. It also traced the future conflicts of the "king of the South"(Egypt) and "king of the North" (Hellenistic Syria under the Seleucids). Furthermore, it described a detailed prophecy about a "vile person" who will rule by "intrigue"(11:21-35) (believed to be Antiochus IV Epiphanese (the 'Little Horn'), but also a reference to the Antichrist). 11:40-50 deals with the Antichrists final defeat at the "time of the end". Chapter 12 closes the book with the promise of the final triumph of God's people in the future messianic era. A "time of distress" will come but those whose names are "written in the book" will "escape" . Daniel is told to seal the prophecy "until the time of the end", because he will "rest" (die), then "rise to your destiny at the end of the days". The ending promises a bodily resurrection to anticipate the participation of the eternal kingdom. Daniel further predicted the whole of the future of Israel: the return from captivity, reconstruction of the temple, conflicts, the coming Messiah and his death. The destruction of Jerusalem and the second temple, the rise of the Antichrist, time of tribulation, the triumphant return, the resurrection of Jewish saints, and the messianic kingdom.

Deborah/Barak

Name: "Honey Bee" Writings: Song of Deborah (Judges 5) Book Found: Judges 4:1-9 Judged: Canaan, King Sisera Relations: Lappidoth (husband) Key figures: Barak, Sisera Traits: Prophetess After Ehud, Israel "did evil in the eyes of the Lord" (Judges 4:1), so God handed them over to Jabin, king of Canaan. With Sisera, his commander and his army of chariots, he oppressed the Israelites for twenty years. Deborah was leading the Jews and she summoned Barak to command the military. He said he would only go if Deborah went with him, to which Deborah prophesied: "Certainly I will go with you... But because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the Lord will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman" (Judges 4:9). Barak took 10,000 soldiers and slaughtered Sisera's entire army and the commander fled. He eventually took shelter in the tent of a woman named Jael. While he slept, she drove a tent peg through his head. After Israel defeated King Jabin they enjoyed peace for forty years.

Jezebel

Name: "The Exalted one" Book: 1 Kings 16:31-21:25, 2 Kings 9:7-10 Role: Queen of Israel Rule: 874-853 Setting: Israel Prophet: Elijah, Elisha Events: Relatives: Ahab (husband), Omri (father-in-law), Athaliah (Daughter), Ethbaal (Father), Jehoram, [Joram](Son). Key Figures: Jezebel's name is so infamous her name has become a synonym associated with corruption, evil and nearly everything horrible. She is an icon of deadly women and her name is used as an insult in cultures to shame someone, usually female, believed to be doing something wrong. Therefore, she gets her very own card to explain why she is so reviled and how she earned the hatred of Israel. Jezebel's father was the priest king Ethbaal of the Sidonians. Their names suggest a strong devotion the god Baal, which was later proven. After marrying Jezebel, Ahab provided her with a temple for her to worship the foreign god in. However, it also doubled as a court for her and the merchants, artists and craftsmen of Tyre. Unfortunately, this temple and it's agency influenced the aristocracy of Israel, including it's king. Jezebel is portrayed as a strong willed zealot who promotes her and her deities desires and beliefs. This is confirmed by her slaughtering the prophets of Yahweh and instituting the diviners of Baal and Asherah. At times it even appears that she cowed her husband by will alone and is depicted in the line (I Kings 19:2), "As you are Elijah, and I am Jezebel," as standing as the direct opponent to the prophet. One of her more infamous acts includes the slaughter of Naboth when he refused to sell his vineyard to Ahab. Thankfully, her reign eventually came to a foreseen end along with her families. After Jehu killed her son Jehoram, she promoted herself to queen. Jehu then had her thrown out of a window. (2 Kings 9:10) 10 As for Jezebel, dogs will devour her on the plot of ground at Jezreel, and no one will bury her.'" Then he opened the door and ran. (2 Kings 9:33-35) 33 "Throw her down!" Jehu said. So they threw her down, and some of her blood spattered the wall and the horses as they trampled her underfoot. 34 Jehu went in and ate and drank. "Take care of that cursed woman," he said, "and bury her, for she was a king's daughter." 35 But when they went out to bury her, they found nothing except her skull, her feet and her hands.

Ahab

Name: "The Father is my brother" Book: 1 Kings 16-22:40 Role: King of Israel Rule: 874-853 Setting: Israel Prophet: Elijah, Elisha Events: Relatives: Jezebel (Wife), Omri (father), Athaliah (Daughter) Key Figures: A powerful king of Northern Israel, Ahab inherited the political and military advantages his father, Omri, brought to fruition. However, part of these civic negotiations came about through Ahab's marriage to the Phoenician princess Jezebel, daughter of the priest-king Ethbaal of Tyre. This approach to creating political alliances through foreign marriage seems to have been an example set by Solomon. Furthermore, it created the same issues for Ahab as it did for Solomon. Jezebel was given her own facilities for the worship of her god, Baal, the same way Solomon had for his wives. Ahab carried it further by placing Baal on the same scale as Yahweh. This created long and short term repercussions for the nation and her allies even before Elijah and Elisha entered the picture. Ahab Set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan, even building a temple to Ba'al in Samaria. He even permitted the worship of Ba'al-Melqart, chief god of Tyre who Jezebel also worshiped. She took a drastic approach to worship in her new home country by organizing a massacre of the prophets of Yahweh. She then gave the priests of Baal the privileges of courtiers. With this approach to ruling as queen, she managed to put her husband on a collision course with Elijah and Elisha, as well as complicate foreign affairs. Elijah directly confronted Ahab by declaring that only by his word would there be rain or dew. The prophet then disappeared for the next three years. When he re-emerged the king was having trouble finding water for his horses and Elijah accused him of being the cause of Israel's hardships. These types of exchanges led to the famous contest on Mt. Carmel between God's prophet, and the prophets of Baal. After putting an end to the drought, Elijah went into hiding once again. Meanwhile, Ahab had to contend with the threat of Ben Hadad of Aram. Though Ahab managed to succeed in battle against the overwhelming force of Aram, he took a condemned approach. Instead of removing his enemy from power, he created a peace covenant which lasted only three years. Meanwhile the Assyrians caused the states of Israel, Aram, Hamath and nine other smaller states to unite and fight them off. As soon as this threat was dealt with, the temporary alliances broke off. After, the issue of Naboth's vineyard took place. After Ahab was rejected from purchasing the land, Jezebel took matters into her own hands and killed the owner so her husband could claim the property. Elijah appeared again and condemned the royal family. Ahab repented for a time and the Lord's wrath was temporary differed. When Ben Hadad stirred up again, Ahab called upon his ally Jeshoshaphat to aid him in battle. The king had asked his own prophets to prophesy the upcoming battle, however his associate was concerned by the lack of prophets of the Lord. Ahab brushed it off, but Micaiah was summoned regardless, and he declared that Ahab would die. The king did die from a stray arrow. However, he remained upright in his chariot as long as possible so his men wouldn't panic and disperse.

Rehoboam

Name: "The [divine] kinsman has been generous" Book Found: 1 Kings 11:43-14:31. 1-2 Chronicles. Setting: United Kingdom of Israel, Divided Kingdom of Israel. Role: King of A United Israel, King of Southern Israel. Reign: 931-913 BC (Thiele) Events: Kingdom Division Relations: Solomon (father), Naamah (Ammonite mother) Key figures: Jeroboam, Ahajah, Sheshok I Solomon's son and the last king of a United Kingdom of Israel. While Solomon was known for his wealth, it is speculated that his riches may have lead to increased spending and extravagance as taxes also increased. He married many foreign women who brought the influence of other gods into his house and he eventually began to practice idolatry in his later years. This created an unstable situation which Rehoboam only brought to a final conclusion in the eventual split of the kingdom. When he was acclaimed as king the representatives of Israel made the following demands: "Lighten the hard service of your father and his heavy yoke upon us, and we will serve you" (I Kings 12:4). The new king asked them to wait three days before he gave his response. First he consulted the older and experienced advisors of his father who advised him to consent to ensure their loyalty. However, Rehoboam preferred the advice of his young friends who advised him to do the opposite. 10 The young men who had grown up with him replied, "These people have said to you, 'Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but make our yoke lighter.' Now tell them, 'My little finger is thicker than my father's waist. 11 My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.'" (Kings 12:10-11) The people did not react well to this and resisted Rehoboam's efforts, even stoning his task master, Adoram, when he came to reassert control. The king then began a long program to dominate his kingdom while Jeroboam eventually became the leader of the rebelling tribes. This rebellion encouraged the neighbors of Israel who had been cowed by the judges and David to reassert their borders. Aram, Ammon, Moab, Edom and Philistia chipped away at the distracted tribes territories and eventually the Pharaoh Shishak I decided to take a piece as well. He went as far as Jerusalem and carried off the Temple's treasures which included the treasures of the king's house. While the Egyptian king did not conquer the city, Rehoboam went out to meet him and pay tribute. Egypt returned home as they did not have the ability to maintain a presence in Israel, however they destroyed several cities and solidified the division of the kingdom. https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/rehoboam

Isaiah

Name: "Yahweh is salvation" Author: Isaiah Covers: The Assyrian Empire threat. Destruction of Northern Israel and Damascus. Date: 740-680 BC Setting: Southern Israel Reign of: Uzziah, Jotham (740-735 BC), Ahaz (735-715 BC), Hezekiah (715-686 BC), Manasseh (686-642 BC). Prophesied to: Israel and Judah Theme: The suffering servant Related to: Amoz, Shear-Jashub (A Remnant Shall Return)(Son), Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz (Swift to the Plunder, Swift to the Spoil)(Son), a prophetess wife. Key Word: Believe Key Figures: Note: See argument for Deutero-Isaiah arguments Outline: 1. Prophesies Against Judah (1:1-6:13) Fiver sermons open the book of Isaiah and serve as the introductory theme to the book. A. Coming Judgment and Blessing (1:1-5:30) Covenant disobedience came with covenant curses, and Israel had committed several. This section of Isaiah opens as a covenant lawsuit establishing the guild of the nation and reparations in the form of repentance were required. The obvious result of a failure to obey this would result in destruction. Isaiah follows by foreseeing the eschatological coming of God to Zion and the peaceful establishment of his kingdom. B. Call of the Prophet (6:1-13) Isaiah recalls his call to become a prophet in the year Uzziah died, which left him concerned about the future of the kingdom. God assured him that he was still in control of the destiny of his people with a vision of Yahweh seated on the throne of heaven. This prompted Isaiah to confess "woe is me". The visions prompted Isaiah to respond to Gods question of "who will go for Us?", he responded "Here I am. Send me." 2. Promise of Immanuel (7:1-12:6) This section gives clues and details about the coming Messiah. He is described as: "Wonderful Counselor", "Mighty God", "Everlasting Father", "Prince of Peace". 3. Prophecies Against the Nations (13:1-23:18) These list Isaiah's or 4. Predictions of Judgment and Blessing (24:1-27:13) Referred to as the "Little Apocalypse" due to its similarities to the book of Revelation. Rather than continuing to focus on historical judgments of other nations, this section looks at a future condemnations of all the nations of earth. God will "swallow up death", invite the righteous to a royal banquet on Mount Zion, and bring the dead to life. 5. Perilous Woes (28:1-33:24) The five woe oracles which announce the coming destruction of Israel, Jusdah and Assyria. As Israel lacked the spiritual sense to listen to His prophets and trusted their own military strategies more, God would speak through the Assyrian invaders. The Lord would wage war against Jerusalem himself and purge the city of sin. Finally, God would destroy the "destroyer" Assyria. 6. Promise of Destruction and Triumph (34:1-35:10) Two apocalyptic prophecies. God will judge all the nations with cataclysmic catastrophes. The mountains will melt, the heavens will dissolve while He gathers the birds of prey to the day of great battle on the Lord's "day of vengeance". Afterwards, the desert will "blossom like a rose". 7. Prayers for Deliverance (36:1-39:8) This section serves as a hinge for the two halves of the book. King Hezekiah's faith and the deliverance of Jerusalem bring this section of the book to a close. However, even with the Kings healing, envoys from Babylon serve to introduce the country as the next threat. 8. Prayers for Deliverance (36:1-39:8) "Book of Consolation". The postexilic renewal. A. The Promise of Peace (40:1-48:22) The prophecies of the postexilic Israel. Here Isaiah gives details about the return and how the Jews would not have to suddenly flee like they did in Egypt. Instead, Cyrus the Great would act as God's "anointed one" to defeat other nations and permit the Hebrews to return to their homeland and rebuild. B. Provision of Peace (49:1-57:21) Details regarding the "Servant of the Lord" and the debates on his identity. C. Program of Peace (58:1-66:24) Isaiah saw the repetition in Israel's pattern of sinfulness, judgment and redemption. Therefore, the countries complete salvation would wait till God's kingdom would come to earth with the future glory of Zion at the center. The book ends with a message of impending doom and deliverance with the recurring theme that "God is with us". "The Lord will come with fire", "all mankind will come to worship Me".

Jeremiah

Name: "Yahweh lifts up" known as "the weeping prophet." Author: Jeremiah and Baruch Date: 626-562 B.C. Covers: Pre-exilic period to exilic. Setting: Judah Reign of: Josiah (640-609), Jehoahaz (609 BC), Jehoiakim (609-597 BC), Jehoiachin (597 BC), Zedekiah (597-586 BC). Prophesied/Judged/Recipients: Judah Concerning/Message: Return to the Lord, the Babylonians are coming. Theme: Corruption leads to destruction Key Word: "Weeping Prophet" Key Figures: Nebuchadnezzar, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Hilkiah, Baruch Outline: 1. Call of the Prophet: Fire within (1:1-19) Jeremiah was called to warn of the impending Babylonian exile in Judah's last days. This was something kings and priests hated him for as he highlighted their failures and spoke of the approaching destruction of their cities due to their sinful ways. 2. Concern of the Prophet: Doom of Judah (2:1-25:38) The people of Israel came to believe that the Lord protected them regardless of their lack of faithfulness to him or the covenant. Jeremiah focused his speeches on their defective understanding and their false confidence. Israel, for their alliances to Egypt and Assyria, was compared to an unfaithful wife for trusting in men rather than God. At the time, Judah was capable of avoiding this disaster under the early reign of Jehoiakim. The Lord was ready to destroy His temple and Jerusalem for its willingness to believe in false prophets and empty ritual practices rather than display true obedience. Jeremiah expressed a series of laments, complaints and confessions, which reflect some of the Psalms of Lament. When the people refused to abandon their ways, Jeremiah smashed a clay jar symbolizing the inevitable destruction to come. 3. Rejection of the Prophet: Personal Illustrations (26:1-45:5) Jeremiah suffered various persecutions for his unpopular messages of Jerusalem's destruction. Even after its fall in 586 BC, the people continues to sin and the prophet was kidnapped and taken to Egypt. However, the Lord offered a message of hope in which he promised to return the exiles after 70 years and to restore Israel and make a new covenant with his people. "For I know the plans I have for you.... to give you a future and a hope" (29:11) Jeremiah warned king Zedekiah that submission to Babylon was the only way to spare Israel from destruction. However, the king continued his resistance. The siege of Jerusalem lasted a year and a half and Zedekiah attempted to flee, but was captured near Jericho by the Babylonian army. Nebuchadnezzar killed his sons and blinded him before taking as a prisoner. Jeremiah in the meantime was freed from prison by the Babylonians but was abducted to Egypt by Jewish rebels. 4. Oracles Against the Nations: Judgment of the Lord (46:1-51:64) The restoration of Israel would include the judgement of its enemies. These punishments were listed in a series of oracles against nine foreign nations: Egypt, Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar and Hazor, Elam, and Babylon. While Babylon was His hammer of judgment against Israel, it would be brought to an account for the suffering it inflicted. 5. Epilogue: The Fall of Jerusalem "The words of Jeremiah end here" (51). The last records deal with the sacking and destruction of the temple as well as King Jehoiachin's deportment to Babylon in 597 BC.

Elon

Name: "oak" "Terebinth" Book Found: Judges 12:11-12 Judged: N/A Tribe: Zebulun This judge is perhaps the most unknown. There are only two sentences written about him and that is all the information we have. "After him, Elon the Zebulunite led Israel ten years. Then Elon died and was buried in Aijalon in the land of Zebulun" (Judges 12:11-12).

Jehoiachin

Name: "Yahweh will establish" Book: 2 Kings 24:6-16; 25:27-30 Role: King of Judah Rule: 597 BC (3 months) Setting: Pre Babylonian Exile (3 months) Prophet: Jeremiah, Daniel Events: Babylonian exile. Relatives: Jehoiakim (father), Nehushta (mother) Key Figures: Nebuchadnezzar II This ruler came to the throne at the age of eighteen during the Chaldean invasion of Judah. His reign only lasted three months as he surrendered to Nebuchadnezzar II in the face of Jerusalem's potential destruction. Both he and 10,000 of his men were sent into exile. Forty years later the Babylonian king died and his successor released Jehoiachin.

Amos

Name: "burden bearer" Author: Amos Date:760 BC Setting: Northern Israel, Samaria Reign of: Uzziah and Jereoboam II (North and South kingdoms) Prophesied to: Northern Israel (Judah), Bethel Concerning/Message: Theme: Seek the Lord and find salvation. Key Word: Rebellion, Key Phrases:"For three sins..., even for four, I will not turn back my wrath". "Hear this word". Amos was a wealthy shepherd from the village of Tekoa in Judah. His prophecies consisted of warnings of the coming judgment God was preparing to send. At this time, Northern Israel was enjoying a period of great prosperity, but Amos' message indicated that it was about to end. Outline: 1. Eight Oracles of Judgment Against the Nations (1:1-2:16) The first prophecy introduces God as a roaring lion who would roar out His judgment against them. The Israelites had taken God for granted, trusting that His grace and protection would always be available. An earthquake occurred in Israel two years later. The next section describes the sins and their corresponding punishments for eight nations, six of them foreign and the other to being Judah and Israel. 2. Three Sermons of the Coming Judgment of Israel (3:-6:14) By seeking the Lord and upholding justice, Israel could avoid the judgment of God and avert disaster. If the people of Samaria did not repent, Israel would be like a Lamb torn out of the mouth of a lion. Amos took the people to task by comparing the wealthy women to well-fed cattle who would be led away ask captives with hooks in their noses. While many lounged in luxury and perverted covenant feats, others were oppressed the poor for their own gain. Those who committed this transgression against justice would be the first taken into exile. 3. Fiver Visions of Israel's Coming Judgment (7:1-9:10) Amos received five visions at the temple in Bethel which being by displaying God's grace in delaying the judgment against Israel. However, in the end the visions emphasize His resolution to destroy if the people do not repent. Amos was confronted by a priest at Bethel who pointed out that his message was rejected by the leaders of the north. First and second: Amos saw two natural disasters; a locust plague, and a fires which swept through the land. Third: The Lord measured a wall with a plumb line, meaning that Israel did not measure up to Gods standards of righteousness, therefore the nation would crumble like an unstable wall. Fourth: Amos saw a basket of summer fruit, indicating the nations ripeness for judgment. Fifth: Yahweh ordered the destruction of Israel's idols at the sanctuary in Bethel. The people viewed the religious rituals as a means of providing protection against calamity. But the walls would collapse and destroy those gathered for worship. 4. Five Promises of Israel's Restoration (9:11-15) Amos concluded with a series of five messages of hope for the nations future. God promised to restore the Davidic dynasty, make Israel victorious over her enemies, agricultural productivity, future prosperity, and finally permanent settlement in the land.

Nahum

Name: "comfort" Author: Nahum Covers: Prophecy of the fall of Nineveh Date: 650-620 BC? Setting: Pre-Exilic Reign of: Josiah Prophesied to: Judah Message to: Judah Theme: Judgment of guilt Key Word: Vengeance Key Figures: Jonah, Sinsharishkun (Assyrian king at the time of Nineveh's fall). Artifacts: The Babylonian Chronicles Little is known about Nahum except that he was the counterpart to Noah and his hometown was Elkosh. As with the book of Jonah, the book of Nahum ends with a question referencing how the Lord was gracious and slow to anger, but unwilling to excuse the guilty. Interestingly, the Assyrian king Sinsharishkun's (627-612 BC) name means "sin has established the king". After Jonah's ministry, the Assyrians repented of their ways and they were spared destruction. However, a generation later, they were again brutalizing their neighbors. Therefore, God decided to destroy this nation. In 612, the Medes and Babylonians jointly attacked the city of Nineveh in 612 BC and destroyed it. Outline: 1. Destruction of Nineveh Decreed (1:1-15) Nahum begins his prophecies with a portrayal of Yahweh as the Divine Warrior: a holy God who is jealous of His honor and reputation. The Lord who exacts vengeance on His enemies; at his approach the earth trembles, the sea and rivers dry up and the mountains tremble. His attributes are absolute power and perfect righteousness to be a refuge for those who humbly trust Him, and the destroyer of those arrogant enough to oppose him. 2. Destruction of Nineveh Described (2:1-13) The second oracle directly turns to Nineveh and it's destruction. Assyria would become the victim of an invading army led by the Lord Himself as they had invaded others with their sieges. Nahum used present tense to describe the events as they would happen with the uniforms and weapons of the Assyrians painted with blood. 3. Destruction of Nineveh Defended (3:1-19) The third oracle was the dead sentencing of Nineveh. God demanded the Assyrians experience the same suffering and degradation they had inflicted on others.

Jonah

Name: "dove" Author: Jonah Date: 770-750 BC Setting: Northern Israel, Assyrian city Nineveh Reign of: Jeroboam II Prophesied to : Northern Israel, Nineveh Concerning/Message: Theme: All peoples who come to the Lord. Key Word: Prepare or Appoint Nineveh was a Mesopotamian city located on the Tigris River (modern day Iraq). It wasn't only the capital of Sennacherib, but the worship center for the goddess Ishtar and trade city. In the early seventh century it was expanded to 1800 acres and 120,000 residents for the city proper and also features the library built by Ashurbanipal later in 669-627 BC. However, the conflict in this story isn't about Israel and Assyria, but Jonah's unwillingness to preach God's forgiveness knowing He would grant it. The first part of Jonah is about God's mercy to his disobedient runaway prophet. The second is about the Lord's mercy to the people of Nineveh. Outline: 1. Jonah Flees from His Prophetic Calling (1:1-2:10) A. Jonah's Disobedience and its Consequences (1:-17) Jonah fled to Joppa on the Mediterranean coast and boarded a ship to Tarshish going the opposite direction of Nineveh once he received his orders. A storm threatening the safety of those on board eventually compelled the sailors to throw him overboard to appease God. B. Jonah's Deliverance and Thanksgiving (2:1-10) The following verses follow the form of a Psalm of thanksgiving. Jonah cried out from the belly of the fish in thanks for the Lord saving his life. 2. Jonah Fulfills His Prophetic Calling (3:1-4:11) A. Jonah's Obedience and Nineveh's Repentance (3:1-10) Once Jonah was released from the whale, he went to Nineveh where he announced that the city would be destroyed in forty days. The people of the city took his warning seriously and expressed repentance by wearing sackcloth, fasting, and crying out to God. The Lord relented in the face of their penitence. B. Jonah's Displeasure at the Lord's Salvation (4:1-11) Jonah, however, was less than pleased that God spared the city and expressed it in anger. This was precisely why he had refused to go to Nineveh in the first place. The Lord then used a vine, a worm and a scorching east wind to display the prophets misplaced priorities. "Should I not be concerned about that great city?" (4:11) displayed His concerns for all people.

Haggai

Name: "festal" Author: Haggai Covers: Rebuilding the temple Date: 520 BC Setting: Post-exilic Jerusalem Reign of: Darius Prophesied to:Returned exiles of Jerusalem Message: Theme: Key Word: Signet Key Figures: Zechariah, Sheshbazzar, Zerubbabel Haggai worked in tandem with Zechariah to challenge the post-exilic community to resume work of rebuilding the temple. He delivered four messages in a fifteen-week period: August-December 520 BC. This was after Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel have built the altar with the first wave of returned exiles. The disillusioned Israelites needed encouragement as they had given up on finishing the Lord's house. Outline: 1. First Message: Rebuking (1:1-15) (August 29) The people believed they were too poor to rebuild the temple, Haggai countered that they were in poverty because of their failure to build it. Instead, they had devoted their time to their own homes. Haggai challenged the people to "set you heart on it" and "consider" their ways and the potential consequences of their selfishness and greed. 2. Second Message: Recharging (2:1-9) (October 17) Another obstacle the community faced was its limited resources. This made it difficult to remember the former glory of Solomon's first temple in comparison with the reduced circumstances of the second temple. The Lord encouraged the people to be strong, rejoice and remember His presence among them so they might be recharged. This enabled the people to complete their task. After, Ezra 6:8 indicates that Darius ordered his officials to pay for the cost of the temple out of the royal treasury. The Lord promised that the new temple would surpass the glory of the first. 3. Third Message: Ruling (2:10-19) (December 18) Haggai's encouragement to the people was to "give careful thought" to their ways and realize they and their offerings were unclean. However, their punishment would turn into a blessing once they repented. At this point, the community had experienced a poor harvest and economy. From that day forward the Lord promised that He would provide the abundant blessings of the Mosaic covenant rather than curses if they continued to seek the Lord. 4. Fourth Message: Reigning (2:20-33) (December 18) Haggai's final message promised to bless Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, grandson of Jehoiachin, and of the line of David. The Lord promised to make Zerubbabel "like a signet ring" and reverse the curse the prophet Jeremiah announced against Jehoiachin as the representative of the house of David (Jer 22:24-25). Prior to this, the Lord temporarily rejected the line of David, but He would once again restore the Davidic king as His human vice-regent and representative of Heavenly rule.

Zephaniah

Name: "hidden" Author: Zephaniah Covers: Josaiah's period of reforms, end of Neo-Assyrian Empire. Date: 630-625 BC Setting: Judah Reign of: Josiah Recipients: Judah Concerning/Message: Theme: "seek the Lord, all you humble of the earth... Seek righteousness, seek humility" (2:3), Day of the Lord. Key Word: Seek Key Figures: Hezekiah (great-grand father and king from 715-686 BC), Jeremiah Zephaniah's condemnation of Judah's idolatry indicates that he began his ministry prior to Josiah's reforms and therefore may have had an influence in them taking place. He began his ministry around the same time Jeremiah began his, which began in 627 BC, the kings thirteenth year. This was when the Neo-Assyrian Empire was crumbling and the Babylonians began their rise to power. Interestingly, his great grandfather was king Hezekiah as this explains why four generations of this prophets lineage were listed. Outline: 1. Judgment of Judah (1:1-2:3) The day of the Lord is the central theme of this book and what Zephaniah warned was "near" with repeated references. After this warning, the prophet refocused his message on Yahweh's impending judgment for Judah's idolatry. The people erroneously presumed that because they were God's chosen, that they would come to no harm. 2. Judgment of the Nations (2:4-15) Zephaniah referenced the nations from the points of the compass. Philistia in the west, Moab and Ammon in the east, Cush in the south, and Assyria in the north. This was to demonstrate the encompassing nature of God's judgment. Though the surrounding nations would harass Judah, the remnants would come to possess these nations when they were restored. 3. Justification of the Remnant (3:1-20) Zephaniah warned that the day of the Lord's judgment against Judah and the other nations was approaching. In the eschatological days of God, he would purge evildoers from His people and purify the speech of all peoples so they might worship and serve Him. Zephaniah stressed that the Lord's blessings were for the "humble" who put their trust in Him (3:11-12, cf. 2:3).

Solomon

Name: "peace" Book Found: 2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, 1 Chronicles. Writings: 1,005 songs in The Song of Solomon, 3,000 Proverbs, Song of Songs, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes Setting: United Kingdom of Israel Role: King of the United Kingdom of Israel Reign: 971-931 BC. Events: United Kingdom of Israel Relations: David, Bathsheba, Rehoboam Key figures: Queen of Sheba, Jeroboam, Hadad The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was known for his wisdom and wealth and his writings spanned across several books of the bible. While he was not the oldest son, his father anointed him while he was still live. He overcame internal familial and political threats to secure his position and quickly began to accumulate his wealth, owning 12,000 horses and 1,400 chariots according to 1 Kings. His borders were peaceful and he controlled the region west of the Euphrates as well as establishing colonies to establish military, administrative and commercial centers. This wealth enabled him to build the Holy Temple in lavish detail with gold overlay. The most famous example of his wisdom details a story about two women claiming motherhood of the same baby. Solomon's solution was to cut the baby into two pieces 50/50 so each mother would have a part of the child. One woman agreed to these terms while the other begged him not to and to just give the child, alive and whole, to the other woman. Solomon gave the child to the female who begged for the infants life as her response proved who the mother was. The queen of Sheba was also impressed with the kings wisdom as the bible details her visiting and presenting Solomon with valuable gifts. She then asked him various questions and riddles and was amazed at his responses. However, in his later years, Solomon's capabilities as a leader became questionable. 1 Kings 11:3 states that he had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines. The cost of maintaining his lavish lifestyle had filtered down into heavier taxation of his subjects. Many of these wives were foreign and worshiped other gods. Solomon himself eventually worshiped these gods as well and even built shrines for prayer and sacrifice to them. He also showed favoritism to Judah, which alienated the northern tribes. Eventually, the prophet Ahijah prophesied that it would be Jeroboam who would become king over ten of the twelve tribes rather than one of Solomon's sons. Several individuals rose up to in response to the issues which were being created in Israel. Hadad of Edom, Rezon son of ELiada and ruler of Aram, and Jeroboam all rebelled. Eventually Jeroboam succeeded in his second rebellion against Solomon after the kings death and the kingdom divided under his son Rehoboam.

Hosea

Name: "salvation" Author: Hosea Date: 755-720 Setting: Pre-exile Reign of: Jeroboam II (North Kingdom), to Hezekiah (south) (see kings list of north and south). Prophesied to: Pre-exilic Israel Concerning/Message: faithfulness Theme: Unfaithful Wife Key Word: Repent Key Figures: Gomer(wife) See: https://www.britannica.com/topic/biblical-literature/From-the-period-of-the-divided-monarchy-through-the-restoration Hosea prophesied starting from a time of economic and spiritual prosperity, intrigue, and the preexilic corrupted environment of Israel. An outstanding detail of this prophet however, is that God commanded Hosea to marry a promiscuous and unfaithful wife, Gomer, who subsequently gave him three children with symbolic names. The woman and the children were metaphors of Israel's unfaithfulness to the covenants and God through worshiping other gods. Outline: 1. Personal and National Problem: Unfaithfulness (1:1-3:5) Gomer and Hosea's marriage was representative of the relationship between God and Israel. 2. Prospect of Judgment and Salvation (4:1-14:9) Hosea directly ministered to the issue of Israels infidelity and acted as a prosecuting attorney, charging them with three indictments. "The Lord has a charge to bring against you who live on in the land." (4:1) "They have broken the covenant; they were unfaithful to me there." (6:7) "The Lord has a charge to bring against Judah; he will punish Jacob according to his ways and repay him according to his deeds." (12:2) 4-14 consists of three cycles which alternated between messages of judgment and salvation, reflecting that while God would punish Israel, he would not reject them forever and would eventually restore them. A. Judgment for Israel's Rebellion (4:1-6:3) The ultimate fault for Israel's disobedience lay with the corrupt and perverse priests and prophets who failed to teach the word of God. Unfortunately, this lead to the people being punished for their ignorance. B. Judgment Results in Israel's Ruin (6:4-11:11) Hosea then delivered two extended indictments of Israel's sin against God, detailing how they were to be punished for their crimes. Corrupt business practices which deceived and defrauded their partners and those in need. This is highlighted by the face that four of Israel's last six kings were murdered by their successors. C. Judgment Turns to Restoration (11:12-14:9) Hosea then offers a final message of hope and promise for the salvation of Israel and it's restoration. When Israel trusted in God rather than false idols and military alliances, He would turn back to them.

Obadiah

Name: "servant of Yahweh" Author: Obadiah Covers: Sins of the Edomites Date: 840-830 BC Setting: Edom (capital Petra) Prophesied to: Judah and Edom Message: Doom of Edom Theme: Judgment Key Word: Pride Little is actually known about Obadiah, but the book is the shortest in the Old Testament. It provides no details about the prophet or the time of his ministry. However, some scholars place the time of Edom's revolt against Judah in the early parts of the ninth century (2Kgs 8:20-22, Chron 21:8-20) while other suggest it was in the aftermath of the Babylonian conquest of 586 BC. However, the key theme of the book is the announcement that God would judge Edom (Seir) for its participation with Judah's enemies in the plundering of Jerusalem. Remember that the Edomites were descendants of Esau and their relationship reflected that of the two brothers. During the wilderness wanderings, Edom refused Israel safe passage through their territories (Num 20:14-21). Later it was conquered and brought into the kingdom by David until its revolt during the reign of Jehoram two centuries later (2 Kgs 8:20-22). The frequent skirmishes and rivalries peaked when Edom involved itself with the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem. Later it was annexed from Babylon, and in the fourth century Nabatean Arabs took control and established Petra as their capital. Outline: 1. Doom of Edom (1-16) Edom trusted in their military and political might, partially made possible by their fortresses in the mountains which made them difficult to attack. However, for their participation in the destruction of Jerusalem, they would face the Lords judgment and their allies would plunder their treasures. 2. Deliverance of Judah (17-21) Edom's doom was permanent, however God would restore Judah and they in turn would subjugate Edom and rule over their territories.

Joshua

Name: "the Lord is salvation" Book Found: Deuteronomy and Joshua Writings: probably the book of Joshua Setting: Wilderness and Canaan Role: aid to Moses then leader of Israel Events: 40 year wilderness wanderings, Canaan conquest. Relations: Tribe of Edom Key figures: Moses, Caleb Of the tribe of Ephraim, he served as Moses' aid and was one of the two spies who gave a good report to Moses about the land of Canaan out of the twelve sent. After Moses' death he lead the people of Israel to military victory in the Canaan Conquest.

Zechariah

Name: "the Lord remembers" Author: Zechariah Covers: Date: 520-500 BC Setting: Jerusalem Reign of: Darius Prophesied to: Postexilic Judah Message: Return to Him so that He will return to you Theme: The return Key Word: Grace, return Key Figures: Haggai, Zechariah was a postexilic prophet who foretold the coming of Israel's true and final King. He also served to remind the people of God's grace and willingness to save them should they call upon Him in the last days. He also outlines the future prophetic program from the first to the second coming of the Messiah. His ministry began in 520 BC and continued till 515 BC; the completion of the second temple which is covered in the first part of the book. In the early chapters, his message is one of encouragement, pointing to the coming Messiah and his future reign as both priest and king. Outline: 1. Call to Repentance (1:1-6) After Haggai's successful persuasion of the postexilic community to rebuild the temple, Zechariah called the people to the path of spiritual renewal. The temple was useless without their obedience, which they gave. 2. Eight Night Visions (1:7-6:15) On Feb 15, 519 BC, Zechariah delivered his message of eight visions with angelic interpretations accompanying them. Reflected in their message is the Lord's gracious response to repentance (1:6). First: Four horsemen on colored horses. The red horse carried an angel while the others were angelic messengers. They patrolled the earth and found it at pace and asked God to be merciful to Jerusalem. Two: Four horns. Three: Man with a measuring rod measuring the walls to prepare for their reconstruction. Four: Restoration of the high priest Joshua at the temple. Five: Two olive trees with seven lamps. These articles reflect the use of the oil used for the menorah, which represents the presence of the Lord. The timber signifies Joshua, the high priest, and Zerubbabel the governor. Six: A flying scrolls measured thirty feet by fifteen feet and covered with written curses against commandment breakers. Seven: A woman in a measuring basket who was taken to another land. She represents the wickedness in the land. These visions conclude with a symbolic act confirming the Lord's promise to bless Joshua and Zerubbabel as they continued their renewal efforts. Zechariah was to place a crown on Joshua's head, indicating his role as both priest and king. 3. Four Messages (7:1-8:23) In 518, Zechariah responded to questions from a delegation out of Bethel. They wanted to know if they should continue fasting and mourning over the fall of Jerusalem now that they weren't in exile. Zechariah responded that God was more interesting in their practice of justice than ritual. Instead, he pointed to the future hope of Jerusalem when the Lord promised to live among them and bring the exiles back home. Jerusalem would become a great city again and their rituals of mourning would become festivals of celebrations. 4. Two Burdens (9:1-14:21) This section focuses on an eschatological portrayal of the Messiah, the final restoration of Israel and the kingdom of Israel. A. First Burden: False Shepherds (9:1-11:17) The Lord would march out and defeat Israel's enemies. However, he would spare a segment of the Philistines to worship Him and become like a tribe to Israel. Israel's future king would come as a man of peace, riding a donkey instead of a horse or chariot. B. Second Burden: The King is Coming (12:1-14:21) The second oracle promised the future restoration of Israel, but that it would only come after the once again cleansed his people through judgment. The last section depicts the final assault on Jerusalem when the Lord would come down to fight on behalf of his people. His coming would split the Mount of Olives in two, destroy the enemy, and provide a way of escape for his people. After, a time of unprecedented peace will take place on earth.

Ehud

Name: "where is the glory?" Book Found: Judges 3:12 Judged: Moabites, King Eglon Events: Capture of Jericho Key figures: King Eglon Tribe: Benjamin Traits: Left-handed After the death of Othniel, Eglon of Moab made alliances with the Ammonites and Amalekites. Together, they captured Jericho as God had given Israel over for their disobedience. After 18 years, Israel cried out to the Lord and He responded by appointing Ehud as a judge. Ehud was left handed, something that was considered uncommon. He concealed a double edged sword under his clothes on the right side when he was delivering the tribute to the king for Israel. Apparently the guards didn't think to check for a blade. The king was described as "a very fat man" (Judges 3:17), and Eglon dismissed his guards when Ehud said had a secret message for him. In the kings private upper room, the judge said "I have a message from God for you" (Judges 3:20) before plunging his blade into the kings belly. "Even the handle sank in after the blade, and his bowels discharged. Ehud did not pull the sword out, and the fat close in over it" (Judges 3:22). Ehud escaped, but the king's servants did not enter his locked private chambers till it was too late. With Eglon dead, the Israelites launched a surprise attack, killing 10,000 soldiers and conquering Moab. Israel then enjoyed 80 years of peace until Ehud died.

Tola

Name: "worm" "worm of scarlet" Tola is the cloth used in the Tabernacle. Book Found: Judges 10:1- Judged: N/A Events: Jotham's attempted monarchy Relations: Puah (father), Dodo (grandfather) Key figures: Jotham, son of Gideon Tribe: Issachar Not much is known about Tola; we know that he was of the tribe of Issachar and his father was Puah. We don't even know what he "rose to save Israel" (Judges 10:1) from. However, before Gideon died he had 70 sons, one of whom was Abimelech. He slaughtered all of his siblings except for Jotham, who escaped and attempted to seize power and establish a Jewish monarchy. He governed for three years before he died fighting against his own people. He killed many Israelites who opposed him, and maybe this is what Tola had to judge. Unfortunately, the bible doesn't give specifics.

Hannah

Name: 'Favor, grace' Book Found: 1 Samuel Setting: Temple at Shiloh Role: Mother of Samuel Relations: Samuel (son), Elkanah (husband), Peninnah Key figures: Samuel's Mother and one of the wives (other Peninnah) to Elkanah . She prayed for a child when Peninnah taunted her about her inability to have any and promised to dedicate him to God. He answered her prayer and she gave birth to Samuel.

Ruth (Book of)

Name: 'Friend' Author: Anonymous (possibly Nathan) Covers: Date Written: 1020-1000 BC Setting: Moab to Bethlehem Reign of: No Ruler During: Settlement of Canaan Message: God's grace extended to Gentiles and Hebrews. Theme: Redemption, salvation loyalty, faithfulness and hope. Key Word: Redeemer, sandal, kinsman-redeemer Key Characters: Boaz, Naomi, Obed The Moabite ancestor of Jesus Christ who married Boaz after Naomi's (Mara, step-mother) call upon the kinsman redeemer is negotiated. Ruth was the Moabite step-daughter to Naomi and widow to her son. As Naomi was too old to marry again and produce a son after her husband died and all her other sons were deceased, she left for Bethlehem with Ruth who faithfully refused to leave her. As Naomi was poor she could not buy back her ancestral Bethlehem property. Ruth took part in the Jewish welfare program and took the leftover grain from Boaz's fields. Her devotion and hard work earned her his interest and Naomi helps work out a plan under the kinsman redeemer propose to Boaz to take Ruth as his wife to continue the family name and save them from destitution. After some negotiation with the nearest kinsman, both parties were married and Ruth gave birth to Obed. Outline: 1. Ruth's determination (1:1-22) 2. Ruth's Devotion (2:1-23) 3. Boaz's decision (3:1-18) 4. Family's Destiny (4:1-22)

Zerubbabel (Sheshbazzar)

Name: 'Seed of Babel, Pressed out of Babel Book Found: Ezra Setting: Post-exilic Jerusalem, Persian Empire Role: Leader of the second return back to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Events: Reconstruction of the Temple Relations: son of Pedaiah, and grandson of the deported king Jeconiah. Key figures: Jeshua, Sheshbazzar Lead the first return of the Jewish exiles after their seventy year exile under Babylonian rule along side Sheshbazzar. Both were also governors of the Persian province of Judah.

Joshua (book of)

Name: 'The Lord is Salvation' Authorship: Likely Joshua (named such in Babylonian Talmud Baba Bathra) Covers: 15th-13th (prob 1405-1399) Preparation of and eventual conquest of Canaan. Date written (circa): 1380-1370 BC (early date) Setting: Canaan Role: Leader of Israel, heir to Moses, representative of Yahweh Setting: Wilderness to Canaan Concerning: The Conquest of Canaan Recipients: Post exodus second generation Israelites Theme: Covenant loyalty Key word: Meditate or Recite Key Figures: One of the 12 spies who went into Canaan and one of the only two that came back with a good report of the land. This was followed by fourty years of wandering due to Israel's lack of faith. Lead Israel to military victory against Jericho after reconfirming and meditating Israels commitment to the Covenant. Total list of Cities Conquered (31): Jericho, Ai, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, Eglon, Gezer, Debir, Geder, Hormah, Arad, Libnah, Libnah, Adullam, Makkedah, Bethel, Tappuah, Hepher, Aphek, Lasharon, Madon, Hazor, Shimron-meron, Achshapjh, Taanach, Megiddo, Kedesh, Jokeam, Dor, Goiim, Tirzah Outline: 1. Conquest of Canaan (1:1-12:24) A. Preparation of the People (1:1-5:15) These spiritual preparations of the people included meditating on the Word of God and reciting its principles; issuing a challenge of obedience; crossing the Jordan river on dry ground, setting memorial stones for future generations, circumcising the men after making camp at Gilgal and celebrating passover. Military preparation included sending out two spies and setting up battle camp at Gilgal. B. Progression of the Conquest (6:1-12:24) Using a divide and conquer approach, the Israelites drove a wedge between northern and southern Canaan which permitted them to defeat each city separately. The first city to fall was Jericho. Afterwards however, they suffered a defeat at Ai due to covenant transgressions, which they quickly remedied before achieving victory there. a. Central Campaign (6:1-9:27) Jericho, Ai b. Southern Campaign (10:1-43) c. Northern Campaign (11:1-12:24) Merom, Hazor, the Transjordan territory 2. Division of Canaan (13:1-21:5 A. Unconquered Land (13:1-7) Pockets of Philistines, Geshurites, Canaanites, Amorites and Phonecians were left alone. B. East Bank Tribes (13:8-33) Transjordan area settled by: Reuben, Gad and half of Manasseh. (Gilead) C. West Bank Tribes (14:1-19:51) Land designated by lot. D. Designated Cities (20:1-21:45) Cities of refuge and Levitical cities. 3.Conclusion of Joshua's Ministry (22:1-24:33) A. Dispute about the Alter (22:1-34) Resolution of the altar at the Jordan Valley asit was established as an attempt at unity between eastern and western tribes. B. Covenant Renewal and Death of Joshua (23:1-24:33) Joshua issued a challenge for covenant obedience and listed the curses which accompany disobedience.

Saul

Name: 'asked for, prayed for' Book Found: 1-2 Samuel Setting: Canaan Role: first king of a United Israeli Kingdom Rule: 1050-1010 BC Events: ascension of the first king, war with the Philistines, ascension of David. Tribe: Benjamin Relations: Ish-Bosheth, Michal, Jonathan, David. Key Figures: Samuel, David, Goliath, Johnathan The first king of a united Israel chosen by the people for his good looks rather than his capabilities. However, the prophesied king was to be from the tribe of Judah and Saul was from Benjamin and the demand for a king came at the wrong time. (1 Samuel 8-15) The tribes of Israel decided they wanted a more stable administration to deal with their troubles rather than a series of Judges. The surrounding nations had their own kings and administrators, and the Israelites decided they wanted one too. They approached the priest Samuel and demanded a solution they had chosen: Saul. He was described as tall and good looking, but not as an intelligent or even wise man. Samuel reluctantly anointed Saul all while continually reminding the Jews that they would regret their choice. This is highlighted by the fact that when the prophet came to bless the young man, he hid behind some baggage rather than behave graciously. Saul initially had a good start as the new monarch and he achieved many military victories. However, this was the extent of the new kings capabilities. While Samuel was away, Saul usurped his priestly functions and offered sacrifices at Gilgal before a battle with the Philistines. He ignored the physical needs of his men, cursing anyone who ate before he had victory over his enemies. Jonathan didn't hear this warning and ate some honey, stating that his father was bringing trouble with his demands. When the Israelites did defeat the Philistines they were pursuing, they urgently slaughtered their enemies cattle and sheep. Then they are them on the ground with the blood. When Jonathan's disobedience to his father was discovered, Saul told him "May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if you do not die, Jonathan" ( 1 Sam 14:44). But the men defended Jonathan, citing him as their champion and means of victory with God's help. Most of Saul's failures after this point come from his interactions with David. After the shepherd slew Goliath and achieved military victory, Saul noticed the young mans growing popularity. Even his children, Jonathan and Michal disobeyed him to defend David. After this, Saul is portrayed as a jealous and demonically tormented man as God's presence had left him. After several murder attempts, Jonathan helped David flee into exile to escape his father. Saul encountered David a few times after he fled. Once when the king was in pursuit, the young man crept into the cave where he was sleeping and cut a section of his cloak. When Saul awoke, David pointed out that the kings life had been in his hands, and he had not taken it. This was out of respect for God and the position he had granted the ruler by anointing him. Saul had a moment of clarity and confessed that David would become king after him. However, he asked the son of Jesse to promise him that he would not kill his descendants. David agreed to this and departed. However, Saul continued his pursuit. Saul also killed eighty-five priests at Nob after Ahimelek aided David. Near the end of the kings life, he contacted a witch at Endor. This is significant as he had outlawed mediums and witchcraft and it was also a covenant violation. He needed the woman to contact the spirit of Samuel as God no longer spoke to him. While the witch was afraid for her life, she agreed to attempt to call up the ghost. What she did not expect was that she would succeed. Samuel chastised the king. 16 Samuel said, "Why do you consult me, now that the Lord has departed from you and become your enemy? 17 The Lord has done what he predicted through me. The Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors—to David. 18 Because you did not obey the Lord or carry out his fierce wrath against the Amalekites, the Lord has done this to you today. 19 The Lord will deliver both Israel and you into the hands of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The Lord will also give the army of Israel into the hands of the Philistines" (1 Sam 28). Saul died under tragic circumstance. In a fight with the Philistines, he was wounded on Mount Gilboa and his son Jonathan was killed. The king ordered his armor-bearer to run him through with his sword so the would not die at the hands of his enemies. When his aid refused, Saul took his own sword and fell on it.

Nehemiah (Book of)

Name: 'comfort of Yahweh' Author: Ezra and Nehemiah Date: 444-425 Setting: Jerusalem Reign of: Artaxerxes I Prophesied/Judged/Recipients: Concerning/Message: Theme: Reconstruction of a culture. Key Word: Rebuilding Key Figures: Ezra, Artaxerxes I Nehemiah is a continuation of the book of Ezra and was composed by both men as Ezra makes frequent references to himself in the third person throughout. The first section (1-6) is political, as it deals with administrative duties and the use of political intrigue to halt the efforts to rebuild, while the second deals with spiritual and covenant reforms and renewal. Nehemiah's distinctive talent was his administrative abilities which enabled the walls of Jerusalem to be rebuilt in 52 days. Outline: 1. Rebuilding the wall (1-6) A. Nehemiah's Concern (Neh 1) Nehemiah's concern for the vulnerability of Jerusalem due to the crumpled walls. B. Nehemiah's Commission (Neh 2) Nehemiah was the cupbearer to Artaxerxes, which placed him in the prime position to influence a change in Jerusalem's situation. C. Nehemiah's Conquest (Neh 3-6) Nehemiah was an administrative genius. He designated specific families to work on sections of the walls, delegated responsibilities and encouraged accountability which lead to greater progress. Sanballat, the govenor of Samaria, Tobiah the Ammonite and Geshem the Arabian, all of who attemped to use threats, rumors, mockery and political intrigue to create fear in the workers. Nehemiah responded with armed guards to protect the laborers. He also dealt with the internal issues created by covenants violations, threats of dissension and discouragement caused by financial crisis. D. Nehemiah's City (7:1-73) A record of transitioning into guarding the city and a record of those Jews who returned. 2.. Renewing the People (Nehemiah 8-13) A. Revival and Covenant Renewal (Nehemiah 8-10) Ezra reread portions of the law. B. Reforming the Society (Nehemiah 11-13) With the city made safe, repopulating was now possible. Records of the heads of families were preserved as well as villages occupied by Jews outside of the city. When Nehemiah returned to Persia, the covenant distinctiveness, lacking sufficient leadership, began to wane, requiring his return. Reinforcement of convenantal dictates were reinforced by excluding foreigners fron assembly, removing Tobiah from the temple, restoring Levitical tithes and stopping Sabbath breaking and intermarriages with pagans.

Ruth

Name: 'friendship' Book Found: Book of Ruth Setting: Moab to Bethlehem Role: Step-daughter, Wife, ancestor to David (great grandmother). Relations: Naomi, Boaz, Obed The main character of the Book of Ruth for which the article is named. Though a gentile (Moabite), her loyalty to her Jewish step-mother, Naomi, and her willingness to give up her pagan background, set her apart and brought her to the attention to Naomi's relative Boaz. He was then persuaded by Ruth's virtuous character to negotiate for the nearest kinsman's relinquishment of their claim over Naomi's estate and right by Jewish law to claim their duty over the widows land and her step-daughter. The end of the negotiation is signaled by the kinsman's symbolic removal of his sandal.

Job

Name: 'persecuted, hated' Author: Anonymous (Elihu?) Covers: time of the patriarchs? Date: Uncertain, Reign of: No ruler Theme: The question of suffering Key Word: "Why me Lord?", Reject or Take back Key Figures: Job's wife, Satan, Eliphaz, Bildad, Zophar. The book of Job is presented in a courtroom motif style. Job is described as a wealthy man from a distant land and "the greatest man among all the people of the east". Satan decides to issue a challenge to see if he can cause the man to curse God, which the Lord permits. What follows is a series of occurrences which strip Job of everything and bring about the classic questions regarding suffering. The flow of the conversations which take place during these events can be listed as follows: 1. Author: Suffering is pernicious (satanic) 2. Job: Suffering is a puzzle (serious). 3. Friends: Suffering is penal (sinful). 4. Elihu: Suffering purifies (shortcomings). 5. God: Suffering is providential (sovereignty). Outline: 1. Prologue: Opening Narrative (Job 1-2) Satan strips Job of everything but his life. His children die and all his wealth, comforts and his health are diminished as well. 2. Dialogue: Job and His Friends (Job 3-27) As Job curses the day of his birth and questions why God allows him to be born if he was only destined to suffer, his friend begin a round of questioning to try and determine the reason. It should be noted that Job never cursed or accused God of injustice even when his wife exclaimed "Why don't you curse God and die?" Throughout this section, all of Job's friends attempt to make various arguments based on a theological position. These range from a vision, to experience, tradition, reason or even speculation. All of these attempts fall short of proving why Job might be deserving or provoked his suffering. Job then calls the justice of God into question which antagonizes his friends. As Job cannot present his case to God to prove his innocence, his frustration mounts even as he holds onto his faith that he will see the Lord when he dies. 3. Interlude: Poem on Wisdom (Job 28) This section questions the perceived inequality of divine justice and retribution before concluding that wisdom ultimately rests in fear of the Lord. Even when we are incapable of comprehending the activity of God. 4. Monologues: Job, Elihu, and God (Job 29-42:6) A. Job's closing oration (Job 29-31) Job affirms his innocence one more time and challenges God to judge him honestly before concluding his speeches with a reflection on his life prior to his suffering. B. Elihu's Speeches (Job 32-37) In Elihu's sudden interjection provides a middle ground to Job's other accusatory speeches. Rather he deems that God's ways are "beyond our understanding". He further expounds on the idea by suggesting that God may use suffering as a means of keeping men from sin. C. God's Response to Job (Job 38-41) Through seventy rhetorical, God displays his unfathomable wisdom and captures the answering theme through the statement "Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything in heaven belongs to me." He reminds Job and the readers that He is God and we are not. D. Job's Reply to God (Job 42:1-6) Job repents that he "spoke of things too wonderful for me to know", responding in faith that it is enough to know that God is in control. 5. Epilogue: Closing Narrative (job 42:7-17) Job is vindicated and his health and family is restored while his wealth is doubled to twice of what it had been before his trials.

Sheshbazzar (Zerubbabel)

Name: 'sin prtotect the Father', 'worshiper of fire' Book Found: Ezra Writings: none Setting: Persian empire and Jerusalem. Role: Lead the first return of Jewish exiles and aided Zerubbabel in rebuilding the temple and erecting the altar. Events: Post exilic return. Key figures: Zerubbabel, Darius I Lead the first return of the Jewish exiles after their seventy year exile under Babylonian rule along side Zerubbabel during the reign of Darius I. Both were also governors of the Persian provinces. Their roles in the bible dealt with rebuilding the temple and erecting the altar.

Daniel's statue vision (Daniel 2)

Nebuchadnezzar had a dream about a great metallic stature which none of his wise men could interpret. After a great deal of prayer, Daniel was able to explain the vision. It was revealed that God had shown the king what would happen "in the last days". The statue had layers of different types of metal, each of the elements of the statue represented a specific kingdom. The golden head was for Babylon, silver arms for Media-Persia, brass belly for Greece, and the fourth of clay toes which many think refers to Rome. Each of these alloys crumbled one at a time and were replaced by falling stone identified as representing the "kingdom of God".

Esther (Book of)

Name: 'star' (stara) Persian of Ishtar or Ashtar. Hebrew name Hadassah 'myrtle' Author: Anonymous Persian Jew (Mordecai?) Covers: 483-473 Date Circa: 450-400 Setting: Persia Reign of: Xerxes I During: Persian Empire Recipients: Jews of the Diaspora Message: God is still with his people no matter where they reside. Theme: Key word: Fast(ing), feast of Purim Key figures: Xerxes, Mordecai, Haman, Queen Vashti Containing political court intrigue, murder plots and peasant girls being whisked away to become queens, Esther is a book full of dramatic storytelling fit for any avid reader. Esther, an obscure Jewish girl became the unlikely rescuer of her people when she married Xerxes and became queen of Persia. When her cousin Mordecai learned of a plot to eliminate the Jews hatched by the jealous Haman. Esther risked her life by breaking court rules to expose the plot while simultaneously revealing herself to be a Jewess. Her gamble payed off and her actions are remembered in the feast of Purim. Oddly enough, Esther is the only book of the bible where Gods name does not appear. Also, Esther broke several covenant vows by becoming wife to Xerxes by joining his harem and eating from his table. Yet the message of Esther is of how God used imperfect people to deliver the Jews from destruction. Outline: 1. Danger to the Jews (1:1-5:14) A. Demotion of Vashti (1:1-22) B. Destiny of Esther (2:1-23) C. Decree Against the Jews (3:1-15) D. Decision of Esther (4:1-5:14) 2. Deliverance of the Jews (6:1-10:3) A. Valor of Mordecai rewarded (6:1-14) B. Venture of Esther (7:1-10) C. Victory of the Jews (8:1-9:32) D. Vindication of Mordecai (10:1-3)

Samuel

Name: 'the name of God', 'asked of God' or 'His name is God'. Author: Anonymous (Nathan or Gad?) Covers: The fall of the Prophets and rise of the Jewish Monarchy. Date witen: 960 Circa Setting: Pre and Post United Kingdom of Israel Reign of: Saul, Ish-Boseth, David Message: Faithfulness to God Prophesied to: Kings of Israel and the nation Theme: Key Word: Kingmaker Key Figures: Hannah, Eli, Saul, David, Johnathan, Michal, Bathsheba Samuel was dedicated to God by his mother Hannah after He gave her the child. He then served in the tabernacle under Eli's tutelage where the Lord spoke directly to him rather than the confirmed high priest. Judgment was passed onto Eli's sons who all died and which catapulted Samuel into position as the next high priest and judge. Eventually, it became necessary for a monarchy for Israel's leadership, which lead to the people's choice of king in Saul (son of Kish). This kingship eventually passed to David (son of Jessie) as God's choice in ruler, who Samuel anointed. Outline: 1. Transition from Eli to Samuel (1 Samuel 1:1-7:17 2. Reign of Saul (1 Samuel 8:1-31:13) A. Saul's Selection (1 Samuel 8:1-11:15) B. Samuel's Warning (1 Samuel 12:1-25) The Hebrews chose and demanded Saul be their king not based on his capabilities, but good looks. Samuel warned them about what restrictions an ungodly king would inflict on their personal freedoms and the potential covenant transgressions. C. Saul's Rejection (1 Samuel 13:1-17:58) While Saul started out as a strong leader in the beginning (having won several victories against the Philistines), it quickly became apparent that Samuel's warnings about a king not of Gods choice, but the peoples choice were going to come to fruition. Saul usurped priestly functions while Samuel was away before the battle of Gilgal with the Philistines caused God to vow that he would remove him from kingship. D. Saul's Failures (1 Samuel 18:1-31:13) Saul's kingship continued to deteriorate with his subsequent actions. He forbade his men food during a military campaign, which almost cost him his son Johnathan. His later actions against David, which were fueled by jealousy, expounded upon his deteriorating mental faculties. His senseless slaughter of 85 priests at Nab (1 Sam 22) and eventual summoning of Samuel's spirit through a Medium further cemented the proof of his lack of capabilities. 3. Reign of David (Transition to David)(2 Samuel 1:1-24:25) David took the crown of Israel after Sauls suicide at the hands of his armor bearer at Mount Gilboa. This was after years of fleeing the mad king. A. David's Faith (2 Samuel 1:1-10:19) Davids faith is the cornerstone for his many military and political victories. This includes his defeat of Goliath, alliance with Hiram king of Tyre, defeat of the Philistines, and the extension of his borders from Egypt to the Euphrates. B. David's Faults (2 Samuel 11:1-12:31) Bathsheba C. David's Foes (2 Samuel 13:1-20:26) As a result of the curse pronounced on David by Nathan for his transgressions with Bathsheba led to his daughter, Tamar's rape by her half brother Amnon and his death by Absalom. This lead to Absaloms failed revolt against his father. D. David's Fame (2 Samuel 21:1-24:25)

Ezra (Book of)

Name: Ezra (Scribe and Priest) Covers: 538-457 Date written: 458-444 Setting: Post-exilic Jerusalem Reign of: Cyrus II (The Great), Xerxes I, Artaxerxies I Priest during: Resettlement of the Jewish people after the seventy-year exile in Babylon. Message: The rebuilding of the temple and spiritual renewal of the people. Recipients: Post-Exilic Jews Theme: Key Word: Go up Key Figures: Haggai, Zechariah, Sheshbazzar, Zerubbabel, Jeshua Focuses on the first two returns to Israel. The first group was lead by Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel after the seventy year exile, and the second was by Ezra eighty years later. The first part of the book (1-6) focuses on the return under Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel to rebuild the temple between 538-515 BC. The second section (7-10) concerns Ezras' return with the second group of exiles to adorn the temple and to rebuild the people spiritually. The book of Esther takes place between Ezra and Nehemiah. After the return of the refuges, Era began a reformation to preserve the cultural and spiritual identity of the Jews and to avoid syncretism so covenant distinctives and standards could be maintained. This was only possible through the sovereign aid of God who moved the hearts of leaders such as Cyrus the Great to issue the decree to permit the return of the Jews to their home and begin restorations efforts. These efforts were then defended and upheld by rulers such as Darius I when opponents to the Jews attempted to waylay the efforts to rebuild the temple with false allegations which won them only a temporary injunction. To begin this cultural and spiritual reformation, both the temple and the people themselves needed to reclaim their identity. Jeshua and Zerubbabel erected the altar, reestablished the sacrifical system, and set the temple foundation. The opponents began harassing the restoration efforts and at this point and these challenges were met by the prophets Haggai and Zachariah. Spiritual renewal began with Ezra's reforms and a prayer of confession for the returnees' sins and their expression of remorse. Further amendments included insisting the Jewish people put aside their foreign wives so as not to synchronize pagan beliefs with their own. Outline: 1. Restoration of the Temple (1:1-6:22) A. Return under Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel (1:1-2:70) B. Rebuilding the Temple Under Zerubbabel and Jeshua (3:1-6:22) 2. Reformation of the People (7:1-10:44) A. Ezra leads the Second Return from Persia to Jerusalem (7:1-8:36) B. Ezra leads reformation among the people (9:1-10:44)

Ish-Bosheth 1010-1011 BC. (2 Years)

Name: Ishball = "man of Baal" Book Found: 2 Samuel chapters 2-4 Setting: Israel Role: King of United Kingdom of Israel Events: Transition from Saul to David as king. Relations: King Saul, Johnathan, Michael, Abner Key figures: King Saul, David, King Saul's fourth son who succeeded him after this death. He approximately two years until David began his reign. He was murdered by two of his captains after his cousin Abner defected to David over a disagreement about his taking one of Saul's concubines Rizpah. David then had the murderers put to death.

Naomi (Mara)

Name: Naomi=Pleasantness, Mara: Bitterness Book Found: Ruth: Setting: Moab to Bethlehem Role: Stepmother to Ruth Relations: Boaz, Ruth, Obed, Elimelech Wife to Elimelech, Naomi had two children, Mahlon and Chilion, both of who died along with her husband. The families willingness to give up their God-given land inheritance and move to a hostile region created issues by itself. Without the ability to purchase back her heritage lot and with no one to financially support her in her old age, Naomi was left to the care of the welfare system of Israel and her step-daughter. When Boaz, a relative of Naomi, displays and interest in Ruth by providing for the two ladies, Naomi proposed a plan. Ruth would propose marriage to Boaz by sleeping at Boaz's feet and uncovering them to symbolize her interest in marriage. Boaz did eventually take Ruth as his wife and both women were brought under his protection.

Jeshua

Name: Salvation, Saved Book Found: Ezra Setting: Post exilic Jerusalem Role: Temple rebuilder Events: Temple reconstruction and altar establishment Key figures: Zerubbabel, Sheshbazzar, Ezra One of the leaders who helped rebuild the temple along side Zerubbabel during the first return of the Jews to Israel after their seventy year exile under Babylonian rule.

Joel

Name: Yo'el (Heb)="Yahweh is God" Author: Joel Covers: No chronological data is given, different composition date arguments given based on internal factors. Date: 835-825 BC? Prophesied to: Judah Concerning/Message: Theme: Key Words: Day of the Lord Key Figures: Pethuel (Father) Not much is actually known about Joel except for internal clues which help narrow down a timeline, location or the then current events. Conservative scholars prefer the preexilic dates due to the references to the Valley of Jehoshaphat (3:12). Also the enemies listed are preexilic: Tyre, Sidon, Philistia, Egypt, Edom and the Sabeans. IT does NOT mention Assyria, Babylon or Persia. Outline: 1. The Locust Plague and the Call to Repent (1:1-20) In the aftermath of a severe locust plague, Joel called the people of Israel to the repentance. Locusts were often compared to invading armies in early literature, as well as being one of the covenant curses Moses warned about should Israel disobey the Lords commands. This crisis called for the people to repent and attend a public assembly to confess their sins and pray for forgiveness and mercy. Failure to repent would bring more judgment and the "Day of the Lord" was near and He would bring about even greater destruction upon Israel. 2. The Imminent Day of the Lord and a Call to Repent (2:1-17) THis swarm of locusts signaled a call to repent for the sake of Israel's salvation and ongoing relationship with God. 3. The Ultimate Day of the Lord (2:18-32) Joel's message goes into the anticipation of a future of restoration where Israel would be at peace and the Lord would pour out His Spirit on his people. In time, rather than giving his direct blessing to selected leaders, He would spill His soul out onto all kinds of people. This promise reflects the prophesies of Isaiah (Isa 59:21) and Ezekiel (Ezi (36:26-27). 4. The Future Judgment of the Nations (3:1-21) The restoration of Israel would involve the judgment of other nations in retribution for their mistreatment of Israel. This section correlates Joel's opening of the "Day of the Lord" (1:15), and concludes with this day as a judgment for other nations. Then, Israel would reap a harvest against their enemies when they defeated them before enjoying a time of unending peace and prosperity.

Three Parables of Ezekiel

Prior to Judah's judgment and the Lords departure from Jerusalem, Ezekiel gave three parables to explain the reason for the coming destruction. First: Jerusalem was compared to a charred vine that was worthless for producing fruit, so the Lord would completely burn it up. Second: Jerusalem was portrayed as an unfaithful bride (Chap 16. ). Originally the city had origins as a Canaanite city, but God took it for His own city when it was abandoned like a baby in a field. He then raised Jerusalem and took her as His wife when she became a beautiful woman. However, despite the blessings the Lord showered her with, Jerusalem turned against Him and prostituted herself by worshiping other gods. In addition, she had made alliances with pagan nations. Third: Ezekiel illustrated Judah's political situations with a parable about two eagles, a cedar tree and a vine (Chap. 17). The first eagle cut off the top part of the tree, took it away and planted a vine in it's place. This referred to Nebuchadnezzar's taking Jehoiachin away and putting Zedekiah on the throne when he captured Jerusalem in 597 BC. The vine turned and attempted to make a bargain with the other eagle for help, referencing how Zedekiah tried to make an alliance with Egypt for assistance against the Babylonians. Judah kept looking for political and military alliances when their faith needed to rest solely on God. In the future, the Lord would turn a small sprig from the cedar into a great tree.

Judah (South Kingdom) Kings List

Rehoboam 931-913, Prophet: Shemiah Abijam: 913-911, Prophet: Iddo Asa: 911-870, Prophet: Azariah Jehosephat: 870-848, Prophet: Jahaziel Jehoram: 848-841, Prophet: Obabiah Ahaziah: 841 (1 year) Athlaiah: 841-835 Joash: 935-796, Prophet: Joel Amaziah: 796-767, Prophet: Unnamed prophet(s) Uzziah: 767-740, Prophet: Isaiah Jotham: 740-732, Prophets: Isaiah, Micah Ahaz: 732-716, Prophets: Isaiah, Micah Hezekiah: 716-687, Prophets: Isaiah, Micah Manasseh: 687-642, Prophets: Nahum Amon: 642-640 Josiah: 640-608 Prophets: Jeremiah, Zephaniah, Huldah Jehoahaz: 608 (3 months), Prophets: Jeremiah Jehoiakim: 608-597, Prophets: Jeremiah, Habakkuk, Daniel Jehoiachin: 597 (3 Months), Prophet: Jeremiah, Daniel Zedekiah: 597-586, Prophets: Jeremiah, Daniel.

Additional Prophets

Shemiah Iddo Azariah Jahaziel Ahijah Jehu Elijah Elisha Nathan

Seventy Sevens (Daniel)

The prophecy the angel Gabriel revealed to Daneil of the 70 "sevens"-70 sevens ("weeks") of years about the Jews ("your people") and Jerusalem ("Your holy city"). The 70x7 (490 years) would culminate in sealing "up vision and prophecy" and "anoint the most holy place" (v. 24). But after seven sevens and 62 sevens (69x7=483 years), the Messiah would be "cut off" (killed) and the city (Jerusalem) and the sanctuary (temple) would be destroyed (v. 26). The first 69 sevens (483 years) will begin with the decree to rebuild the city, presumably Artaxerxes' decree to Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem in 44 BC. It will culminate 483 years later with the death of the Messiah in AD 32. During the final "seven" years (the seventieth seven), the "coming prince" (Antichrist) will break his covenant with the Jews and bring about the "abomination of desolation" (v. 27).

Ezekiel's four sign acts (Ezekiel 4-5)

The sign acts were a portrayal of the siege of Jerusalem. 1: The prophet build a model of Jerusalem and built miniature siege works against it. He then placed an iron plate between himself and the city, showing how sin had separated the people from God and his protection. 2: Ezekiel lay on his side for 430 days to symbolize the accumulated sins of Israel and Judah. 3: The prophet then ate an assorted grain bread that was cooked over dung to illustrate the future famine in the city of Jerusalem when it was besieged. 4. Ezekiel then shaved his head and beard. Then he collected the hair and divided it into three piles. The first third was burned, the second cut up with a sword and the last was scattered to the wind. He kept a small portion tucked inside his belt to represent the small remnant that would survive the siege.

Daniels vision of the Four beasts (Daniel 7)

Winged Lion: This was a well known symbol of ancient Babylon. Bear: Represented the Meded and Persians. Four Headed Leopard: The four Hellenistic Kingdoms of Greece. Mystery Beast: Described as a monster with iron teeth, it represents the Roman Empire. The vision focused on the 10 horns of the fourth best and a little horn which came up after and eventually "made war with the holy ones" for three and one-half "time"(v. 21). This is called the the Beast or the Antichrist in the book of Revelations. God the Father is represented as the "Ancient of Days" who judges the little horn and presents the kingdom to Christ, who is designated as "a son of man". He will, in turn, share the greatness of the kingdom with the saints of God, who are pictured as true believers (v. 27).

Iddo (Prophet, Seer)

Zechariah's grandfather, his name appears in 2 Chronicles 9:29, 12:15, 13:22; Ezra 5:1, 6:14; Zechariah 1:1,1:7. He is referred to a both a prophet and seer and seems to have kept records dealing with genealogies. He served during the reign of Solomon, Rehoboam and Abijah.

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