Old Testament 1423205898, 9781423205890

Table of contents :
The Pentateuch
Genesis
Exodus
Leviticus
Numbers
Deuteronomy
Old TestamentHistory
Joshua
Judges
Ruth
1st Samuel
2nd Samuel
1st Kings
2nd Kings
1st Chronicles
2nd Chronicles
Ezra
Nehemiah
Esther
Wisdom, Literature& Poetry
Job
Psalms
Proverbs
Ecclesiastes
Song of Songs
Major Prophets
Isaiah
Jeremiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel
Minor Prophets
Hosea
Joel
Amos
Obadiah
Jonah
Micah
Nahum
Habakkuk
Zephaniah
Haggai
Zechariah
Malachi
Some Variations

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The Pentateuch (Torah, The Five Books of Moses)

Genesis

Bereshith [Heb.] i.e., “in the beginning,” from Gen. 1:1 Author: Moses Main characters: Adam, Eve: First man and woman; Cain, Abel: Sons of Adam and Eve; Noah: The single righteous man of his time and builder of the ark; Abraham: First of God’s “chosen people,” from whom God created the Nation of Israel; Jacob: Isaac’s son; Benjamin: The youngest of Jacob’s sons Date written: 1400 b.c.e. Setting: Tigris and Euphrates river valleys, Canaan, Egypt Main themes: Creation of the world, mankind’s fall, God’s response Major events: n God creates the universe (Gen. 1-2) n Adam and Eve have to leave the Garden of Eden because they disobeyed God (Gen. 3:14-19) n Cain kills Abel (Gen. 4:1-15) n Noah builds an ark to save his family and two of each animal on Earth from the coming flood (Gen. 6-9) n People from all regions come together to build the Tower of Babel in an attempt to see God (Gen. 11:1-9) n The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah destroyed because their inhabitants turned away from God (Gen. 18-19) n God tells Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac; Isaac spared because of Abraham’s faithfulness (Gen. 22) n In a dream, Jacob sees a ladder to Heaven (Gen. 28:10-17); in the dream, God says Jacob’s descendants will “cover the earth” n Jacob gives son Joseph a coat of many colors; God uses his brothers’ jealousy to bring Joseph to great power (Gen. 37:1-41)

Exodus

Shemot [Heb.] “And these are the names,” from Exod. 1:1

Author: Moses Main character: Moses: Israelite brought up in the Egyptian Pharaoh’s household Date written: 1445-1405 b.c.e. Setting: Egypt (Nile River delta), Sinai Main theme: God uses Moses to deliver Israelites from slavery; establishes the Tabernacle (tent) as place of worship Major events: n Israelites enslaved (Ex. 1) n Moses’ life and preparation for service (Ex. 2:1-3:6)



- God speaks through the burning bush, asking Moses to lead the Israelites (Ex. 3:1-6) - God brings 10 plagues against the Egyptian people to force the king to release the Israelites from slavery (Ex. 7-12) n Passover (Pesach) instituted when God spares the Israelites from the plagues by having them place lamb’s blood in their doorways (Ex. 12) n God parts the Red Sea (Reed Sea) to allow the Israelites to flee to safety (Ex. 14-15) n God presents the Ten Commandments (also called the Decalogue, i.e., Ten Words) to Moses at Sinai (Ex. 19-20) n The tabernacle (tent) is planned and built (Ex. 35-40)

Leviticus

Wayicra, also referred to as the “Holy Code” Author: Moses Main characters: Moses: Led Israelites to the Promised Land (Canaan); Aaron: Moses’ older brother and high priest of Israel Date written: 1400 b.c.e. Setting: Sinai wilderness Main theme: The giving of the law; how the Chosen People are to relate to God Major events: n The priesthood is established through Aaron (Lev. 8-10) n Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) established (Lev. 16) n Five annual feasts established - Passover (Pesach): Commemorates the sparing of the Hebrews in Egypt when the firstborn of the Egyptians were killed; began on the 14th day of Nisan and continued for a week (Lev. 23:5-8) - Feast of Weeks or Pentecost: Marked the close of the wheat harvest, celebrated 50 days after Passover (Lev. 23:15) - Feast of Trumpets or New Moon: Marked the beginning of the civil year, celebrated on the 1st day of the 7th month, and began the civil year of the Jews (Lev. 23:23-25) - Day of Atonement: Also known as Yom Kippur, the day where sins are ceremonially removed from God’s sight, observed 10 days later as a day of national penitence and mourning (Lev. 16, 23:26-32) - Feast of Tabernacles: Celebration of the final harvest and a reminder of the Hebrews’ 40 years in the desert (Lev. 23: 39-43) - General laws, and conditions for blessing, established (Lev. 25-27)

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Numbers

Bemidbar [Heb.] “In the Wilderness”

Author: Moses Main characters: Moses: Led Israelites to Canaan; Aaron: Moses’ brother and high priest of Israel; Miriam: Moses and Aaron’s sister Setting: Sinai, Kadesh Barnea, the plains of Moab Date written: 1400 b.c.e. Main theme: Israelites wander through the desert for 40 years Major events: n Moses’ leadership challenged (Num. 12) n 12 spies sent to Canaan to see if it can be conquered (Num. 13) n Israelites rebel against God (Num. 14) n Israelites wander in the desert 40 years (Num. 15-19) n Moses disrespects God and is denied entry into the Promised Land (Num. 20: 2-13) n Balaam’s donkey speaks (Num. 22:28-35) n God gives the boundaries of the Promised Land (Num. 34:1-12) n Cities of refuge established for those who caused the death of another person (Num. 35)

Deuteronomy

Second Law; Debarim [Heb.] “Words,” from opening phrase: “These are the words which Moses spake”

Authors: Moses and Joshua (wrote the last 8 verses) Main characters: Moses: Led the Israelites to Canaan; Joshua: Led the Israelites into Canaan and later captured the city of Jericho Date written: 1405 b.c.e. Setting: Plains of Moab east of the Jordan River Main theme: Preparation for the Promised Land, and a call to obedience Major events: n The Decalogue (10 “words,” or the Ten Commandments) repeated (Deut. 5:6-21) n Moses gives the great commandment to love God above all else (Deut. 6:4-5) n Code of law to be followed in Canaan revealed to the Israelites (Deut. 12-26) n Covenant ceremony: God will bless those who obey and curse those who disobey (Deut. 27-30) n Moses’ final words (Deut. 31-33) n Moses’ death on Mount Nebo (Deut. 34)

Old Testament History Joshua

Hebrew meaning: “Lord is Salvation”

Note: Sometimes the Book of Joshua is added to the Hebrew Torah (Pentateuch), thus being called the Hexateuch (Six Books) Author: Joshua Main characters: Joshua: Led the Israelites into Canaan; Eleazar: Aaron’s third son who succeeded his father as high priest Date written: 1380 b.c.e. Setting: Plains of Moab, Canaan Main theme: Conquest and division of Canaan Major events: n Invasion of Canaan by the Israelites (Josh. 1-5) n The wall at Jericho falls after an angel of the Lord tells Joshua how to win the battle (Josh. 6) n Canaanite kings from the south are defeated, the sun stands still (Josh. 10-11) n Canaan divided among tribes of Israel, cities of refuge established (Josh. 13-22) - Six cities of refuge were established to protect those who accidentally caused someone to die - Those who came to one of the cities were guaranteed a fair trial, and if found innocent, they were allowed to stay protected in the city n Joshua’s farewell addresses an account of his death (Josh. 23-24)

Judges

Hebrew Title: Shophetim

Author: Unknown; traditionally attributed to the prophet Samuel Main characters: Deborah: Judge who fought with the Israelites in the battle against the Canaanites; Barak: Called by Deborah to lead the army - agreed only if she went with him; Gideon: Judge of Israel instrumental in defeating the Midianites; Samson: Judge of Israel for 20 years whose feats of strength were legendary; Delilah: Philistine woman who found the source of Samson’s strength (his hair) and betrayed him to the Philistines Date written: 1050 b.c.e. Setting: Occupied regions of Canaan Main theme: Israel’s history of decline and oppression under 14 judges’ leadership Major events: n The people relapse into idolatry, Israel is oppressed; civil war is waged (Judges 3-16) n Gideon uses a fleece to be certain of God’s will (Judges 6:36-40) n Delilah betrays Samson (Judges 16:1-21) n Israel’s Dark Age begins: Anarchy and confusion are the norm because of the people’s moral lapses (Judges 17-21)

Ruth

Author: Unknown; tradition suggests the prophet Samuel Main characters: Ruth: Moabite widow, the grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Christ; Naomi: Ruth’s mother-in-law; Boaz: Wealthy man of Bethlehem who married the widowed Ruth Date written: 1050 b.c.e. Setting: Moab, Bethlehem Main theme: Ruth’s life is enriched against all odds; Boaz is the classic “savior” Major events: n Ruth becomes a widow (Ruth 1); rather than set off on her own, she is faithful to Naomi n Ruth gleans food in Boaz’s fields (Ruth 2) n Boaz marries Ruth (Ruth 4)

1st Samuel

Author: Unknown; possibly Nathan or Gad; Jewish tradition, Samuel, though all events in 1st Samuel 25-31 occurred after his death Main characters: Samuel (Hebrew meaning: “Name of God/God hears”): Prophet of God and last Israelite judge; Saul: Israel’s first king; David: Anointed by Samuel and often referred to as Israel’s greatest king Date written: 950 b.c.e. Setting: Israel and adjoining territories Main theme: Rule of judges ends and the monarchy is established Major events: n Young Samuel hears God’s voice in the night (1 Sam. 3) n The Ark of the Covenant captured, then returned when God strikes the captors with terrible diseases (1 Sam. 4-6) n Israel demands a king (1 Sam. 8) n Saul chosen as king (1 Sam. 9-10) n David anointed king (1 Sam. 16) n David slays the giant Goliath (1 Sam. 17) n David persecuted by Saul (1 Sam. 18:9-27:4) n Saul’s last years as king and his suicide (1 Sam. 26-31)

2nd Samuel

Author: Unknown; possibly Nathan or Gad; Jewish: Samuel (though it occurs after his death) Main characters: David: King who restores the Ark of the Covenant to its rightful place but was plagued by problems, including an adulterous affair and his failure as a parent; Bathsheba: Had an affair with King David, married him after he had her husband murdered; Absalom: Rebellious third son of David who was murdered despite the King’s order Date written: 950 b.c.e.

Setting: Israel and surrounding territories Main theme: The reign of King David Major events: n David moves the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem (2 Sam. 6) n God’s covenant with David (2 Sam. 7) n David’s adulterous affair with Bathsheba (2 Sam. 11) n David admits his sins after an encounter with the prophet Nathan (2 Sam. 12) n David’s son Absalom is killed (2 Sam. 18) n David’s Psalm of Thanksgiving (2 Sam. 22)

1st Kings

Author: Unknown; probably Jeremiah Main character: Solomon: 10th son of David who became king of Israel; known for his great wisdom, though in later years he turned to idolatry Date written: 550 b.c.e. Setting: Entire region of Israel, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Sheba, Phoenicia, Syria and Mesopotamia Main theme: The history of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel Major events: n King Solomon asks God for wisdom (1 Ki. 3:4-15) n Solomon’s wisdom shown when he settles dispute over a baby (1 Ki. 3:16-28) n Solomon builds the temple for the Lord; followed by a period of political stability (1 Ki. 5-7) n Israel divided into Northern and Southern kingdoms (1 Ki. 12:1-16:20) n Elijah’s (see 2nd Kings) ministry and his efforts against the prophets of the pagan god Baal (1 Ki. 17-19; 21)

2nd Kings Author: Unknown; probably Jeremiah Main characters: Elijah: Prophet of God who spoke against the prophets of Baal; later taken up into Heaven without dying; Elisha: Elijah’s successor as prophet Date written: 550 b.c.e. Setting: Entire region of Israel, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Sheba, Phoenicia, Syria and Mesopotamia Main theme: The history of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel Major events: n Elijah calls down fire from heaven to destroy his enemies, later rides to Heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Ki. 1-2) n Elisha raises a boy from the dead (2 Ki. 4:18-37) n Northern kingdom of Israel captured and taken into exile by the Assyrians (2 Ki. 17:1-18)

Old Testament Timeline Death of Adam: 3045 B.C.E.

Tower of Babel constructed/languages in­troduced: 2234 B.C.E.

Abraham called: 1921 B.C.E.

Israel enslaved in Egypt: 1875-1446 B.C.E.

2400 2300 2200 2100 2000 1900 1800 The Flood: 2348 B.C.E.

Death of Noah: 2126 B.C.E.

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Sodom and Gomorrah destroyed: 1892 B.C.E.

Joseph becomes governor of Egypt: 1884 B.C.E.

Jacob’s family enters Egypt: 1876 B.C.E.

n The Book of the Law found while the temple is being repaired (2 Ki. 22) n Jerusalem is captured; southern kingdom of Judah taken into exile by the Babylonians (2 Ki. 25)

1st Chronicles

Author: Unknown; probably compiled by numerous sources and edited by the prophet Ezra Main characters: Saul: First king of Israel; David: Composer of many Psalms and considered by many to be Israel’s greatest king; Solomon: King of Israel known for his great wisdom Date written: 450 b.c.e. Setting: Territory of Israel, Judah, Babylonia Main theme: Recalling Judah’s former glory, calling the people back to God; recounts many of the activities of 2nd Kings Major events: n Genealogies of the Israelites recorded (1 Ch. 1-9) n Overthrow and death of Saul (1 Ch. 10) n David ascends to the throne and assembles an army of mighty men (1 Ch. 11-12) n David brings the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem (1 Ch. 13, 15) n God’s covenant with David (1 Ch. 17) n Solomon made king; David’s death (1 Ch. 28-29)

2nd Chronicles

Author: Unknown; probably compiled by numerous sources and edited by Ezra Main character: Solomon: Third king of Israel, known for his wisdom, but later falls into idolatry Date written: 450 b.c.e. Setting: Territory of Israel, Judah, Babylonia Main theme: The virtues of wisdom Main events: n Solomon asks God for wisdom (2 Ch. 1:7-12)

Wisdom, Literature & Poetry Job Author: Unknown; Jewish tradition: Moses Major character: Job: Righteous man who refused to denounce God even in the midst of great suffering Date written: Unknown; regarded by many scholars as the oldest book in the Bible; events could have occurred about 2000 b.c.e. Setting: The land of Uz

n Solomon builds the temple in Jerusalem (1 Ch. 2-4) n Israel splits into northern and southern kingdoms (2 Ch. 10) n The Book of the Law is found during temple repairs (2 Ch. 34:14-33) n Judah taken into exile by the Babylonians (2 Ch. 36:1-21)

Ezra

Hebrew meaning: “Help”

Author: Compiled and partially written by Ezra Main characters: Cyrus: King of Persia who released the Jews from captivity in Babylon and restored the sacred vessels of the temple; Ezra: A high priest and scribe; Zerubbabel: Led the first colony of Jews back to Jerusalem and laid the foundation for the new temple Date written: 425 b.c.e. Setting: Babylon, Jerusalem Main theme: Return of the Jews from captivity in Babylon Major events: n King Cyrus frees the Jews from captivity (Ezra 1:1-4) n The temple at Jerusalem is rebuilt and the Jews resume making sacrifices to God (Ezra 3:10-6:22) n Ezra’s prayer and confession as a sign of the people’s obedience to God (Ezra 9)

Nehemiah

Hebrew meaning: “Jehovah has comforted”

Author: Unknown; much of the book is regarded as an autobiography of Nehemiah; Jewish tradition: Ezra Main character: Nehemiah: Governor of Judea instrumental in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem Date written: 425 b.c.e. Setting: Persia, Jerusalem

Main theme: While God permits suffering, God is also compassionate and merciful Major events: n Satan permitted by God to test Job through the loss of his property and children (Job 1) n Satan is allowed to strike Job with a terrible disease (Job 2:1-8) n Job’s wife pleads with him to “curse God and die” (Job 2:9) n Job finally complains to God (Job 3) n God answers Job (Job 38-39, 40:7-41:34) n Job prays for his friends; his prosperity is restored (Job 42:10-17)

Main theme: Rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, social and religious reforms embraced Major events: n Nehemiah hears of Jerusalem’s desperate condition (Ne. 1) n Nehemiah leads Jerusalem in rebuilding the walls (Ne. 2-6) n The walls of Jerusalem are completed in 52 days, then dedicated (Ne. 12) n Social and religious reforms instituted (Ne. 13)

Esther

Ishtar, a Babylonian Goddess, “Star”

Author: Unknown; Esther’s cousin Mordecai may have written part of the book; Jewish tradition: The Men of the Great Synagogue (a council of 120 men who transcribed words revealed by others, promulgating many laws, ordinances and regulations, including the Feast of Purim and the curriculum of study in the three main branches of Jewish learning) Main characters: Esther: Jewish woman who became queen of Persia; Ahasuerus: King of Persia; Haman: Prime minister under Ahasuerus who plotted to kill Mordecai and destroy the Jews; Mordecai: Close relative of Esther who thwarted Haman’s plan Date written: 465 b.c.e. Setting: Shushan (one of 3 royal cities in the Persian empire) Main theme: Queen Esther helps the Jews escape extermination Major events: n Esther chosen to be queen of Persia after former queen Vashti is deposed (Est. 1) n Haman plans to destroy the Jews (Est. 3) n Esther foils Haman’s plan and Haman is hanged (Est. 7) n Feast of Purim instituted in memory of Esther and the deliverance of the Jews (Est. 9:20-31)

Psalms

Hebrew designation: “Praises” Authors: Moses (1), David (73), the Levitical singing-clan of Asaph (12), Korah (11), Heman (1), Ethan (1), Solomon (2), Haggai (1), Zechariah (1), Ezra (1), the remainder (46) are anonymous Date written: 1050-950 b.c.e. Setting: Entire world as it was known to the Israelites Main themes: Individual laments, national laments, expressions of remorse, thanksgiving, praise, wisdom, songs of ascent, royal psalms, Messianic psalms, enthronement psalms, curses against the enemies of God and God’s people

Crossing the Jordan: 1451 b.c.e. Exodus from Egypt: 1491 B.C.E.

Judges begin leading Israel: 1394 b.c.e.

Gideon serves as judge: 1249 b.c.e.

Samuel serves as judge: 1117 b.c.e.

David becomes king: 1055 b.c.e.

1700 1600 1500 1400 1300 1200 1100 Birth of Moses: 1571 B.C.E.

Joshua appointed leader: 1452 B.C.E.

Dividing the land/conquest of Canaan: 1451-1444 b.c.e.

Othniel serves as judge: 1394 b.c.e.

3

Eli serves as judge: 1157 b.c.e.

Saul becomes king: 1095 b.c.e.

Familiar references: n “Why do the nations rage and the people plot in vain?” (Ps. 2:1) n “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me…?” (Ps. 22:1) n “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” (Ps. 23:1) n “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all you lands.” (Ps. 100:1) n “Your Word is a lamp unto my feet, a light unto my path.” (Ps. 119:105) n “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.” (Ps. 130:1)

Proverbs

n “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Prov. 3:5) n “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Prov. 16:18) n “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Prov. 22:6) n “Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.” (Prov. 3:10)

Ecclesiastes

from the Hebrew Qohelet, meaning: “The Preacher”

31 chapters of brief statements on moral matters

Author: Unknown; probably Solomon; Hebrew tradition: Hezekiah and his company Date written: 935 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem Main theme: Emptiness of life lived without God; necessity of faith Major ideas/concepts: n The vanity of life (Ecc. 1:1-2) n Natural man’s search for satisfaction and happiness (Ecc. 1:12-2:26) n Study of social evils apart from faith (Ecc. 4:1-16)

Major Prophets

n “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Is. 40:31)

Authors: The majority (about 3,000) come from Solomon; remainder attributed to “the wise” to Agur and to King Lemuel Date written: 970-930 b.c.e. wit h additions included about 700 b.c.e. Setting: Babylon and Jerusalem primarily Main theme: Wisdom for daily life Familiar references: n “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” (Prov. 1:7)

Isaiah

Hebrew meaning: “Salvation of Jehovah”

Author: Isaiah (although some scholars think as many as three authors wrote the book) Main characters: Isaiah: Eighth century prophet who prophesied through the reign of four kings and is among the best known of the prophets; Hezekiah: King of Judah who repaired the temple and rooted out Canaanite worship; Ahaz: King of Judah; reigned for 16 years but did not respect God and died in dishonor Date written: 700 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem and the surrounding region Main theme: Israel’s judgment and salvation Familiar references: n “They shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.” (Is. 2:4) n “I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me.’ ” (Is. 6:8) n “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder. And His name shall be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Is. 9:6)

Solomon begins construction of the temple: 1016 b.c.e.

Jeremiah

Hebrew meaning: “Jehovah founds/exalts”

Author: Jeremiah Main character: Jeremiah: Priest and prophet prior to the Babylonian captivity of the Jews; urged the people to turn back to God; many scholars attribute the foretelling of the coming of the Messiah Date written: 560 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem, Babylon, Egypt primarily Main theme: Judah’s unfaithfulness to God will be the cause of its destruction Major events: n Jeremiah called to be a prophet (Jer. 1) n Prophecies concerning Judah (Jer. 2-45) n Prophecies concerning other nations (Jer. 46-51) n Epilogue (Jer. 52)

Lamentations

A sequel to Jeremiah Author: No author named, but scholars agree it was probably the prophet Jeremiah Main character: Jeremiah: Priest and prophet prior to the Babylonian captivity of the Jews; urged the people to turn back to God or risk abandonment

Captivity of Israel: 721 b.c.e.

Division of Israel into 2 kingdoms: 975 b.c.e.

Song of Songs

Also called Song of Solomon or the Canticles

Author: Solomon; Hebrew tradition: Hezekiah and his company Date written: 960 b.c.e. Setting: Canaan Main theme: Interpreted several ways: An allegorical expression of the love of God for Israel, of Christ for the church, or, an attempt to elevate the beauty of sex in marriage Major themes: n Love begins (SS. 1-3:5) n Marriage of the lovers (SS. 3:6-5:1) n Love matures (SS. 5:2-8:7) n Meditation on/affirmation of love (SS. 8:8-14) Date written: 586 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem, Babylon, Egypt primarily Main theme: Sin breeds destruction Major events: n The devastation of Jerusalem and the misery of the exiles because of their sins (Lam. 1) n God gives the Israelites over to a desolate fate (Lam. 2) n Jeremiah is grieved over the Israelites, but he continues to trust in God (Lam. 3) n Contrast between Israel’s former glory and present state of decay (Lam. 4) n The Israelites call out to God for mercy (Lam. 5)

Ezekiel

Hebrew meaning: “God Strengthens”

Author: Ezekiel; Hebrew tradition: The Men of the Great Synagogue Main character: Ezekiel: Priest (and one of the most well known prophets) who prophesied that the Jews were exiled because of their sinfulness Date written: 570 b.c.e. Setting: Babylon, Jerusalem and surrounding areas Main theme: God’s expectations for Israel Major events: n Ezekiel is called and commissioned by God (Ezek. 1-3:27)

Esther made Queen: 479 b.c.e.

King Cyrus allows the Jews in Babylon to return to Jerusalem: 535 b.c.e.

1000 900 800 Solomon becomes king: 1015 b.c.e.

n Civil duty, uncertainty of life, certainty of divine judgment, the work of God and humanity (Ecc. 8:117) n Contrast between wisdom and folly (Ecc. 10) n The highest duty of humanity (Ecc. 12:8-14)

Captivity of Judah: 587 b.c.e.

700 Dedication of the temple: 516 b.c.e.

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600

500

Nehemiah returns to Jerusalem and begins repairs: 445 b.c.e.

400

n Visions, warnings and predictions concerning the people’s guilt and Jerusalem’s pending destruction (Ezek. 4-24) n The fall of Jerusalem (Ezek. 33:21) n Predictions and promises outlining the nation’s restoration (Ezek. 33-48)

Daniel

Hebrew meaning: “Jehovah is my Judge” Author: Daniel; Hebrew tradition: The Men of the Great Synagogue Main characters: Daniel: A prophet during the Babylonian exile who was promoted to a high position in King

Minor Prophets Hosea

Hebrew meaning: “Salvation”

Author: Hosea Main characters: Hosea: Prophesied through most of the last half of the eighth century; Gomer: A prostitute who became Hosea’s wife as a sign of God’s love for unfaithful Israel Date written: 729 b.c.e. Setting: Israel’s northern kingdom Main theme: Rebelling against God is spiritual adultery Major events: n God tells Hosea to marry an adulterous woman (Gomer) as a symbol of Israel’s apostasy (Hos. 1-2:1) n Israel punished and restored (Hos. 2:2-23) n God’s charge against Israel because of the people’s unfaithfulness (Hos. 4-5:7) n Israel condemned for rejecting God (Hos. 9:10-10:15) n God loves Israel despite the fact the people “hardened their hearts” against Him (Hos. 11:1-11) n Israel’s sins and coming judgment because of their persistent rebellion (Hos. 11:12-13:16) n Invitation for Israel to repent and be restored (Hos. 14:1-9)

Joel

Hebrew meaning: “Jehovah is God”

Author: Joel Main character: Joel: Prophet who used a locust plague as an illustration of what would happen if the Israelites didn’t repent Date written: 835 b.c.e. Setting: Southern nation of Judah Main theme: The blessings of repentance Major events: n A time of judgment (Joel 1-2:10) - Plague of locusts (Joel 1:4-9) - Severe drought (Joel 1:10-20) - Land devastated by invaders (Joel 2:1-10) n People called to penitence and prayer (Joel 2:12-17) n The deliverance and blessings to come (Joel 2:18-3:21)

Nebuchadnezzar’s court after interpreting the king’s dreams; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: Daniel’s companions who, through divine intervention, survived being thrown into a furnace; Nebuchadnezzar: King of Babylon who destroyed Jerusalem and brought the captive Jews to Babylon Date written: 537 b.c.e. Setting: Babylon Main theme: God’s sovereignty over the affairs of people Major events: n Daniel and his three friends refuse to eat the king’s food; instead, they thrive on vegetables (Dan. 1)

Amos

Hebrew meaning: “Burden-bearer”

Author: Amos Main character: Amos: A shepherd turned prophet; from Tekoah Date written: 755 b.c.e. Setting: Northern kingdom of Israel Main theme: Religious observances no substitute for showing mercy Major events: n Impending judgments on the surrounding nations (Amos 1:3-15; 2:1-3) n Discourses against Judah and Israel (Amos 2:4-5; 2:6-16) n Israel called to sincerely seek God (Amos 5) n Series of five visions portray the imminence of the Day of Doom and the dispersion of the northern tribes (Amos 7-9:10) n A message of hope for the future (Amos 9:11-15)

Obadiah

Hebrew meaning: “Servant of Jehovah”

Author: Obadiah Main character: Obadiah: One of the more obscure prophets, little is known about him Date written: 587 b.c.e. or end of t he 8th century b.c.e. Setting: Edom (near the Red Sea) Main theme: God judges those who harm His people Major events: n Edom’s doom is announced (Ob. 1:2-9) n The reason for Edom’s doom: Hostility toward Israel (Ob. 1:10-14) n The deliverance of Israel, the coming day of the Lord (Ob. 1:15-21)

Jonah

Hebrew meaning: “Dove”

Author: Jonah Major character: Jonah: Prophet during the early eighth century Date written: 760 b.c.e. Setting: Nineveh (capital of Assyria) Main theme: Those who are shown mercy should not begrudge mercy to others 5

n Daniel interprets King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and is rewarded a position of power in the kingdom (Dan. 2) n Divine intervention saves Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego when they are thrown into a fiery furnace (Dan. 3) n Nebuchadnezzar goes mad and lives like a wild animal (Dan. 4) n Daniel interprets the handwriting on the wall and tells King Balshazzar his days are numbered (Dan. 5) n Divine intervention saves Daniel when he is thrown into the lion’s den (Dan. 6) n Visions and prophecies about God’s hand in history (Dan. 7-12)

Major events: n Jonah called to preach in Nineveh, but runs away to sea to escape God (Jnh. 1:1-3) n Jonah swallowed by a big fish (Jnh. 1:4-17) n Jonah’s rescue and prayer of thanksgiving (Jnh. 2:1-10) n Jonah obeys when called to preach in Ninevah a second time (Jnh. 3:1-10) n Nineveh repents and Jonah resents God’s mercy toward the city (Jnh. 4:1-11)

Micah

Short for Micaiah, “Michael” Author: Micah Main character: Micah: Prophet known for his denouncement of social injustice Date written: 700 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem, Samaria Main theme: Yahweh (God) is God of all nations Major events: n God condemns the sins of Jerusalem and Samaria (Mic. 1:2-16) n Micah promises God will deliver the people (Mic. 3-4) n The birthplace of the Messiah foretold (Mic. 5:2) n God’s case against Jerusalem because of their ingratitude (Mic. 6:1-16) n Micah’s lament over fallen state of mankind (Mic. 7:1-7) n Hope for the future (Mic. 7:8-20)

Nahum

Short for Nehemiah,

“Jehovah has comforted” Author: Nahum Main character: Nahum: Prophet who lived during the last half of the seventh century Date written: 650 b.c.e. Setting: Southern Judah Main theme: Nineveh’s coming judgment Major events: n Nineveh’s ruin and Judah’s salvation (Na. 1:9-2:2) n Description of the siege of Nineveh (Na. 2:3-2:13) n Nahum’s pronouncement of doom over Nineveh (Na. 3)

Habakkuk

Hebrew meaning: “Embrace”

Author: Habakkuk Main character: Habakkuk: Prophet who may have witnessed the fall of the Assyrian empire and the rise of the Babylonian empire in the latter half of the seventh century Date written: 607 b.c.e. Setting: Judah, Babylon Main theme: The mysteries of divine intervention Major events: n Habakkuk asks God why Judah’s wickedness goes unpunished (Hab. 1:1-4) n God reveals His plan to use the Babylonians as an instrument of justice (Hab. 1:5-11) n Habakkuk asks how God can use “wicked heathen” to destroy righteous people (Hab. 1:12-17) n God replies that the Babylonians will be judged, too (Hab. 2:2-20) n Habakkuk’s song of trust and delight in God (Hab. 3:1-19)

Zephaniah Hebrew meaning: “Hidden of Jehovah”

Author: Zephaniah Main character: Zephaniah (He whom the Lord has hidden) Date written: 625 b.c.e. Setting: Judah and the surrounding area Main theme: The judgment of God in the Day of the Lord Major events: n The lineage of Zephaniah (Zep. 1:1) n Prophesy of the day of Yahweh coming against Judah (Zep. 1:2-18) n Judgment on the surrounding area detailed (Zep. 2:1-3:8) n The glorious future of Israel (Zep. 3:14-20)

Some Variations

The Hebrew Bible n Tanakh, from the initials Torah (Direction, Teaching Law), Nevi’im (Prophets), Ketubim (Writings) n Divided into three sections: • The Torah, or Pentateuch, consisting of five books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy • The Prophets (Nevi’im) - Former or Historical Prophets (Joshua, Judges, 1st/2nd Samuel, 1st/2nd Kings)

Author: Thomas Smith, M. Div. Editor: Joseph Abraham Levi, PhD

Haggai

Hebrew meaning: “Festal”

Author: Haggai (the prophet of the temple) Main character: Haggai: This prophet encouraged the returned exiles to rebuild the temple Date written: 520 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem after the exile in Babylon Main theme: The role of the temple as part of the Jewish identity Major events: n God speaks through Haggai; God’s blessings are withheld because the temple has been left in ruins (Hag. 1:3-11) n Words of encouragement as the rebuilding begins (Hag. 1:12-15) n The future glory of the temple revealed (Hag. 2:1-9) n God’s blessings given to those who helped rebuild the temple (Hag. 2:10-19) n God’s message of hope to Zerubbabel (Hag. 2:20-23)

Zechariah

Hebrew meaning: “Jehovah remembers”

Author: Zechariah Main character: Zechariah: Prophet whose name means the Lord has remembered Date written: 520 b.c.e. (appr oximat el y t wo months after Haggai’s prophecy) Setting: Jerusalem Main theme: God’s encouragement to those rebuilding the temple Major events: n Vision 1: The Horsemen: God’s return to Jerusalem (Zech. 1:7-17) n Vision 2: Four horns destroyed: The end of the captors (Zech. 1:18-21) n Vision 3: Jerusalem can’t be measured: Return to prosperity (Zech. 2:1-13) n Vision 4: The high priest reinstated: The coming of the Davidic king (Zech. 3:1-10) n Vision 5: The lampstand and olive trees: God’s presence (Zech. 4:1-14) n Vision 6: The flying scroll: Evil banished from Judah (Zech. 5:1-4)

- Latter Prophets: Major prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel); minor prophets (Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi) • The Hagiographa (Ketubim, or “Holy Writings”), consisting of the books: the Psalms, Proverbs, Job, the Five Scrolls (megillot, plural of megillah): Ruth, Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes, Lamentations, Esther, as well as Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, Chronicles I and Chronicles II

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n Vision 7: The woman in the basket: Wickedness exiled to Babylon (Zech. 5:5-11) n Vision 8: The four chariots: God rests and the high priest is crowned (Zech. 6:1-15) n The coming Messiah and the kingdom; punishment and reward will be meted (Zech. 9:1-14:21)

Malachi

Hebrew meaning: “Messenger of Jehovah,” or “My messenger”

Author: Malachi (a contemporary of Nehemiah) Main character: Malachi: The last of the minor prophets and the last prophet in the Old Testament Date written: 420 b.c.e. Setting: Jerusalem Main theme: The dangers of spiritual apathy and indifference; many reforms needed to pave the way for the Messiah Major events: n The sins of the people and the priests - Failure to respond to God’s love (Mal. 1:2) - Dishonoring God’s name (Mal. 1:6) - Presenting sub-standard offerings (Mal. 1:7, 8, 13-14) - Priests corrupt the law (Mal. 2:1-8) - Sinners honored (Mal. 2:17, 3:15) - Tithes withheld (Mal. 3:8) - Impiety justified (Mal. 3:14) n Social sins - Intermarriage with unbelievers (Mal. 2:11) - Sorcery, impurity, oppression (Mal. 3:5) n Bright promises - Outpouring of great blessing (Mal. 3:10-12) - The saints become God’s special treasure (Mal. 3:16-18) - A new day of righteousness (Mal. 4:2-3) n The promise of a great spiritual reformer; a second Elijah (Mal. 4:5-6)

The Apocrypha (Greek for “Hidden/Secret Books,” Hebrew: Ganaz “to store away/hide”) • Considered canonical by Catholics and most Orthodox churches, but not by Jews and most Protestant denominations • The Roman Catholic Old Testament contains 43 books - the 39 chapters of the Hebrew Bible + 7 apocryphal books: Tobit, Judith; I Maccabees; II Maccabees; Esdras; Ecclesiasticus (The Wisdom of Ben Sira/ Sirach); Baruch • Also contains additions to Daniel (Dn. 3, 24-90; 13; 14) and Esther (Est. 10, 4-16; 24)

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NOTE TO STUDENT: Due to its condensed format, use it as a guide, but not as a replacement for assigned class work.

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