(DK) The Religions Book (Big Ideas Simply Explained) 2018

THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 99

See also: Sodom and Gomorrah 48–49 ■ Covenants 44–47 ■ Entering the
Promised Land 96–97 ■ The Nature of Faith 236–41


provides fresh water, while the
city’s granaries are full to bursting
with freshly harvested grain.

The faith of Rahab
To find out as much as he can Cursed before the Lord
about the city’s defenses, Joshua is the one who undertakes,
sends two followers—Caleb and the to rebuild this city, Jericho.
high priest Eleazar—to spy on the Joshua 6:26 Archaeological finds
city. Once inside Jericho, the men at Jericho
rest for the night in the house of a
woman named Rahab near the city One of the oldest continually
gates. Rahab, either a prostitute or inhabited cities in the world,
innkeeper according to different ancient Jericho is a site of
translations, is soon faced with a considerable archaeological
dilemma. The Israelites have been march around the city seven times. importance. Excavations
spotted and the king’s guards are The priests must then blow a last show that the first settlements
in pursuit. Rahab hides the spies blast on the trumpets while the appeared about 8000 bce and
under stalks of flax drying on her people raise a mighty shout. were repeatedly destroyed
roof and tells the guards that the Joshua does what God has and rebuilt over the following
men left at dusk. ordered. After the final trumpet millennia. However, while it is
When the coast is clear, Rahab blast and the shout, the walls of the clear that the city was invaded
helps the Israelites escape. She city crumble and fall down flat. at some point in its history,
says, “The Lord your God is God in Joshua’s soldiers storm into Jericho, most archaeologists dispute
the biblical account.
heaven above and on the earth slaughtering its inhabitants and British archaeologist
below” (Joshua 2:11). They promise then burning it to the ground. Kathleen Kenyon, who worked
that she and her family will be Rahab and her family are spared. at Jericho in the 1950s,
spared when the Israelites attack. concluded that Jericho did not
She is told to hang a scarlet thread, God’s triumph exist at the time Joshua is said
or cord, out of her window as a The Israelite victory is complete. to have conquered it. Jericho,
signal to keep her home safe. The God has shown the Israelites Kenyon postulated, was
spies report back to Joshua that, He is on their side and Joshua’s destroyed, but it was by the
although Jericho’s defenses are unwavering obedience to God has Hyksos of northern Egypt in
strong, its people are demoralized allowed them to prosper under his around 1550 bce, about 150
by the Israelite threat. leadership. However, the story of a years earlier than the biblical
While Joshua considers his best city razed to the ground, its women account. Kenyon’s findings
strategy, a man carrying a drawn and children slaughtered, unsettles also suggest that the city
sword appears before him. Some many modern readers, to whom wall, which previously had
been dated to the time of the
biblical scholars say this is the indiscriminate destruction is Israelites, actually dates from
angel of the Lord, but others argue incompatible with the concept of the early Bronze Age, 1,000
that it is God himself. The figure an ethical God. The explanation, years before. However, the
tells Joshua exactly what he must perhaps, lies in the conquest being story of the Israelite conquest
do. He is to march his soldiers in a metaphor for the power of faith may have some credence. It
silence around Jericho once a day and obedience. The character of is possible that the Israelites
for six days, bearing the Ark of the Rahab is key. Although she is a conquered a town that had
Covenant and preceded by the foreigner, and possibly a prostitute, sprung up on the ruins of an
priests blowing rams’ horns. On the she is redeemed through her faith earlier settlement.
seventh day, the Israelites are to and good works. ■





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100 IN BRIEF

HAS NOT PASSAGE


Judges 4–8

THEME
THE LORD Deliverance by the judges
SETTING
13th century bce During the
settlement of Canaan, the
GONE AHEAD Promised Land.

KEY FIGURES
Gideon One of the 12 judges.
Chosen by God to help the
OF YOU? Israelites seize victory over
the Midianites.
Abimelech Gideon’s son
who proclaims himself king
JUDGES 4:14, GIDEON AND THE JUDGES against God’s will and sets
in motion the next cycle of
decline for the Israelites.

The Midianites A semi-
nomadic people from east
of the Jordan, who fight
against Israel.







he story of Gideon is
typical of the events of the
T Book of Judges. It follows
a familiar cycle of disobedience,
punishment, repentance, and
deliverance, as the Israelites yet
again struggle to remain faithful
to their God. Gideon becomes the
instrument of God’s intervention,
and his miraculous military victory
serves to set the people back on the
right path, if only temporarily.
Fractious tribes
The Book of Judges began as a
cycle of sagas about tribal heroes.
These were pulled together into a
single book probably in the late
7th century bce, with additions





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 101

See also: Moses and the Burning Bush 66–69 ■ The Fall of Jericho 98–99 ■
The Exodus 74–77 ■ The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31


and revisions made after the fall Midianites” (Judges 6:1). The effect
of Jerusalem in 586 bce. The book of the Midianites and their allies
covers the troubled period in the Amalekites is compared to a
Israel’s history between the arrival swarm of locusts in its devastation
of the tribes in Canaan between (Judges 6:5). The land is ravaged
the 14th to 13th century bce and the and the Israelites are forced to
establishment of the monarchy in seek refuge in caves and valleys.
1050 bce. Judges depicts the From a historical perspective, this
Israelites as living in fractious sounds like a description of the
tribes; it is a messier but almost sufferings of settled farmers at
certainly more accurate picture the hands of herder overlords who
than the preceding Book of Joshua. exact brutal harvest-time tributes.
The book proposes to follow The desperate Israelites finally
the fortunes of 12 judge-deliverers, remember God and cry out to Him,
perhaps to match the 12 tribes. but His initial response is to send
In fact, four of these receive only an anonymous prophet to remind Deborah
minimal mention. Along with them of His record of saving them As well as being the only
Gideon, the major stories are those and rebuke their ingratitude (6:7–8). female judge, Deborah is the
of Deborah and her general Barak, Following this, God (or His only one shown exercising a
Jephthah, and Samson. angel) appears to a young man, judicial role. She lives in the
Gideon, who is secretly threshing hills of Ephraim by a landmark
The people suffer wheat inside a winepress, hoping palm tree, where people come
Gideon gets the fullest treatment, to escape the attention of to have their disputes settled.
his story starting, in a familiar way, marauding Midianites. The The wife of a man called
with Israel’s disobedience: “Again exchange that follows has parallels Lappidoth, she is described
the Israelites did evil in the eyes with the calling of Moses at the as a charismatic prophet.
of the Lord, and for seven years burning bush. The angel greets In her time, Israel suffers
He gave them into the hands of the Gideon, perhaps ironically, as a under the Canaanite king of
“mighty warrior” (6:12) and tells Hazor and his general Sisera.
him that God is with him. However, When God tells Deborah to
call up the army of the general
Gideon’s response is bitter, and Barak, she rides with it into
he says God appears to have battle. A sudden rainstorm
abandoned the Israelites. The angel helps Barak’s army defeat the
replies: “Go in the strength you Canaanites, but Deborah
have and save Israel out of Midian’s warns that honor of the
hand. Am I not sending you?” (6:14). victory will go to a woman.
An alarmed Gideon, like Moses This becomes true, when
before him, protests his weakness Sisera is killed by a woman
and insignificance. The angel called Jael with just a tent
simply reasserts that Gideon is peg. Judges tells the story
the one who is going to strike of this victory twice, first in
prose, then in poetry, in the
down the Midianites. ❯❯
Song of Deborah. This is
believed to be one of the
Gideon’s fleece is covered in dew by oldest Bible fragments, if not
God’s angel in this painting (c. 1490s) the oldest: a victory song
from the school of Avignon, France. composed possibly as early
This is one of several signs from God as the 12th century bce.
that convinces Gideon He is with him.





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102 GIDEON AND THE JUDGES THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 103


The Israelites use loud trumpets to hands. In the event, most go down
shock the men in the Midianite camps on their knees; only a small number
in this engraving. Alarmed by the use their hands. These few will Israel falls
noise, and the Israelites’ faith in their constitute Gideon’s army—a mere Israel serves into sin and
God, the Midianites are forced to flee. the Lord.
300 men against a much larger idolatry.
Midianite force. The battle lines
bowlful of water out of the fleece; are now set. The Midianites are
the ground all around is dry. Still encamped in a valley near Moreh
not content, Gideon reverses the in central Israel. Gideon and his
test, and when, the following guerrillalike band are stationed
morning, dew is on the ground and on the hillside above. The Cycle
not on the fleece, he knows that On the eve of battle, God gives Israel is of Sin Israel is
God is truly with him. Gideon one last reassurance. delivered. in Judges enslaved.
During the night, he tells Gideon
Preparing for battle and his servant to creep down to
Gideon now heads an army of the Midianite camp and listen to
32,000 men. But this is too many what they hear. Gideon obeys.
for God, who is determined that He hears a Midianite recounting
Israel should know that He, God, is a dream in which a barley cake
the one who saves them, not their came rolling down the hill from God raises up Israel cries out
own military strength. God tells the Israelite camp and upset a a judge. to the Lord.
Gideon to ask anyone trembling Midianite tent. Another Midianite
As in other Old Testament stories, tribes of Israel. As the troops begin with fear to quit now. Many men replies that this must be a sign of
the divine promise is followed by a to rally, Gideon is nervous and do—22,000 of them—but the the sword of the Israelite leader
sign: the angel touches with the tip seeks reassurance from God. fighting force is still too large in Gideon and that God has put their
of his staff some meat and bread He takes a woollen fleece and God’s eyes. He tells Gideon to cut fate in Gideon’s hands. divides his men into three groups who intervenes on the part of the
that Gideon has prepared for Him places it on a threshing floor. The the forces further. Seeing the low morale of the of a hundred, issuing each of them supplicant. The benevolent Lord
and fire rises from the ground to next morning, if there is dew only Gideon takes his army to the Midianites, Gideon returns to his with a horn or trumpet, an empty continues to protect His chosen
consume the offerings. Terrified, on the fleece and not on the ground waterside. God has told him to note men with renewed boldness. “The jar, and a torch. They are to creep people despite their misdeeds.
Gideon realizes that he has been around it, he will know that God the men who go down on their Lord has given the Midianite camp down on the Midianites from three God’s deliverance temporarily
face to face with his true God. does indeed intend to save Israel knees to drink water, and those into your hands” (7:15) he cries, sides, and when Gideon gives restores peace and the grateful
by his hand. As dawn rises the who stay standing and lap the and the men prepare for battle. the word, they are to blow their Israelites ask Gideon to become
Tackling idolatry next morning, Gideon wrings a water up to their mouths with their His tactics are psychological. He trumpets and smash their jars to their king. Although he declines,
God’s first command to Gideon reveal the blazing torches. At the he still accepts a lion’s share of the
is to tear down an altar to the Role of the judges Deborah and her general Barak, same time, they will shout: “A sword gold taken from the Midianites, and
Canaanite god Baal that stands for example, led two Israelite for the Lord and for Gideon!” (7:20) uses some of this to make an ephod
on Gideon’s father’s land. He is The 12 judges were sent by tribes to a grand military victory The plan works to perfection. (thought to be a vestment for
to build a new altar to God in its God to deliver his chosen people in the late 13th century bce. The Midianites are caught by covering an idol). Judges records
place and then sacrifice one of from oppression. Unlike leaders The Book of Judges surprise and stampede in their how “Israel prostituted themselves
his father’s bulls as a burnt offering. such as Moses, the judges emphasizes a connection The anger of the Lord panic, turning their swords against by worshipping it there” (8:27), and
Gideon fulfills this command by were intended to provide only between military and spiritual burned against Israel … each other. The mighty Midianite idolatrous actions begin yet again.
night, provoking a furious but temporary leadership, and matters. Without a judge, the But when they cried out army flees in confusion and disarray. Despite this lapse, the peace
ultimately futile backlash from his scholars believe that some of Israelites often forgot God’s to [Him], He raised up lasts 40 years, until Gideon’s death.
townspeople the following day. these judges ruled in different commands and slipped into for them a deliverer … The cycle continues It is broken when his son
A more serious challenge comes regions simultaneously. sin. He consequently made who saved them. Behind this story lie two key Abimelech does what his father
when a huge army of Midianites Before Israel had kings, the their enemies strong to punish Judges 3:8–9 biblical themes: God’s justice and refused to do, by proclaiming
and their allies marches across the judges were sent by God to act them. When Israel was led God’s mercy. According to divine himself king. Other judge-deliverers
as both prophets and warriors—
by a judge, however, the
Jordan and into the Valley of combining the spirits of both people were brought back justice, disobedience brings are raised up, but when the people
Jezreel. The spirit of God comes Moses and Joshua. The judges into God’s service, and able punishment. However, divine turn against the king, Israel spirals
upon Gideon, who blows a horn to were skilled military leaders: to defeat their oppressors. mercy also ensures that the cry into violence, as Abimelech turns
summon an army from among the of human suffering reaches God, his army against them. ■





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 103


hands. In the event, most go down
on their knees; only a small number
use their hands. These few will Israel serves Israel falls
constitute Gideon’s army—a mere the Lord. into sin and
300 men against a much larger idolatry.
Midianite force. The battle lines
are now set. The Midianites are
encamped in a valley near Moreh
in central Israel. Gideon and his
guerrillalike band are stationed
on the hillside above. The Cycle
On the eve of battle, God gives Israel is of Sin Israel is
Gideon one last reassurance. delivered. in Judges enslaved.
During the night, he tells Gideon
and his servant to creep down to
the Midianite camp and listen to
what they hear. Gideon obeys.
He hears a Midianite recounting
a dream in which a barley cake
came rolling down the hill from God raises up Israel cries out
the Israelite camp and upset a a judge. to the Lord.
Midianite tent. Another Midianite
replies that this must be a sign of
the sword of the Israelite leader
Gideon and that God has put their
fate in Gideon’s hands. divides his men into three groups who intervenes on the part of the
Seeing the low morale of the of a hundred, issuing each of them supplicant. The benevolent Lord
Midianites, Gideon returns to his with a horn or trumpet, an empty continues to protect His chosen
men with renewed boldness. “The jar, and a torch. They are to creep people despite their misdeeds.
Lord has given the Midianite camp down on the Midianites from three God’s deliverance temporarily
into your hands” (7:15) he cries, sides, and when Gideon gives restores peace and the grateful
and the men prepare for battle. the word, they are to blow their Israelites ask Gideon to become
His tactics are psychological. He trumpets and smash their jars to their king. Although he declines,
reveal the blazing torches. At the he still accepts a lion’s share of the
same time, they will shout: “A sword gold taken from the Midianites, and
for the Lord and for Gideon!” (7:20) uses some of this to make an ephod
The plan works to perfection. (thought to be a vestment for
The Midianites are caught by covering an idol). Judges records
surprise and stampede in their how “Israel prostituted themselves
The anger of the Lord panic, turning their swords against by worshipping it there” (8:27), and
burned against Israel … each other. The mighty Midianite idolatrous actions begin yet again.
But when they cried out army flees in confusion and disarray. Despite this lapse, the peace
to [Him], He raised up lasts 40 years, until Gideon’s death.
for them a deliverer … The cycle continues It is broken when his son
who saved them. Behind this story lie two key Abimelech does what his father
Judges 3:8–9 biblical themes: God’s justice and refused to do, by proclaiming
God’s mercy. According to divine himself king. Other judge-deliverers
justice, disobedience brings are raised up, but when the people
punishment. However, divine turn against the king, Israel spirals
mercy also ensures that the cry into violence, as Abimelech turns
of human suffering reaches God, his army against them. ■





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104 IN BRIEF See also: The Prophet Samuel 110–15 ■ David and Goliath 116–17 ■ THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 105

THE SPIRIT PASSAGE Daniel in Babylon 164–65 provoke the Philistines in a series


Judges 13:1–16:31
Philistine oppression. Samson’s
of conflicts. This culminates in
mother is warned not to drink any
THEME
OF THE Human weakness wine or other fermented substance, Samson burning their crops and
murdering large numbers of
nor eat anything “unclean” during
SETTING
them on behalf of the oppressed
her pregnancy, as her son will be
c. 12th–11th century bce The
a “Nazirite” from the womb.
Israelites. Visiting the cities of
low country of Judah.
Philistia, he also spends time in the
Nazirites, whose name derived
LORD CAME KEY FIGURES from the Hebrew word nazir, house of a harlot, indicating his The Philistines
weakness for women.
meaning “dedicated to God,” were
Samson Selected by God
Yet Samson receives God’s
Israelites who took a voluntary
to free the Israelite people
support in spite of his misdeeds.
vow to follow Nazarite law for
from the oppression of the
God provides the strength Samson
a designated period of time in
UPON HIM Philistines. He is immensely service to the Lord. By contrast, requires to fulfill his divinely This ancient group fought
strong, yet deeply flawed.
Samson’s oath, made on his behalf
ordained mission of breaking
constantly with the Israelites
the Philistine yoke.
by his mother, lasts his whole life.
throughout the 12th and 11th
Samson’s wife Woman
Two key stipulations for Nazirites
centuries bce. One of the
whose Philistine blood
eastern Mediterranean in
hair, nor come into contact with
Matters come to a head when the
JUDGES 14:6, SAMSON displeases both Samson’s were that they must not cut their Imprisonment Sea Peoples who raided the
parents and God.
around 1170 bce, they were
dead bodies. However, during the
Philistines confront Samson about
Delilah Temptress with course of his life, Samson breaks all his rampages. When Samson based in the five city states of
whom Samson falls in love. of these rules and more. replies that he is only doing to the Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Gaza,
Working for the Philistines, Philistines what had been done to situated on the coast of
southwestern Canaan, and
she learns the secrets of Samson’s strength his own people, the Philistines take Ekron and Gath inland.
Samson’s strength. In Judges 14:6, Samson encounters Samson prisoner. However, God Their origins are unconfirmed.
a young lion as he is on the way once more comes to Samson’s aid
Philistines Oppressors of to visit the vineyards of Timnah— and he breaks free. Seizing the It was once thought the
Philistines originated from
the Israelites, and Samson’s now called Tell Batesh—in the jawbone of a freshly killed donkey ❯❯ Asia Minor, but recent
greatest foe. They capture, Sorek Valley. As the lion charges, evidence supports a theory
blind, and enslave him. Samson is endowed by the Holy that they came from the
Spirit and tears the lion apart with Aegean island of Crete and
his bare hands. settled in Canaan around the
Samson later returns to the same time as the Israelites in
scene of the carnage. As he passes the 12th century bce. In the
the lion’s carcass, he sees that bees lead-up to the founding of the
amson is the ultimate strong have made a nest in it and gathers Northern Kingdom of Israel in
man of the Bible, but in some of the fermented honey in around 930 bce, the Philistines
S some respects, he is also his hands. Samson then eats some constituted one of the
one of its weakest subjects. In of the honey as he goes along his country’s greatest threats.
There has been much
classic allegorical style, the story way. Here, Samson breaks two key debate about the meaning of
of Samson’s rise and fall exemplifies Nazirite laws in swift succession: the name “Philistine,” which
the magnitude of human weakness he touches a corpse and consumes translates from the Hebrew
and the consequent need to heed a fermented substance. Pelesheth, as “sojourners.”
the Lord’s commands. Endowed by God with The area they occupied was
In Judges 13:3, an angel of the superhuman strength, Samson Samson battles the lion with his known as Philistia, believed
Lord visits Samson’s mother-to-be becomes a leader and judge of the bare hands in this 18th-century icon to be the origin of Palestine,
painting from Kargopol, Russia. Many
and informs her that, although she Israelites; he rules the people for famous depictions of Samson show him the name given to the area
is barren, she will have a son, who 20 years. However, he continues bravely reaching into the lion’s mouth by the Greeks.
will deliver the Israelites from the to break his Nazirite vows and to tear it apart by the jaws.
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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 105

See also: The Prophet Samuel 110–15 ■ David and Goliath 116–17 ■
Daniel in Babylon 164–65


Philistine oppression. Samson’s provoke the Philistines in a series
mother is warned not to drink any of conflicts. This culminates in
wine or other fermented substance, Samson burning their crops and
nor eat anything “unclean” during murdering large numbers of
her pregnancy, as her son will be them on behalf of the oppressed
a “Nazirite” from the womb. Israelites. Visiting the cities of
Nazirites, whose name derived Philistia, he also spends time in the
from the Hebrew word nazir, house of a harlot, indicating his
meaning “dedicated to God,” were weakness for women.
Israelites who took a voluntary Yet Samson receives God’s
vow to follow Nazarite law for support in spite of his misdeeds. The Philistines
a designated period of time in God provides the strength Samson
service to the Lord. By contrast, requires to fulfill his divinely This ancient group fought
Samson’s oath, made on his behalf ordained mission of breaking constantly with the Israelites
by his mother, lasts his whole life. the Philistine yoke. throughout the 12th and 11th
Two key stipulations for Nazirites centuries bce. One of the
were that they must not cut their Imprisonment Sea Peoples who raided the
hair, nor come into contact with Matters come to a head when the eastern Mediterranean in
dead bodies. However, during the Philistines confront Samson about around 1170 bce, they were
course of his life, Samson breaks all his rampages. When Samson based in the five city states of
of these rules and more. replies that he is only doing to the Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Gaza,
Philistines what had been done to situated on the coast of
Samson’s strength his own people, the Philistines take southwestern Canaan, and
In Judges 14:6, Samson encounters Samson prisoner. However, God Ekron and Gath inland.
Their origins are unconfirmed.
a young lion as he is on the way once more comes to Samson’s aid It was once thought the
to visit the vineyards of Timnah— and he breaks free. Seizing the Philistines originated from
now called Tell Batesh—in the jawbone of a freshly killed donkey ❯❯ Asia Minor, but recent
Sorek Valley. As the lion charges, evidence supports a theory
Samson is endowed by the Holy that they came from the
Spirit and tears the lion apart with Aegean island of Crete and
his bare hands. settled in Canaan around the
Samson later returns to the same time as the Israelites in
scene of the carnage. As he passes the 12th century bce. In the
the lion’s carcass, he sees that bees lead-up to the founding of the
have made a nest in it and gathers Northern Kingdom of Israel in
some of the fermented honey in around 930 bce, the Philistines
his hands. Samson then eats some constituted one of the
of the honey as he goes along his country’s greatest threats.
There has been much
way. Here, Samson breaks two key debate about the meaning of
Nazirite laws in swift succession: the name “Philistine,” which
he touches a corpse and consumes translates from the Hebrew
a fermented substance. Pelesheth, as “sojourners.”
Endowed by God with The area they occupied was
superhuman strength, Samson Samson battles the lion with his known as Philistia, believed
becomes a leader and judge of the bare hands in this 18th-century icon to be the origin of Palestine,
painting from Kargopol, Russia. Many
Israelites; he rules the people for famous depictions of Samson show him the name given to the area
20 years. However, he continues bravely reaching into the lion’s mouth by the Greeks.
to break his Nazirite vows and to tear it apart by the jaws.





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106 SAMSON THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 107


Samson’s Revenge and Death is Samson tells Delilah … When Delilah believes him …
a wood engraving from Die Bible in
Bildern (The Bible in Pictures) by the He snaps the
German artist Julius Schnorr von He will become weak if he is tied with seven
Carolsfeld. Published in 30 parts fresh bowstrings that have not been dried. bowstrings as easily as
between 1852 and 1860, the work strings held over a flame.
contained 240 woodcut illustrations.


reveal the secret of his great He will become weak if he is tied securely He snaps the ropes as
strength, and how to take it from with new ropes that have never been used. if they are threads.
him. After several abortive
attempts—and some creative lying
from Samson—Delilah finally learns He will become weak if the braids of his hair are He easily pulls up the
that if Samson’s hair is shaved off, woven into fabric on the loom and pinned down. pin and the loom.
he will lose his strength. With the
Philistines’ help, Delilah cuts off
Samson’s hair while he is sleeping.
The Philistines then rip out his The truth: Samson will become Samson loses his strength and
eyes—a punishment to dissuade weak if his head is shaved. is captured by the Philistines.
prisoners from rebelling—and tie
him to a heavy grinding mill that
he must heave in circles in order
to make flour. hero. Others see him as a real out the company of women and selfish impulses, such as Samson’s
Meanwhile, Samson’s hair historical figure. The biblical tale breaks his Nazirite vows. This lust, and use them to accomplish
steadily begins to grow back, and of Samson sheds light on how ultimately brings about his His will. Although Samson’s life
Samson realizes that his strength is individuals can derive strength downfall; he fulfills the mission ends in tragedy, he does achieve
returning. This fact is lost on his from God’s spirit, and illustrates he has been given by God, but he the goal he has been set. The story
Philistine captors, who parade him the fundamental nature of human is continually diverted by selfish also illustrates the dangers of
in triumph at a temple festival in weakness. The contrast between impulses along the way. ceaseless retaliation. Samson and
honor of their god Dagon. Three divine strength and mortal frailty Two important lessons can the Philistines attack each other
thousand Philistines are gathered is shown by Samson’s story. be taken from this story. First, back and forth, until all parties
in the temple when Samson Through God he is physically it makes clear that God has the involved are destroyed by the
positions himself between two strong, but he yearns for and seeks power to take a human being’s endless cycle of vengeance. ■
great pillars supporting the roof. He
Samson lays waste to 1,000 prays to God for revenge on the Samson and Delilah in popular culture
Philistine men with it. He then Philistines for the loss of his two
mocks the Philistines as donkeys eyes, asking to die with his captors. The story of Samson—and lovers’ lives. Popular literature,
themselves. After this victory, God God grants Samson the strength he particularly of his relationship from The Canterbury Tales
rewards Samson with a drink from requests. With a mighty heave, with the woman from the Valley to Thackeray’s Vanity Fair,
The Spirit of the Lord came the spring of Lehi—a place named Samson pushes over the pillars, the of Sorek, Delilah—is one of the is replete with references to
most riveting tales in the Bible.
roof collapses, and everyone inside
for the great victory, as “Lehi”
the pair. One of the most
powerfully upon him. The The couple’s love affair and her lavish representations of the
ropes on his arms became means “jawbone.” the temple, including Samson, quest to uncover the secret of his lovers is Cecil B. DeMille’s
is consigned to a gory end.
like charred flax and Delilah’s treachery strength have inspired artists, 1949 Hollywood classic Samson
the bindings dropped. Samson’s fortunes change when Vessel of God writers, and screenwriters. Delilah and Delilah, starring Victor
Judges 15:14 he encounters a woman named Biblical scholars have long debated has been portrayed as a heartless Mature as Samson and Hedy
Delilah in the Valley of Sorek. She the meaning of the tale of Samson. seductress and a lover torn Lamarr as Delilah. DeMille
between loyalties.
created an action-packed drama,
is working for the Philistines, who Some see him as a legendary hero, Delilah, played by Hedy Lamarr, Numerous artists, including casting Lamarr as a minx and
are determined to find a way of in the mold of Hercules or the prepares to cut Samson’s hair in the Michelangelo and Rembrandt, Mature as a handsome but
1949 film, which cast Delilah as the
capturing Samson. Delilah seduces Mesopotamian mythological figure vengeful sister of Samson’s first wife. have painted scenes from the simple-minded hulk.
Samson in order to persuade him to Enkidu, or as an archetypal folk



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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 107


Samson tells Delilah … When Delilah believes him …

He snaps the
He will become weak if he is tied with seven bowstrings as easily as
fresh bowstrings that have not been dried.
strings held over a flame.



He will become weak if he is tied securely He snaps the ropes as
with new ropes that have never been used. if they are threads.




He will become weak if the braids of his hair are He easily pulls up the
woven into fabric on the loom and pinned down. pin and the loom.



The truth: Samson will become Samson loses his strength and
weak if his head is shaved. is captured by the Philistines.



hero. Others see him as a real out the company of women and selfish impulses, such as Samson’s
historical figure. The biblical tale breaks his Nazirite vows. This lust, and use them to accomplish
of Samson sheds light on how ultimately brings about his His will. Although Samson’s life
individuals can derive strength downfall; he fulfills the mission ends in tragedy, he does achieve
from God’s spirit, and illustrates he has been given by God, but he the goal he has been set. The story
the fundamental nature of human is continually diverted by selfish also illustrates the dangers of
weakness. The contrast between impulses along the way. ceaseless retaliation. Samson and
divine strength and mortal frailty Two important lessons can the Philistines attack each other
is shown by Samson’s story. be taken from this story. First, back and forth, until all parties
Through God he is physically it makes clear that God has the involved are destroyed by the
strong, but he yearns for and seeks power to take a human being’s endless cycle of vengeance. ■

Samson and Delilah in popular culture

The story of Samson—and lovers’ lives. Popular literature,
particularly of his relationship from The Canterbury Tales
with the woman from the Valley to Thackeray’s Vanity Fair,
of Sorek, Delilah—is one of the is replete with references to
most riveting tales in the Bible. the pair. One of the most
The couple’s love affair and her lavish representations of the
quest to uncover the secret of his lovers is Cecil B. DeMille’s
strength have inspired artists, 1949 Hollywood classic Samson
writers, and screenwriters. Delilah and Delilah, starring Victor
has been portrayed as a heartless Mature as Samson and Hedy
seductress and a lover torn Lamarr as Delilah. DeMille
Delilah, played by Hedy Lamarr, between loyalties. created an action-packed drama,
prepares to cut Samson’s hair in the Numerous artists, including casting Lamarr as a minx and
1949 film, which cast Delilah as the Michelangelo and Rembrandt, Mature as a handsome but
vengeful sister of Samson’s first wife. have painted scenes from the simple-minded hulk.






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108 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 109

See also: Joseph the Dreamer 58–61 ■ Queen Esther 132 ■ Shavuot
YOUR PEOPLE SHALL The story of Ruth the wider family), freeing slaves, Falling anytime between
The Golden Rule 210–11 ■ The Good Samaritan 216–17
May 14 and June 15, which is
BE MY PEOPLE AND Ruth, a widow, who is or even avenging murder. Boaz is also harvest time in the Holy
Land, “Shavuot” celebrates
impressed with Ruth’s hard work
the gift of Torah to the ancient
and loyalty to Naomi. Although his
YOUR GOD MY GOD also a Gentile, has no one foreman emphasizes that Ruth is a Israelites. It is associated
with the Book of Ruth, both
to care for her.
Moabite, Boaz encourages her to
because of its connection to
RUTH 1:16, RUTH AND NAOMI stay in his fields, where he can the harvest and because Ruth
ensure she is not harassed.
receives the gift of Torah upon
Ruth reports this to Naomi, who her conversion to Judaism.
recognizes Boaz’s status as a go’el. Shavuot, which translates
She converts to Judaism as “weeks,” a reference to the
and marries Boaz, a Naomi tells her to approach Boaz seven-week period between
“guardian-redeemer.” as he falls asleep, after the hard
work of winnowing the grain. Ruth Passover and Shavuot, is
follows Naomi’s advice, and when celebrated with a feast. The
n the Old Testament, the story husband, and their two sons have Boaz wakes, asks for the protection Apostles were observing
IN BRIEF of Ruth and Naomi appears fled to escape a famine in the of marriage: “Spread the corner of Shavuot when the Holy Spirit
I between the stories of the kingdom of Judah. The sons marry your garment over me” (Ruth 3:9). descended among them and
PASSAGE judges—military as well as judicial Moabite women called Ruth and God gives Ruth and Boaz Boaz agrees; but first, he must gave spiritual gifts (Luke
Ruth 1–4 a son, Obed, from whom 22:12–13). Customs associated
leaders—and the establishment of Orpah. However, within ten years King David will descend. speak to her nearest male relation. with the feast include the
THEME the monarchy through the prophet of living in Moab, Naomi’s husband reading of a celebratory poem,
God’s care for outsiders Samuel. Neatly divided into scenes and sons have all died, leaving her David’s line the consumption of dairy
that build to a climax, the book alone with her daughters-in-law. In the final scene, tension mounts products such as cheese
SETTING resembles a play, suggesting a There are no grandchildren. before all is resolved. Boaz invites blintzes, cheesecake, and
1250–1050 bce In the single author intent on showing God even provides Ruth’s nearest relative to buy land cheese ravioli, and the
Kingdoms of Moab and Judah. God’s (and the Israelites’) care for Women alone for and works belonging to Naomi, on the decoration of homes with
those on the fringes of society, even In the second scene, the famine condition that he marries Ruth. The greenery. People stay up all
KEY FIGURES when one is a Moabite, a foreigner. in Judah has ended and Naomi His purpose through man refuses, clearing the way for night reading the Torah and
Naomi Jewish woman whose The first scene is set in Moab, decides to move home. She Gentiles, such Boaz and Ruth to marry. The Lord there are synagogue readings
husband and sons have a country on the east side of the encourages her daughters-in-law as Ruth. then enables Ruth to conceive a of the Book of Ruth.
perished abroad. Dead Sea, to which Naomi, her to return to their homes and find son (4:13), who will join the line of
Ruth The foreign daughter-in- new husbands. Naomi cannot offer King David. The story showed the
law of Naomi who converts her daughters-in-law levirate people, and their God. Naomi and Israelites that even Gentiles can
to Judaism. marriage, by which a widow Ruth proceed to Bethlehem, where play a part in God’s purpose. ■
marries the oldest surviving brother they live as widows.
Boaz Relation of Naomi’s of her husband, as she has no sons. In the next scene, it is harvest
husband who becomes Ruth’s Naomi cares for Ruth and Orpah, time and Ruth takes the initiative
second husband. who have both shown kindness to “glean,” a form of charity that
to her: “May the Lord grant that permits the poor to pick up grain
each of you will find rest in the left behind by the harvesters. Ruth
home of another husband,” she chooses fields belonging to Boaz, Why have I found such
says (Ruth 1:8–9). a relative of her late husband, and a favor in your eyes that you
Orpah returns home, but Ruth potential go’el, “one with the right notice me—a foreigner?
stays with Naomi. In a celebrated to redeem.” In Hebrew society, a Ruth 2:10
speech marking her conversion to go’el is a near relative who can Members of the Samaritan
Ruth in Boaz’s Field, 1828, by Julius Judaism, Ruth says to Naomi, “Your protect a family in the absence of faith, an ancient offshoot of
Schnorr von Carolsfeld, depicts Ruth’s Judaism, celebrate Shavuot at their
first encounter with her redeemer, the people shall be my people and your a head of household. This could holy site of Mount Gerizim near the
landowner Boaz (left), a descendant of God my God” (1:16), confirming her mean buying their land to provide West Bank town of Nablus.
Abraham via Isaac. loyalty to her mother-in-law, her income (while still keeping it in





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 109

See also: Joseph the Dreamer 58–61 ■ Queen Esther 132 ■ Shavuot
The Golden Rule 210–11 ■ The Good Samaritan 216–17
Falling anytime between
The story of Ruth the wider family), freeing slaves, May 14 and June 15, which is
also harvest time in the Holy
or even avenging murder. Boaz is Land, “Shavuot” celebrates
impressed with Ruth’s hard work
Ruth, a widow, who is and loyalty to Naomi. Although his the gift of Torah to the ancient
also a Gentile, has no one foreman emphasizes that Ruth is a Israelites. It is associated
to care for her. Moabite, Boaz encourages her to with the Book of Ruth, both
because of its connection to
stay in his fields, where he can the harvest and because Ruth
ensure she is not harassed. receives the gift of Torah upon
Ruth reports this to Naomi, who her conversion to Judaism.
recognizes Boaz’s status as a go’el. Shavuot, which translates
She converts to Judaism as “weeks,” a reference to the
and marries Boaz, a Naomi tells her to approach Boaz seven-week period between
“guardian-redeemer.” as he falls asleep, after the hard
work of winnowing the grain. Ruth Passover and Shavuot, is
follows Naomi’s advice, and when celebrated with a feast. The
Boaz wakes, asks for the protection Apostles were observing
of marriage: “Spread the corner of Shavuot when the Holy Spirit
descended among them and
God gives Ruth and Boaz your garment over me” (Ruth 3:9). gave spiritual gifts (Luke
a son, Obed, from whom Boaz agrees; but first, he must 22:12–13). Customs associated
King David will descend. speak to her nearest male relation. with the feast include the
reading of a celebratory poem,
David’s line the consumption of dairy
In the final scene, tension mounts products such as cheese
before all is resolved. Boaz invites blintzes, cheesecake, and
God even provides Ruth’s nearest relative to buy land cheese ravioli, and the
for and works belonging to Naomi, on the decoration of homes with
His purpose through condition that he marries Ruth. The greenery. People stay up all
night reading the Torah and
Gentiles, such man refuses, clearing the way for there are synagogue readings
as Ruth. Boaz and Ruth to marry. The Lord of the Book of Ruth.
then enables Ruth to conceive a
son (4:13), who will join the line of
King David. The story showed the
people, and their God. Naomi and Israelites that even Gentiles can
Ruth proceed to Bethlehem, where play a part in God’s purpose. ■
they live as widows.
In the next scene, it is harvest
time and Ruth takes the initiative
to “glean,” a form of charity that
permits the poor to pick up grain
left behind by the harvesters. Ruth
chooses fields belonging to Boaz, Why have I found such
a relative of her late husband, and a favor in your eyes that you
potential go’el, “one with the right notice me—a foreigner?
to redeem.” In Hebrew society, a Ruth 2:10
go’el is a near relative who can Members of the Samaritan
protect a family in the absence of faith, an ancient offshoot of
a head of household. This could Judaism, celebrate Shavuot at their
holy site of Mount Gerizim near the
mean buying their land to provide West Bank town of Nablus.
income (while still keeping it in





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SPEAK, FOR YOUR




SERVANT
















IS LISTENING











1 SAMUEL 3:9, THE PROPHET SAMUEL





































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112 THE PROPHET SAMUEL THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 113

See also: David and Goliath 116–17 ■ The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ The Suffering Servant 154–55 ■
IN BRIEF The Prophet Jeremiah 156–59 ■ The Prophet Ezekiel 162–63 ■ The Prophet Micah 168–71
PASSAGE grief,” Eli blesses her: “Go in peace,
1 Samuel 1:1–25:1
and may the God of Israel grant History of the Books of Samuel
THEME you what you have asked of him” Telling the Israelites’ story from Saul in 1 Samuel 28. David’s
Obedience to God (1 Samuel 1). God does respond to the end of the era of the judges reign takes up all of 2 Samuel
Hannah’s prayer, and when she
SETTING gives birth to a son, she calls him to the final days of King David’s and continues in 1 Kings.
In the original Hebrew Bible,
c. 1150 bce The Tabernacle, Samuel —“heard of God.” reign, Samuel is split into two 1 and 2 Samuel were one book,
books. Although Samuel 1 and 2
which is at Shiloh at the When Samuel is around the age both bear his name, the prophet but this was split into two in
beginning of Samuel’s story, of 4, Hannah takes him back only appears as a key character Greek and Latin versions due
and then moved to Samuel’s to the priest Eli at Shiloh and in the first 16 chapters of to the book’s length. It is likely
hometown, Ramah. dedicates him to God’s service as 1 Samuel. After Samuel anoints that the account was compiled
she has promised. She leaves him Saul as king, Saul’s story takes from a variety of sources in the
KEY FIGURES to be educated and trained by Eli. up the rest of 1 Samuel. The only time of Israel’s later kings, after
Samuel Begins as Eli’s subsequent mentions of Samuel around 600 bce, to remind
prodigy in the Tabernacle, Samuel and Eli are before his death in 1 Samuel Israel’s rulers that they must
and quickly becomes God’s The early verses of Samuel’s story 25:1 and as a ghost summoned remain faithful to God if they
mouthpiece to the Israelites. describe how he grows both in by a medium on behalf of King want to rule well.
Eli Priest at the Tabernacle stature and favor with God and
recognized as a judge by the His people. Samuel’s exemplary have been Eli, Samuel runs to Eli’s of God’s presence and protection,
behavior is in marked contrast
bedside, ready to serve his master,
is captured by the Philistines.
Israelites. Eli’s two sons are to that of Eli’s own sons, who but Eli says he has not called out. On hearing of these calamities,
known troublemakers.
steal the offerings worshippers Back in bed, Samuel hears his name the aging Eli falls off his chair,
Saul Israel’s first king, who bring to God at Shiloh. called again, so once again runs to breaks his neck, and dies.
turns away from God’s ways. God plans to use Samuel to Eli. A second time, Eli sends him By this time, the Israelites
bring the old leadership of Eli and back to bed; he had not called. recognize Samuel not merely as
David Israel’s second king, his sons to an end and establish a After a third call summons Eli’s successor, but as someone
whose legacy as Israel’s new period of devotion to God. One Samuel to Eli’s bedside, Eli realizes even more important—a prophet,
greatest national leader night, while Samuel is asleep in the that the voice Samuel is hearing through whom God spoke to ❯❯
remains to this day. Tabernacle, he is woken by a voice must be God’s. He instructs Samuel
calling his name. Thinking it must to respond with the words “Speak,
Lord, for your servant is listening”
if the voice calls again. Samuel’s life
or nearly 300 years, the the messages and actions that Elkanah and his wives Hannah had begun by God responding to
tribes of Israel had been would lead to the greatest king (left) and Penninah (right) portrayed Hannah calling out to him for a
F loosely governed by a series Israel ever knew: King David. in a miniature from an illustrated child; now God is calling that child
of leaders, called “judges,” sent by manuscript produced in Utrecht to become a prophet. When God
in approximately 1467.
God. It had been a chaotic period, God answers Hannah The Lord was with calls again, Samuel answers exactly
as the Israelites found themselves Even before his birth, Samuel is Samuel as he grew up … as Eli has advised.
in repeated skirmishes with the promised into God’s service. His her to bear a child. One year, all Israel from Dan to
other clans vying for control in the father Elkanah has two wives, Hannah prays with great fervor Beersheba recognized that Eli’s rule ends
region. Time after time, God had Hannah and Peninnah. While and weeping, vowing that if God Samuel was attested as God tells Samuel that the time for
raised up a judge to restore order Peninnah has given birth to many hears her prayer, she will dedicate a prophet of the Lord. Eli and his sons to lead is coming
and bring military success. children, Hannah, his favorite the child to the service of God. 1 Samuel 3:19–20 to a close. Sure enough, during
Over the lifetime of Samuel, wife, has none, which causes her The priest, Eli, notices Hannah the next clash with the Philistines,
this tumultuous situation changed. great distress. Each year, when praying as he stands in the Eli’s sons Hophni and Phinehas are Eli questions Samuel after one of
the boy’s visions in this 19th-century
Samuel was no mere bystander to the family goes to Shiloh, where the doorway of the sanctuary. When killed, and the Ark of the Covenant, illustration. Most depictions of the two
this great transition; he was God’s Ark and the Tabernacle are kept, she tells him she has been praying which the Israelites had taken with highlight Samuel’s youth and vision in
prophet, who was entrusted with Hannah cries out to God to enable because of her “great anguish and them to the battlefield as a symbol contrast to the blind and elderly Eli.





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 113

See also: David and Goliath 116–17 ■ The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ The Suffering Servant 154–55 ■
The Prophet Jeremiah 156–59 ■ The Prophet Ezekiel 162–63 ■ The Prophet Micah 168–71


grief,” Eli blesses her: “Go in peace,
and may the God of Israel grant History of the Books of Samuel
you what you have asked of him”
(1 Samuel 1). God does respond to Telling the Israelites’ story from Saul in 1 Samuel 28. David’s
Hannah’s prayer, and when she the end of the era of the judges reign takes up all of 2 Samuel
gives birth to a son, she calls him to the final days of King David’s and continues in 1 Kings.
reign, Samuel is split into two
In the original Hebrew Bible,
Samuel —“heard of God.” books. Although Samuel 1 and 2 1 and 2 Samuel were one book,
When Samuel is around the age both bear his name, the prophet but this was split into two in
of 4, Hannah takes him back only appears as a key character Greek and Latin versions due
to the priest Eli at Shiloh and in the first 16 chapters of to the book’s length. It is likely
dedicates him to God’s service as 1 Samuel. After Samuel anoints that the account was compiled
she has promised. She leaves him Saul as king, Saul’s story takes from a variety of sources in the
to be educated and trained by Eli. up the rest of 1 Samuel. The only time of Israel’s later kings, after
subsequent mentions of Samuel around 600 bce, to remind
Samuel and Eli are before his death in 1 Samuel Israel’s rulers that they must
The early verses of Samuel’s story 25:1 and as a ghost summoned remain faithful to God if they
describe how he grows both in by a medium on behalf of King want to rule well.
stature and favor with God and
His people. Samuel’s exemplary have been Eli, Samuel runs to Eli’s of God’s presence and protection,
behavior is in marked contrast bedside, ready to serve his master, is captured by the Philistines.
to that of Eli’s own sons, who but Eli says he has not called out. On hearing of these calamities,
steal the offerings worshippers Back in bed, Samuel hears his name the aging Eli falls off his chair,
bring to God at Shiloh. called again, so once again runs to breaks his neck, and dies.
God plans to use Samuel to Eli. A second time, Eli sends him By this time, the Israelites
bring the old leadership of Eli and back to bed; he had not called. recognize Samuel not merely as
his sons to an end and establish a After a third call summons Eli’s successor, but as someone
new period of devotion to God. One Samuel to Eli’s bedside, Eli realizes even more important—a prophet,
night, while Samuel is asleep in the that the voice Samuel is hearing through whom God spoke to ❯❯
Tabernacle, he is woken by a voice must be God’s. He instructs Samuel
calling his name. Thinking it must to respond with the words “Speak,
Lord, for your servant is listening”
if the voice calls again. Samuel’s life
had begun by God responding to
Hannah calling out to him for a
child; now God is calling that child
to become a prophet. When God
The Lord was with calls again, Samuel answers exactly
Samuel as he grew up … as Eli has advised.
all Israel from Dan to
Beersheba recognized that Eli’s rule ends
Samuel was attested as God tells Samuel that the time for
a prophet of the Lord. Eli and his sons to lead is coming
1 Samuel 3:19–20 to a close. Sure enough, during
the next clash with the Philistines,
Eli’s sons Hophni and Phinehas are Eli questions Samuel after one of
the boy’s visions in this 19th-century
killed, and the Ark of the Covenant, illustration. Most depictions of the two
which the Israelites had taken with highlight Samuel’s youth and vision in
them to the battlefield as a symbol contrast to the blind and elderly Eli.





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114 THE PROPHET SAMUEL THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 115


the Israelites (1 Samuel 3:19–21). all the other nations, He is willing himself, Saul’s own son would
After the capture of the Ark of the to let them try. Samuel relays God’s not become ruler after his death.
Covenant , the people come to response to the people, solemnly Samuel’s last and greatest act The Israelites abandoned God to serve The Israelites
Samuel in great distress as they warning them that a king is no as prophet of God is to anoint a The Israelites the Baals and the Ashtoreths. They were asked for a king,
look for a solution. Samuel tells the substitute for following God, but new king, a “man after God’s own suffered punished by being sold into the hands although God was
in Egypt.
people to get rid of the idols they they are adamant. heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). This new of Sisera and the Philistines. their true king.
are worshipping and return to Samuel anoints Saul as Israel’s king is David, the youngest son
the true worship of God. The people first king, but Saul’s period of good of a sheep farmer.
listen to Samuel, and the next time favor is short-lived. No sooner has
the Israelites face the Philistines in Samuel handed over the leadership
battle, the Israelites are victorious. of Israel to King Saul, than Saul Samuel anoints Saul as the first
king of Israel by pouring oil over
Samuel is hailed as Israel’s new fails to keep God’s commands, Saul’s head in this undated engraving. The Israelites prayed to God for guidance and
“judge,” to whom the people look and Samuel comes to him with The ritual, described in 1 Samuel 10:1, forgiveness. Each time He answered their prayers.
for leadership. However, while a rebuke: just like Eli and Samuel marked Saul’s receipt of God’s spirit.
Samuel is recognized as a prophet
and a judge, his sons, Joel and
Abijah, just like the sons of Eli,
prove to be impious and unsuitable
to lead God’s chosen people.
God sent Moses God sent Gideon, Barak, Jephthah, God sent the
Samuel the kingmaker and Aaron to lead and Samuel to deliver the Israelites an
As Samuel grows older, the tribal them out of Egypt. Israelites from their enemies. anointed king.
leaders of Israel come to him and
ask him to appoint a king to lead
them, rather than passing the
mantle of leadership to his sons, Samuel is a central character possession of God, who had rescued
whom they see as weak. Samuel throughout this transitional time them from slavery in Egypt and Theocracy to
is displeased with the request. for the Israelites. He has the unique led them to the Promised Land. monarchy
However, when he speaks with position of being the last of the Samuel is God’s mouthpiece.
God, He tells Samuel to listen to judges of Israel and the first of However, from his birth and early At the beginning of Samuel’s
the people, saying “it is not you Israel’s prophets. As a prophet of years, he also demonstrates the story, Israel could be properly
they have rejected, but they have God, he is first and foremost a importance of listening for and called a “theocracy,” which
rejected me as their king” (8:7). spiritual leader, and throughout his recognizing God’s voice. In the means it was a family of
tribes ruled (cratos) by God
If the Israelites want to be just like ministry he repeatedly has to call Bible, God’s voice is often ignored, (theos). God had taken the
the Israelites back to the true or misheard, and the Israelites’ Israelites out of Egypt and
worship of God. inability to stay faithful to the given them laws to live by.
laws given to Moses on Mount Whenever they needed His
God’s mouthpiece Sinai is a constant theme. When intervention, God would raise
The role of the prophet will become this happens, they inevitably pass up an authoritative figure, or
more important in the Israelites’ through difficult times. When God’s “judge,” to unite them. In
“Does the Lord delight history, now that they have a royal words are recognized and obeyed, theory, this meant the people
in burnt offerings and line. As Samuel himself has done, God blesses the people. still viewed God as their king.
sacrifices as much as in the prophets will speak for God Bringing the words of God to By the time of Samuel,
obeying the Lord?” To obey directly to the people, and at times Israel will never be an easy task, many Israelites wanted a more
is better than sacrifice. even bring messages of judgment since God often asks His people to stable leadership, and they
1 Samuel 15:22 on the kings. Although the change the direction of their lives. asked for a king to lead them.
Israelites were now “like the other Samuel establishes the role of the However, they still faced
problems under a monarchy—
nations” with a royal line, prophets prophet as someone who listens some kings led them well (like
remind the people that they are for God and who speaks what David) while others led them
still different from these other they hear, regardless of the astray (like Ahab).
nations: they are the treasured consequences to themselves. ■





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 115





The Israelites abandoned God to serve The Israelites
The Israelites the Baals and the Ashtoreths. They were asked for a king,
suffered punished by being sold into the hands although God was
in Egypt.
of Sisera and the Philistines. their true king.







The Israelites prayed to God for guidance and
forgiveness. Each time He answered their prayers.








God sent Moses God sent Gideon, Barak, Jephthah, God sent the
and Aaron to lead and Samuel to deliver the Israelites an
them out of Egypt. Israelites from their enemies. anointed king.





Samuel is a central character possession of God, who had rescued
throughout this transitional time them from slavery in Egypt and Theocracy to
for the Israelites. He has the unique led them to the Promised Land. monarchy
position of being the last of the Samuel is God’s mouthpiece.
judges of Israel and the first of However, from his birth and early At the beginning of Samuel’s
Israel’s prophets. As a prophet of years, he also demonstrates the story, Israel could be properly
God, he is first and foremost a importance of listening for and called a “theocracy,” which
spiritual leader, and throughout his recognizing God’s voice. In the means it was a family of
tribes ruled (cratos) by God
ministry he repeatedly has to call Bible, God’s voice is often ignored, (theos). God had taken the
the Israelites back to the true or misheard, and the Israelites’ Israelites out of Egypt and
worship of God. inability to stay faithful to the given them laws to live by.
laws given to Moses on Mount Whenever they needed His
God’s mouthpiece Sinai is a constant theme. When intervention, God would raise
The role of the prophet will become this happens, they inevitably pass up an authoritative figure, or
more important in the Israelites’ through difficult times. When God’s “judge,” to unite them. In
history, now that they have a royal words are recognized and obeyed, theory, this meant the people
line. As Samuel himself has done, God blesses the people. still viewed God as their king.
the prophets will speak for God Bringing the words of God to By the time of Samuel,
directly to the people, and at times Israel will never be an easy task, many Israelites wanted a more
even bring messages of judgment since God often asks His people to stable leadership, and they
on the kings. Although the change the direction of their lives. asked for a king to lead them.
Israelites were now “like the other Samuel establishes the role of the However, they still faced
problems under a monarchy—
nations” with a royal line, prophets prophet as someone who listens some kings led them well (like
remind the people that they are for God and who speaks what David) while others led them
still different from these other they hear, regardless of the astray (like Ahab).
nations: they are the treasured consequences to themselves. ■





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116 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 117

See also: Samson 104–07 ■ David and Bathsheba 118–19 ■ The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ The Psalms 138–43
THERE WAS NO David’s potential has already been Goliath’s size Sizing up David and Goliath



varies according
SWORD IN THE recognized by God. As related in to the source, but 3.0 10
1 Samuel 16, he has been secretly
2.7
9
it is likely that it
anointed by Samuel to be Israel’s
was within
2.4
8
next king, although David is
human range
2.1
7
HAND OF DAVID unaware of this at the time. and the result 1.8 6 5 4
of a hereditary
The arrival of David
1.5
disorder of the
pituitary gland.
When he arrives at the battlefield
1.2
1 SAMUEL 17:50, DAVID AND GOLIATH and sees Goliath’s challenge going 0.9 3 2
unanswered, David is determined
0.6
to fight him. Although Saul has 0.3 1
offered rich rewards for anyone
brave enough to take on Goliath, at M Ft
he heroic victory of a one of them to come out and fight first he tries to deter David, telling David The Goliath The height Goliath The
average height
height of Goliath
of Goliath according
IN BRIEF simple farm boy over a him. Although sources differ on his the shepherd that Goliath “has of an Israelite, to the Dead Sea according to
T giant warrior is one of the exact height, Goliath is described been a warrior from his youth” according to Scrolls, Septuagint, Masoretic text.
PASSAGE most inspiring tales in the Bible. as a giant, and any man foolish (1 Samuel 17:33). David responds archaeology and Josephus.
1 Samuel 17
As the king of the Israelites, Saul, enough to fight him looks certain by telling Saul how, when tending
THEME wavers uncertainly on the edge of to be defeated. his father’s sheep, he fought off and Goliath and the Philistines have
God’s anointing is greater battle, David’s firm actions and his David is tending sheep when killed a lion and a bear. David has foolishly defied. “This day,” he says, Clash of champions
than earthly powers enduring faith in God grant the his father tells him to take some faith that, with God on his side, “the Lord will deliver you into my
Israelites a decisive victory. food to his older brothers, who are taking on Goliath will not be a hands and I’ll strike you down and David and Goliath’s duel
SETTING For 40 days, the Israelites have serving in Saul’s army. Although problem. Armed only with his staff, cut off your head” (17:46). As the was not the only clash of
Around 1020 bce been locked in a stalemate with the he is the youngest of his brothers, a slingshot, and five pebbles from heavily armored Goliath advances, champions in the ancient
Valley of Elah, Judah. Philistines, about 15 miles (24 km) the bed of a stream, he goes off to David seizes his chance. Reaching world, although it is the only
one recorded in the Bible. In
southwest of Jerusalem. Each fight the Philistines’ champion. into his bag, he takes out one of the
KEY FIGURES morning on the battlefield, a warrior David raises his sword to cut off The duel starts with Goliath pebbles, slips it into his slingshot, classical Greece, champions
David The youngest son of named Goliath emerges from the the head of Goliath in this 17th-century hurling curses at David, while the and shoots it, striking Goliath on from Sparta and Argos fought
Jesse of Bethlehem. He starts Philistine ranks and bellows out a painting by Guillaime Courtois. David’s latter tells the giant he is fighting the forehead. The giant falls to the the so-called Battle of the
Champions in 546 bce. It
off as a shepherd and rises to challenge to the Israelites, daring against-the-odds victory has inspired him in the name of God—whom ground, and David uses Goliath’s ended with both sides
artists throughout history.
become a mighty warrior and own sword to chop off the giant’s claiming victory. Much later,
second king of the Israelites head. The Philistines flee—pursued in around 133 bce, Scipio
after the death of Saul. by the Israelites, who chase them to Aemilianus accepted a
Goliath A giant from Gath Gath and Ekron before returning challenge from an Iberian
warrior parading in front
who is the champion of to plunder the Philistines’ camp. of the Roman ranks, daring
the Philistines. You come against me Saul’s failings someone to fight him. Sources
Saul Israel’s first king, who with sword and spear David’s faith in God allows him to say the Iberian was a giant,
while Scipio was a much
proves to be a weak ruler. and javelin, but I come defeat Goliath, and this story can smaller man. Nevertheless,
against you in the name also be seen as evidence of Saul’s
Samuel The last of the judges of the Lord Almighty. moral deficiencies as king, as he like David, he prevailed.
In medieval times, the
and an important prophet who 1 Samuel 17:45 does not trust in God enough to notion of champions became
anoints Saul and David as have faith in victory. Although Saul embedded in law. Trial by
Israel’s first and second kings. rewards David by promoting him combat was used to determine
to a high rank in his army, he soon God’s favor and thus a
becomes jealous and begins to person’s guilt or innocence.
plot David’s downfall. ■


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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 117

See also: Samson 104–07 ■ David and Bathsheba 118–19 ■ The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ The Psalms 138–43



David’s potential has already been Goliath’s size Sizing up David and Goliath
recognized by God. As related in varies according 3.0 10
1 Samuel 16, he has been secretly to the source, but 2.7 9
anointed by Samuel to be Israel’s it is likely that it
was within
next king, although David is human range 2.4 8
unaware of this at the time. and the result 2.1 7
of a hereditary 1.8 6
The arrival of David disorder of the 1.5 5
When he arrives at the battlefield pituitary gland. 1.2 4
and sees Goliath’s challenge going 0.9 3
unanswered, David is determined 0.6 2
to fight him. Although Saul has 0.3 1
offered rich rewards for anyone
brave enough to take on Goliath, at M Ft
first he tries to deter David, telling David The Goliath The height Goliath The
height of Goliath
average height
of Goliath according
the shepherd that Goliath “has of an Israelite, to the Dead Sea according to
been a warrior from his youth” according to Scrolls, Septuagint, Masoretic text.
(1 Samuel 17:33). David responds archaeology and Josephus.
by telling Saul how, when tending
his father’s sheep, he fought off and Goliath and the Philistines have
killed a lion and a bear. David has foolishly defied. “This day,” he says, Clash of champions
faith that, with God on his side, “the Lord will deliver you into my
taking on Goliath will not be a hands and I’ll strike you down and David and Goliath’s duel
problem. Armed only with his staff, cut off your head” (17:46). As the was not the only clash of
a slingshot, and five pebbles from heavily armored Goliath advances, champions in the ancient
the bed of a stream, he goes off to David seizes his chance. Reaching world, although it is the only
one recorded in the Bible. In
fight the Philistines’ champion. into his bag, he takes out one of the classical Greece, champions
The duel starts with Goliath pebbles, slips it into his slingshot, from Sparta and Argos fought
hurling curses at David, while the and shoots it, striking Goliath on the so-called Battle of the
latter tells the giant he is fighting the forehead. The giant falls to the Champions in 546 bce. It
him in the name of God—whom ground, and David uses Goliath’s ended with both sides
own sword to chop off the giant’s claiming victory. Much later,
head. The Philistines flee—pursued in around 133 bce, Scipio
by the Israelites, who chase them to Aemilianus accepted a
Gath and Ekron before returning challenge from an Iberian
to plunder the Philistines’ camp. warrior parading in front
of the Roman ranks, daring
You come against me Saul’s failings someone to fight him. Sources
with sword and spear David’s faith in God allows him to say the Iberian was a giant,
and javelin, but I come defeat Goliath, and this story can while Scipio was a much
against you in the name also be seen as evidence of Saul’s smaller man. Nevertheless,
like David, he prevailed.
of the Lord Almighty. moral deficiencies as king, as he In medieval times, the
1 Samuel 17:45 does not trust in God enough to notion of champions became
have faith in victory. Although Saul embedded in law. Trial by
rewards David by promoting him combat was used to determine
to a high rank in his army, he soon God’s favor and thus a
becomes jealous and begins to person’s guilt or innocence.
plot David’s downfall. ■





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118 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 119

See also: Esau and Jacob 54–55 ■ The Ten Plagues 70–71 ■ The Ten Commandments 78–83 ■ Samson 104–07 ■
THE MAN Bathsheba inhabits a 16th-century
The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31 ■ The Disobedient Prophet 166–67


world in this painting by Hans Sebald
WHO DID THIS (1500–1550). She may have been taking
a mikveh, a ritual bath performed after
menstruation, when David spies her.
MUST DIE takes and kills a poor man’s only

lamb. When David condemns the
injustice, saying “the man who did
2 SAMUEL 12:5, DAVID AND BATHSHEBA this must die!” (2 Samuel 12:5),
Nathan replies tersely “You are the
man!” (12:7) and denounces the
enormity of David’s sins. David
repents, but God still punishes
nitially revered as a wise king, of his servants to discover her him. When Bathsheba bears their
IN BRIEF David is in the 11th year of his identity. The servant tells him her son, the child dies within days
I reign when he breaks God’s name is Bathsheba and that she of the birth.
PASSAGE laws. The events that then unfold is the wife of Uriah the Hittite, a As well as showing how even
2 Samuel 11–12
warn of the dangers of monarchy warrior serving in David’s current the most righteous can fall into sin,
THEME if the king does not obey God—a campaign against the Ammonites. this story is a cautionary tale about
Sins of the righteous theme explored elsewhere in the the dangers of power. Through
Book of Samuel. Succumbs to sin committing the heinous sins of both
SETTING David’s transgression occurs Despite his strength in battle, As both Bathsheba’s husband forget his scruples. However, once adultery and murder, King David
Around 1000 bce Jerusalem. during a time of war. Having David gives in to desire. He sends and many other members of her again, Uriah does not return home. acts as though he considers himself
KEY FIGURES secured the kingdom, he stays for Bathsheba and sleeps with her. family hold important positions As David gets more desperate, above the laws of God. Only his true
This seemingly uncharacteristic
behind in Jerusalem rather than
in court, David wishes to avoid
repentance for the harm he has
one sin leads to another, and his
David Israel’s well-respected leading his army into another action by David shows us that even a scandal at all costs. thoughts turn to murder. He feels done allows him to recover God’s
second king, who ascends to battle. While resting in his palace, great men can struggle against desire for Bathsheba and wants to favor and even then, he and his
the throne after Saul’s death. the king spots a beautiful woman sin. However, David’s actions soon David plots marry her himself. family will continue to suffer the
He sins against God by bathing on the roof of a nearby catch up with him when Bathsheba The king’s first move is to recall When Uriah returns to the consequences of his actions. ■
sleeping with Bathsheba. house. He immediately sends one sends word that she is pregnant. Uriah from the battlefront on the battlefield, the king gives him a
Bathsheba The wife of Uriah pretext of wanting to hear a first- letter for his commander Joab in
the Hittite, who commits Adultery and polygamy adulteress are to be put to hand account of the war’s progress. which he tells Joab to order Uriah
adultery with David and death.” The method of execution Once Uriah is back in Jerusalem, it “out in front where the fighting is
later marries him. One of the most frequently and was by stoning. would be only natural for him to fiercest. Then withdraw from him
severely condemned sins in the While God hates adultery, sleep with his wife, who could then so he will be struck down and die”
Joab The commander of Bible is adultery. It is mentioned polygamy seems to be both claim her unborn child as his. (2 Samuel 11:14). Joab carries out Why did you despise the
David’s army. 52 times, including in the Ten accepted and commonplace. However, Uriah decides to sleep David’s orders and sends word word of the Lord by doing
Commandments, where it is According to Genesis 4, Cain’s on a mat in the palace rather than that Uriah has been killed. Once what is evil in His eyes?
Nathan A prophet and one specifically prohibited; all four descendant, Lamech, had two go home. Demonstrating a stricter Bathsheba’s period of mourning is You struck down Uriah the
of David’s closest advisers. New Testament Gospels; and wives, while Abraham, Jacob, ethical code than King David, he over, David promptly marries her. Hittite with the sword and
in ten other books of the Bible. and possibly Moses are also protests that it would be unfair took his wife to be your own.
Uriah the Hittite A high- Only the sins of idolatry, self- polygamous. Scholars believe
ranking officer in David’s army righteousness, and murder are David may have had as many for him to feast and make love to God’s anger 2 Samuel 12:9
who is married to Bathsheba. mentioned more often. Leviticus as 12 wives; Solomon, who his wife while his fellow soldiers The Lord is displeased by David’s
20:10 makes it clear how sternly “loved many foreign women” are away fighting. actions and sends Nathan the
David invites Uriah to dine
prophet to confront the king.
God judged the crime, saying (1 Kings 11:1), had 700 wives
that “both the adulterer and and 300 concubines. with him and plies him with Nathan tells David a parable about
alcohol, hoping this will make him a rich man who, despite his wealth,




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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 119

See also: Esau and Jacob 54–55 ■ The Ten Plagues 70–71 ■ The Ten Commandments 78–83 ■ Samson 104–07 ■
The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31 ■ The Disobedient Prophet 166–67


Bathsheba inhabits a 16th-century
world in this painting by Hans Sebald
(1500–1550). She may have been taking
a mikveh, a ritual bath performed after
menstruation, when David spies her.


takes and kills a poor man’s only
lamb. When David condemns the
injustice, saying “the man who did
this must die!” (2 Samuel 12:5),
Nathan replies tersely “You are the
man!” (12:7) and denounces the
enormity of David’s sins. David
repents, but God still punishes
him. When Bathsheba bears their
son, the child dies within days
of the birth.
As well as showing how even
the most righteous can fall into sin,
this story is a cautionary tale about
the dangers of power. Through
committing the heinous sins of both
As both Bathsheba’s husband forget his scruples. However, once adultery and murder, King David
and many other members of her again, Uriah does not return home. acts as though he considers himself
family hold important positions As David gets more desperate, above the laws of God. Only his true
in court, David wishes to avoid one sin leads to another, and his repentance for the harm he has
a scandal at all costs. thoughts turn to murder. He feels done allows him to recover God’s
desire for Bathsheba and wants to favor and even then, he and his
David plots marry her himself. family will continue to suffer the
The king’s first move is to recall When Uriah returns to the consequences of his actions. ■
Uriah from the battlefront on the battlefield, the king gives him a
pretext of wanting to hear a first- letter for his commander Joab in
hand account of the war’s progress. which he tells Joab to order Uriah
Once Uriah is back in Jerusalem, it “out in front where the fighting is
would be only natural for him to fiercest. Then withdraw from him
sleep with his wife, who could then so he will be struck down and die”
claim her unborn child as his. (2 Samuel 11:14). Joab carries out Why did you despise the
However, Uriah decides to sleep David’s orders and sends word word of the Lord by doing
on a mat in the palace rather than that Uriah has been killed. Once what is evil in His eyes?
go home. Demonstrating a stricter Bathsheba’s period of mourning is You struck down Uriah the
ethical code than King David, he over, David promptly marries her. Hittite with the sword and
protests that it would be unfair took his wife to be your own.
for him to feast and make love to God’s anger 2 Samuel 12:9
his wife while his fellow soldiers The Lord is displeased by David’s
are away fighting. actions and sends Nathan the
David invites Uriah to dine prophet to confront the king.
with him and plies him with Nathan tells David a parable about
alcohol, hoping this will make him a rich man who, despite his wealth,





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120 IN BRIEF See also: The Ark and the Tabernacle 86–87 ■ David and Bathsheba 118–19 ■ The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31 ■ 121
THE HISTORICAL BOOKS

CUT THE LIVING PASSAGE Rebuilding Jerusalem 133

1 Kings 3
David’s dream of building God’s
CHILD IN TWO, THEME into one of the wealthiest and most
First Temple and he turns Israel
God’s wisdom through
powerful nations in the world by
Solomon
expanding trade and executing
SETTING
AND GIVE HALF c.962–922 bce a program of construction.
Jerusalem, the capital
From father to son
city of Israel.
In around 970 bce, King David
TO ONE AND HALF KEY FIGURES passes the throne of a unified Israel
to Solomon, his surviving son by
King Solomon The son
Bathsheba. David exhorts his son
of David and Bathsheba,
to love and obey God so that the
Solomon rules Israel from
TO THE OTHER around 962 to 922 bce. He kingdom will prosper and their
descendants will always be kings
is wise, just, and devout.
(1 Kings 2:2–4). Solomon follows
his father’s advice.
A little later (3:5), God appears
Solomon and the second
1 KINGS 3:25, THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON King David The father of to Solomon in a dream and says than the word of one woman The Judgment of Solomon
king of Israel.
He will give the young king against the other. Both women are (1649) by Nicolas Poussin depicts the
Two unknown women anything he desires. Modestly, vehement in their protestations of moment Solomon delivers his ruling.
Described as prostitutes, Solomon asks only for a discerning affection for the child. The balance of colour and form in the
composition mirrors the justice of
the women ask Solomon to heart and wisdom to distinguish After listening to both women, God and Solomon.
decide which of them is the between right and wrong. Pleased Solomon devises a judgment that
rightful mother of a baby. by this response, God grants the is simple but effective. He calls for
wish, and also bestows long life, a sword and gives orders to divide the baby can live, she will willingly
Queen of Sheba Her visit wealth, and power “so that in your the child so that each woman can give him up to her rival, who does
to Solomon is described in lifetime you will have no equal have half. One woman readily not realize that she has exposed the
one brief biblical passage among kings” (3:13). agrees while the other, horrified, emptiness of her claim by agreeing
(1 Kings 10:1–13) but has pleads for the child’s life. If only to the grisly solution. Solomon
intrigued readers of the The wisdom of Solomon orders that the baby be handed to
Bible for centuries. As God has promised, Solomon the woman who has given him up,
is all-powerful and famously wise. saying, “Do not kill him; she is his
Zadok The first high priest He puts his wisdom to good use mother” (1 Kings 3:27).
to serve in the Temple. when two women claim to be
the mother of the same baby. The Building God’s Temple
women, both prostitutes, come God gave Solomon Solomon achieves much during his
before Solomon to plead their case. wisdom and very great reign—he fortifies the kingdom,
Their story is that they live in the insight, and a breadth builds a palace, and constructs a
olomon is one of the Bible’s same house and recently gave of understanding as fleet of ships to boost maritime
most charismatic figures. birth within days of each other. measureless as the sand trade. His crowning achievement
S His 40-year reign is widely One woman claims the other on the seashore. is the construction of God’s First
regarded as a golden age, but has accidentally smothered her 1 Kings 4:29 Temple, which takes seven years to
it is during the first 20 years, child by lying on it and then complete. This Temple will be the
when he builds the First Temple, swapped the dead child for her dwelling of God and a safe home
that he proves himself as a glorious living infant. Legally, the case is for the Ark of the Covenant. It
monarch and faithful servant highly contentious. There are no supersedes the Tabernacle, built
of God. He fulfills his father King witnesses nor any evidence, other during the time of Moses and ❯❯





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 121

See also: The Ark and the Tabernacle 86–87 ■ David and Bathsheba 118–19 ■ The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31 ■
Rebuilding Jerusalem 133


David’s dream of building God’s
First Temple and he turns Israel
into one of the wealthiest and most
powerful nations in the world by
expanding trade and executing
a program of construction.

From father to son
In around 970 bce, King David
passes the throne of a unified Israel
to Solomon, his surviving son by
Bathsheba. David exhorts his son
to love and obey God so that the
kingdom will prosper and their
descendants will always be kings
(1 Kings 2:2–4). Solomon follows
his father’s advice.
A little later (3:5), God appears
to Solomon in a dream and says than the word of one woman The Judgment of Solomon
He will give the young king against the other. Both women are (1649) by Nicolas Poussin depicts the
anything he desires. Modestly, vehement in their protestations of moment Solomon delivers his ruling.
Solomon asks only for a discerning affection for the child. The balance of colour and form in the
composition mirrors the justice of
heart and wisdom to distinguish After listening to both women, God and Solomon.
between right and wrong. Pleased Solomon devises a judgment that
by this response, God grants the is simple but effective. He calls for
wish, and also bestows long life, a sword and gives orders to divide the baby can live, she will willingly
wealth, and power “so that in your the child so that each woman can give him up to her rival, who does
lifetime you will have no equal have half. One woman readily not realize that she has exposed the
among kings” (3:13). agrees while the other, horrified, emptiness of her claim by agreeing
pleads for the child’s life. If only to the grisly solution. Solomon
The wisdom of Solomon orders that the baby be handed to
As God has promised, Solomon the woman who has given him up,
is all-powerful and famously wise. saying, “Do not kill him; she is his
He puts his wisdom to good use mother” (1 Kings 3:27).
when two women claim to be
the mother of the same baby. The Building God’s Temple
women, both prostitutes, come God gave Solomon Solomon achieves much during his
before Solomon to plead their case. wisdom and very great reign—he fortifies the kingdom,
Their story is that they live in the insight, and a breadth builds a palace, and constructs a
same house and recently gave of understanding as fleet of ships to boost maritime
birth within days of each other. measureless as the sand trade. His crowning achievement
One woman claims the other on the seashore. is the construction of God’s First
has accidentally smothered her 1 Kings 4:29 Temple, which takes seven years to
child by lying on it and then complete. This Temple will be the
swapped the dead child for her dwelling of God and a safe home
living infant. Legally, the case is for the Ark of the Covenant. It
highly contentious. There are no supersedes the Tabernacle, built
witnesses nor any evidence, other during the time of Moses and ❯❯





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122 THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 123


Solomon builds the Temple, which, large sacrificial altar, and the inner N Solomon’s
with pillars and courtyards, reflects sanctuary (1 Kings 6:5), comprising WHEELED BRONZE BASINS GREAT COURT Temple was
the style familiar to the Phoenician the Holy Place (hekal), in which similar to the
craftsmen who worked on it, next there are ten gold menorah, a table Tabernacle but
to the royal palace to allow access of showbread (for offerings), and a INNER COURT incorporated
Phoenician
During Solomon’s between the two most important golden incense altar (1 Chronicles elements such
lifetime Judah and Israel … buildings in Jerusalem. This 28:18). Around the inner sanctuary as the two
lived in safety, everyone proximity symbolizes the king’s are chambers for the priests. Jachin columns “Jachin”
under their own vine status as God’s appointed ruler. Behind the incense altar lies CHAMBERS ARK Veil Altar of Folding Doors BRONZE and “Boaz,”
ALTAR
incense
and … own fig tree. the Holy of Holies, the resting place Boaz reflecting the
input of architects
1 Kings 4:25 Specifications of the Ark of the Covenant and the and craftsmen
Although ornate and beautiful, tablets of the Ten Commandments. loaned to Solomon
the Temple itself is not particularly These are guarded by two huge Bronze by King Hiram
large. The specifications given in statues of olive-wood cherubim sea of Tyre.
the Bible are expressed in cubits, overlaid with gold. One of the most
an ancient unit of length, estimated striking features is the “bronze
at about 18 inches (45 cm). The sea,” a huge bronze basin that HOLY OF HOLIES HOLY PLACE COURT
used by the Israelites in the Temple building is described as provides water for the priests
wilderness. Many detailed plans being 60 cubits long, 20 cubits to purify themselves, with ten
and preparations have already been wide, and 30 high, or three stories wheeled basins for carrying water. King of Tyre (Phoenicia), Solomon’s in the fourth year of Solomon’s
drawn up by King David, who had high, with a towering porch No expense is spared for either ally and neighbor, supplies cedar reign and that it took seven years, Raising funds for
wanted to undertake the project 120 cubits high. Modern estimates the construction or the furnishing for the paneling as well as labor. which puts completion at around the First Temple
himself. God had told David (through give the dimensions as 120–150 of the Temple. Solomon conscripts According to 1 Kings 6:7, the stone 964 bce. Rabbinic sources say
the prophet Nathan) that he could feet (35–40m) long by 45–60 feet 30,000 Israelites to build it, with is finished at the quarry before the Temple stood for 410 years, According to 1 Chronicles
not build the Temple because he (15–20m) wide. At the entrance a further 80,000 to quarry stone, being transported to the Temple, so yet records show that it was 22:14, King David sets aside
was a warrior and had shed blood. are two bronze pillars known as 70,000 to carry stone, and 3,300 that “no hammer, chisel or any other destroyed by the Babylonians in funds and materials for the
The responsibility and plans Jachin and Boaz, symbolizing managers to oversee the work iron tool was heard at the Temple around 587 bce, 30 years earlier Temple before he dies. They
for building the Temple therefore God’s greatness. (1 Kings 5:13 and 2 Chronicles 2:2). site while it was being built.” than those dates indicate. The included “a hundred thousand
talents of gold, a million talents
pass to Solomon. David tells his The complex consists of three Large, expensive stones are cut most likely site is Temple Mount, of silver, quantities of bronze
son that these are divinely inspired, main areas: the great court (1 Kings for the foundations, and the finest The priests move in now occupied by the Dome of the and iron too great to be
“All this … I have in writing as a 7:9), where people assemble to materials, including gold, silver, Once the Temple has been Rock, an Islamic shrine, where weighed, and wood and stone.”
result of the Lord’s hand on me” worship, the inner court or court of bronze, cedarwood, and precious completed, the priests move God’s the Prophet Muhammad is said In modern terms, this equates
(1 Chronicles 28:19). the priests (2 Chronicles 4:9), with a stones, are used throughout. The ceremonial equipment from the to have ascended to heaven. ■ to 3,750 tons of gold and
tabernacle to the Temple and a 37,000 tons of silver.
The Queen of Sheba A visit to Jerusalem by the Queen Solomon gives her “all she feast is held for 14 days. From then King David also appeals
of Sheba is mentioned in the desired and asked for” (1 Kings on, a daily sacrifice of lamb is made for donations. Gold, silver, iron,
Hebrew Bible, the Qur’an, and 10:13). Open to interpretation, in the morning, with a second bronze, and precious stones
the Ethiopian holy book, the this phrase could simply mean lamb and cereal sacrificed by the are given by families, leaders
Kebra Nagast. The Bible passage that she is satisfied with high priest Zadok on the Sabbath. of the 12 tribes, commanders,
is brief but ambiguous. It states Solomon’s answers or that she is Singing and prayers are part of When the Queen of and those in charge of the
that the unnamed queen hears of carrying his child. Ethiopians worship. Only the high priest is Sheba heard about the works. Huge quantities of
Solomon’s fame and wishes to test believe that the Sheban queen permitted to enter the Holy of fame of Solomon and his wood, especially cedar, are
his wisdom. Traveling from the bore Solomon a son, Menelik I, Holies, and then only on the relationship to the Lord, imported from Tyre. David
land of Sheba (believed to be from whom all Ethiopian kings Day of Atonement (see pp. 86–87). she came to test Solomon promises King Hiram of
modern-day Yemen or possibly are descended. They also Jerusalem is now established with hard questions. Tyre to pay his craftsmen
Ethiopia), she arrives with gifts of believe that when Menelik as a holy city. Zadok and his 1 Kings 10:1 whatever wages Hiram
gold, precious stones, spices, and later traveled to Jerusalem to descendants control the Temple until requires; by the end of the
incense. Solomon answers all her visit his father, he smuggled project Solomon is greatly
questions and she is impressed, the Ark of the Covenant back the Babylonian Exile in 597 bce. in debt and is forced to give
praising God for placing Solomon to Axum in northern Ethiopia, It is difficult to pinpoint when 20 towns in Galilee to Hiram
on the throne. She leaves after where it still resides. Solomon’s Temple was completed. as payment (1 Kings 9:11).
The Bible says construction started





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 123


N Solomon’s
WHEELED BRONZE BASINS GREAT COURT Temple was
similar to the
Tabernacle but
INNER COURT incorporated
Phoenician
elements such
as the two
CHAMBERS ARK Veil Altar of Folding Doors Jachin BRONZE and “Boaz,”
columns “Jachin”
ALTAR
incense
reflecting the
Boaz
input of architects
and craftsmen
loaned to Solomon
Bronze by King Hiram
sea
of Tyre.
HOLY OF HOLIES HOLY PLACE COURT



King of Tyre (Phoenicia), Solomon’s in the fourth year of Solomon’s
ally and neighbor, supplies cedar reign and that it took seven years, Raising funds for
for the paneling as well as labor. which puts completion at around the First Temple
According to 1 Kings 6:7, the stone 964 bce. Rabbinic sources say
is finished at the quarry before the Temple stood for 410 years, According to 1 Chronicles
being transported to the Temple, so yet records show that it was 22:14, King David sets aside
that “no hammer, chisel or any other destroyed by the Babylonians in funds and materials for the
iron tool was heard at the Temple around 587 bce, 30 years earlier Temple before he dies. They
included “a hundred thousand
site while it was being built.” than those dates indicate. The talents of gold, a million talents
most likely site is Temple Mount, of silver, quantities of bronze
The priests move in now occupied by the Dome of the and iron too great to be
Once the Temple has been Rock, an Islamic shrine, where weighed, and wood and stone.”
completed, the priests move God’s the Prophet Muhammad is said In modern terms, this equates
ceremonial equipment from the to have ascended to heaven. ■ to 3,750 tons of gold and
tabernacle to the Temple and a 37,000 tons of silver.
feast is held for 14 days. From then King David also appeals
on, a daily sacrifice of lamb is made for donations. Gold, silver, iron,
in the morning, with a second bronze, and precious stones
lamb and cereal sacrificed by the are given by families, leaders
high priest Zadok on the Sabbath. of the 12 tribes, commanders,
Singing and prayers are part of When the Queen of and those in charge of the
worship. Only the high priest is Sheba heard about the works. Huge quantities of
wood, especially cedar, are
permitted to enter the Holy of fame of Solomon and his imported from Tyre. David
Holies, and then only on the relationship to the Lord, promises King Hiram of
Day of Atonement (see pp. 86–87). she came to test Solomon Tyre to pay his craftsmen
Jerusalem is now established with hard questions. whatever wages Hiram
as a holy city. Zadok and his 1 Kings 10:1 requires; by the end of the
descendants control the Temple until project Solomon is greatly
the Babylonian Exile in 597 bce. in debt and is forced to give
It is difficult to pinpoint when 20 towns in Galilee to Hiram
Solomon’s Temple was completed. as payment (1 Kings 9:11).
The Bible says construction started





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124 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 125


I HAVE DIRECTED GO AND PRESENT



THE RAVENS TO YOURSELF TO AHAB,


AND I WILL SEND
FEED YOU THERE RAIN ON THE LAND





1 KINGS 17:4, A PROPHET IN HIDING 1 KINGS 18:1, ELIJAH AND THE PROPHETS OF BAAL




he prophet Elijah makes God’s protection of Elijah in he story of the religious to summon lightning. Finally, Elijah
IN BRIEF his first biblical appearance unexpected ways—ravens, which IN BRIEF duel on Mount Carmel is takes 12 stones—one for each tribe
T during the reign of King are unclean in Israelite law, and T a highly dramatic tale of Israel—and builds an altar. He
PASSAGE Ahab. The king marries the Tyrian through the poor widow—shows PASSAGE that serves to demonstrate God’s pours water over the wood, then
1 Kings 16:29–17:24 1 Kings 18
princess Jezebel, who persuades His care for the faithful. Ravens power. The drought God had prays. To everyone’s amazement, a
THEME him to set aside God in favor of also reference God’s protecting THEME ordained has raged for three years bolt of fire consumes the altar, even
God protects His prophet the god Baal and the goddess love in Job 38. Their ubiquity in Authority over pagan gods when He tells the prophet Elijah the water. Reminded of God’s
Asherah. Although the Bible does ancient Israel was seen as a sign to return from hiding in the power, the people proclaim Him
SETTING not explicitly say so, scholars also that God’s love is everywhere. ■ SETTING wilderness and seek out Ahab. He as the only true God. The miracle
During King Ahab’s reign suggest other acts of depravity are During King Ahab’s reign promises rain will once again fall. also shows how God answers the
(873–852 bce) Samaria and being committed at court, including (873–852 bce) Mount Carmel On the way, Elijah meets Ahab’s prayers of the righteous, as he
the brook Cherith, flowing east ritual sex and child sacrifice. and the city of Jezreel. administrator, Obadiah, a secret sends the rain Elijah asks for and
of the Jordan River. It is at this point that Elijah follower of God who reveals that he protects the faithful Obadiah. ■
arrives, warning the errant Ahab KEY FIGURES is hiding 100 believers from Queen
KEY FIGURES of a drought: “There will be neither Elijah God’s prophet, who Jezebel. Obadiah is afraid for his
Elijah A prophet of God who dew nor rain in the next few years challenges King Ahab to life, as he must reveal Elijah’s
challenges King Ahab and except at my word” (1 Kings 17:1). a religious duel in order to return to Ahab. However, Elijah
then must go into hiding. However, speaking out puts Elijah’s demonstrate the power of God. immediately challenges the royal
King Ahab The sinful king life at risk and God tells him to King Ahab The king of Israel, couple. He blames them for the When all the people
of Israel who rejects God go to the brook Cherith (east of who fails to recognize that drought, as they have disobeyed saw this, they fell
and worships the Canaanite the Jordan River). the drought is God’s wrath God and instead worshipped Baal. prostrate and cried,
god Baal. Elijah survives by drinking the for his sins.
water and eating meat brought Test of two gods ‘The LORD—he is God.
Queen Jezebel King Ahab’s twice a day by ravens, as God has Obadiah The King’s servant, To decide which god is the most The LORD—he is God!’
wife, who encourages him to promised, until the brook runs dry. who is secretly a loyal follower powerful, Elijah proposes a public 1 Kings 18:39
worship Baal. God then leads Elijah to Phoenicia Elijah hides in the wilderness of God. competition at Mount Carmel.
and safety within the house of a The test for God and Baal is to
The ravens Intelligent and widow, where, with God’s help, in this anonymous work from the Queen Jezebel Ahab’s wife, incinerate a sacrificial bull. The 450
mystical birds that feed Elijah Elijah performs a miracle by collection of Petit Palais, Musée who seeks to kill prophets who prophets of Baal pray, dance, and
des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris.
during the drought. bringing her son back to life. God sends ravens to bring him food. worship God. mutilate themselves, but are unable

See also: Ruth and Naomi 108–09 ■ Elijah and the Prophets of Baal 125 ■ See also: The Fall 30–35 ■ Tower of Babel 42–43 ■ The Golden Calf 84–85
The Suffering of Job 146–47 ■ The Good Samaritan 216–17







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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 125


GO AND PRESENT


YOURSELF TO AHAB,



AND I WILL SEND


RAIN ON THE LAND



1 KINGS 18:1, ELIJAH AND THE PROPHETS OF BAAL




he story of the religious to summon lightning. Finally, Elijah
IN BRIEF duel on Mount Carmel is takes 12 stones—one for each tribe
T a highly dramatic tale of Israel—and builds an altar. He
PASSAGE that serves to demonstrate God’s pours water over the wood, then
1 Kings 18
power. The drought God had prays. To everyone’s amazement, a
THEME ordained has raged for three years bolt of fire consumes the altar, even
Authority over pagan gods when He tells the prophet Elijah the water. Reminded of God’s
to return from hiding in the power, the people proclaim Him
SETTING wilderness and seek out Ahab. He as the only true God. The miracle
During King Ahab’s reign promises rain will once again fall. also shows how God answers the
(873–852 bce) Mount Carmel On the way, Elijah meets Ahab’s prayers of the righteous, as he
and the city of Jezreel. administrator, Obadiah, a secret sends the rain Elijah asks for and
follower of God who reveals that he protects the faithful Obadiah. ■
KEY FIGURES is hiding 100 believers from Queen
Elijah God’s prophet, who Jezebel. Obadiah is afraid for his
challenges King Ahab to life, as he must reveal Elijah’s
a religious duel in order to return to Ahab. However, Elijah
demonstrate the power of God. immediately challenges the royal
King Ahab The king of Israel, couple. He blames them for the When all the people
who fails to recognize that drought, as they have disobeyed saw this, they fell
the drought is God’s wrath God and instead worshipped Baal. prostrate and cried,
for his sins.
Test of two gods ‘The LORD—he is God.
Obadiah The King’s servant, To decide which god is the most The LORD—he is God!’
who is secretly a loyal follower powerful, Elijah proposes a public 1 Kings 18:39
of God. competition at Mount Carmel.
The test for God and Baal is to
Queen Jezebel Ahab’s wife, incinerate a sacrificial bull. The 450
who seeks to kill prophets who prophets of Baal pray, dance, and
worship God. mutilate themselves, but are unable

See also: The Fall 30–35 ■ Tower of Babel 42–43 ■ The Golden Calf 84–85








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126 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 127

See also: A Prophet in Hiding 124 ■ Elijah and the Prophets of Baal 125
LET ME INHERIT burning chariot divides him from be more different. Elijah was born competently carries on his legacy,


A DOUBLE PORTION Elisha. Indeed, it is more of a and raised in rural Gilead beyond counseling the rulers of the time

and continuing to produce many
the Jordan River, probably in a poor
disappearance than a death, and
he later returns to Earth, along
family, whereas Elisha is the son of
OF YOUR SPIRIT with the prophet Moses (see a wealthy Israelite landowner. more miracles in service to God. ■
While there is no doubting that
pp. 234–35). The chariot of fire
A fiery chariot carries Elijah to
2 KINGS 2:9, THE CHARIOT OF FIRE Elisha sees has connotations with Elijah has the harder task of the heaven in this 16th-century Russian
God’s heavenly host of angels,
two in rekindling the Israelites’
icon. Although the Bible mentions
which further suggests that Elijah faith in God and turning them horses of fire, the presence of angels,
does not simply die, but joins the away from the god Baal, Elisha seen here, is not explicitly stated.
ranks of God’s faithful in heaven.
When Elijah disappears, Elisha
cries out and rips his garments in
two, an action that is often a
lijah’s impressive exit master is “a double portion of your response to calamity in the Bible.
IN BRIEF from this world stands spirit” (2 Kings 2:9), a phrasing that He picks up Elijah’s cloak and
E as testament to his references Israel’s inheritance laws. strikes the Jordan River with it.
PASSAGE importance as a prophet and Although land was shared out The waters part, just as they did for
2 Kings 2
faithful servant of God. Both he between a man’s sons when he Elijah, and Elisha crosses the river
THEME and his disciple Elisha know in died, the eldest would receive a on dry land. Prophets from Jericho
The ascension of a prophet advance that God will take him larger share—two portions of land. witness the miracle and proclaim
to heaven and are able to prepare. By asking for this, Elisha wishes that “the spirit of Elijah is resting
SETTING Devoted to Elijah to the end, to confirm himself as Elijah’s on Elisha” (2:15). They hail Elisha as
Around 850 bce Elisha refuses three times to leave spiritual heir and successor. Elijah’s chosen successor.
Banks of the Jordan River. his master in his last moments.
Elijah uses his cloak to part the The prophet ascends Two contrasting leaders
KEY FIGURES waters of the Jordan River before Elijah’s ascension to heaven occurs Elijah and Elisha are both chosen
Elijah A prophet who urges asking whether there is any last quite suddenly as the two men by God, who empowers them
the people of Israel to abandon request he can grant his disciple. walk together. He is swept away to carry out miraculous deeds.
their worship of Baal and The only thing Elisha asks of his dramatically in a whirlwind, as a Yet, their backgrounds could not
return to the worship of
the true God.
Elijah
Elisha A faithful servant
of Elijah and the prophet Little is known about Elijah’s Israelites back to the worship
chosen by God to be Elijah’s life before his sudden of the one true God and away
successor. Over the course of appearance as a prophet about from the worship of Baal and Suddenly a chariot of
60 years, he builds on Elijah’s halfway through the reign of other pagan deities. fire and horses of fire
In the conflict with Baal’s
Ahab, the son of Omri. This
work by teaching the would put Elijah’s emergence priests, Elijah aims to show appeared and separated
Israelites the ways of God. as a prophet at around 864 bce. the supremacy of monotheism the two of them, and
Mostly, Elijah’s activities are over pagan polytheism. A man Elijah went up to heaven
confined to the northern of firm and unflinching faith, in a whirlwind.
kingdom, although he is forced Elijah constantly teaches that 2 Kings 2:11
to take refuge elsewhere when there is no god except the
fleeing from Ahab’s wrath. God of Israel, a statement
Throughout his relatively brief backed up by the translation
career, Elijah has one main of His name, which means
purpose: This is to turn the “My God is Jehovah.”







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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 127

See also: A Prophet in Hiding 124 ■ Elijah and the Prophets of Baal 125



burning chariot divides him from be more different. Elijah was born competently carries on his legacy,
Elisha. Indeed, it is more of a and raised in rural Gilead beyond counseling the rulers of the time
disappearance than a death, and the Jordan River, probably in a poor and continuing to produce many
he later returns to Earth, along family, whereas Elisha is the son of more miracles in service to God. ■
with the prophet Moses (see a wealthy Israelite landowner.
pp. 234–35). The chariot of fire While there is no doubting that
Elisha sees has connotations with Elijah has the harder task of the A fiery chariot carries Elijah to
heaven in this 16th-century Russian
God’s heavenly host of angels, two in rekindling the Israelites’ icon. Although the Bible mentions
which further suggests that Elijah faith in God and turning them horses of fire, the presence of angels,
does not simply die, but joins the away from the god Baal, Elisha seen here, is not explicitly stated.
ranks of God’s faithful in heaven.
When Elijah disappears, Elisha
cries out and rips his garments in
two, an action that is often a
response to calamity in the Bible.
He picks up Elijah’s cloak and
strikes the Jordan River with it.
The waters part, just as they did for
Elijah, and Elisha crosses the river
on dry land. Prophets from Jericho
witness the miracle and proclaim
that “the spirit of Elijah is resting
on Elisha” (2:15). They hail Elisha as
Elijah’s chosen successor.

Two contrasting leaders
Elijah and Elisha are both chosen
by God, who empowers them
to carry out miraculous deeds.
Yet, their backgrounds could not







Suddenly a chariot of
fire and horses of fire
appeared and separated
the two of them, and
Elijah went up to heaven
in a whirlwind.
2 Kings 2:11













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128 IN BRIEF See also: Entering the Promised Land 92–93 ■ The Fall of Jericho 98–99 ■ THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 129

Assyria and the
SO JUDAH WENT PASSAGE The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ Rebuilding Jerusalem 133 divided kingdom

2 Kings 24–25
Dating back as early as the
The Two Nations
as his puppet. Egypt’s power soon
25th century bce, Assyria
begins to wane, however, largely
INTO CAPTIVITY, THEME as a result of the threat posed was a huge empire and an
Exile
amalgamation of numerous
by the Babylonians led by the
Middle Eastern states that
SETTING
conqueror Nebuchadnezzar II. He
continually changed in size
6th century bce Jerusalem,
AWAY FROM central Judah. ISRAEL Sea and his rampaging armies present and influence until its
of Galilee
a far greater danger to Jerusalem.
eventual collapse between
As the Babylonian army approaches
612 and 599 bce. At its peak,
KEY FIGURES
the walls of the holy city, Jehoiakim
Assyria stretched from the
Nebuchadnezzar II The
HER LAND conquering King of Babylon, (Northern switches allegiances and pledges eastern Mediterranean to Iran,
Kingdom)
as well as into Egypt, Libya,
his support to Nebuchadnezzar
722 BCE
who invades Jerusalem.
in an attempt to appease him and
and the Arabian Peninsula.
Assyria played a key part
persuade him to spare Jerusalem.
Jehoiakim Puppet-king
The arrangement works and
2 KINGS 25:21, THE FALL of Judah installed by the Jerusalem Dead Sea for three years Jerusalem is in Israelite history between
734 and 724 bce, when the
Egyptians from 609–597 bce.
10-tribe kingdom of northern
unmolested. However, when a
OF JERUSALEM Father and predecessor (Southern planned Babylonian invasion of Israel (called Israel) was
JUDAH
of Jehoiachin.
Kingdom) Egypt fails, Jehoiakim rebels and conquered by several Assyrian
Jehoiachin King of Judah for 586 BCE incurs Nebuchadnezzar’s wrath. monarchs and many of the
inhabitants were taken
three months in 598–597 bce. In 598 bce, the Babylonian armies captive. During this 10-year
attack Jerusalem and Jehoiakim period – known as the
Zedekiah King of Judah from then dies, possibly during the
597 bc up until the time of the ensuing conflict. Assyrian Exile – the groups
exiled by Assyria became
Babylonian siege in 586 bce. fortunes have ebbed and flowed known as the Ten Lost Tribes
Uncle of Jehoiachin. over the centuries, but the death The last days of Judah of Israel as, unlike those in
of the virtuous King Josiah while Jehoiachin, the son of Jehoiakim, the Kingdom of Judah, the
battling the Egyptians in 609 bce becomes the new king of Judah northern Israelite tribes were
prompts a dramatic downturn. at only 18 years of age. He rules never allowed to return to
n 586 bce, after a long siege, Josiah is a great reformer and for just three months before their homeland.
the Babylonians under King a devoutly religious man, who Nebuchadnezzar and his armies
I Nebuchadnezzar II, capture serves the Lord “with all his heart besiege Jerusalem once more,
Jerusalem, holy city of the Israelites and with all his soul and with all forcing the young king to surrender.
and capital of the kingdom of Judah. his strength” (2 Kings 23:25). His Although on this occasion he
The utter destruction of both the successors fall short of this spares Jerusalem from destruction,
city and the Temple of Solomon mark standard and their weak and Nebuchadnezzar carries off the
the start of a dark period for the impious actions have devastating king, all his family and officials,
Israelites: a punishment from God consequences for Judah. and a further 10,000 Israelites,
for their misdeeds. It is nearly marking the start of what is
50 years before they are able to Power struggle known as the Babylonian Exile
return and rebuild their city. After Josiah’s death, the kingdom or Babylonian Captivity. He also
These dramatic events are of Judah becomes a pawn in the seizes treasures from the royal
related at the end of 2 Kings, a struggle between the warring palace and the Temple of Solomon.
tumultuous book, which recounts nations of Egypt and Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar installs
a litany of bad rulers, catastrophe, Jehoahaz, Josiah’s son and heir, Jehoiachin’s uncle, Zedekiah, on Nebuchadnezzar II was an
and the ultimate loss of the two is deposed and imprisoned by the throne of Judah, where “Only the Assyrian King of Babylon who
Jewish nations (the Assyrians had the Egyptian pharaoh, who then poorest people of the land were left” ruled from c.605–562 bce. During
this time, Assyria was incorporated
conquered the northern kingdom, installs Jehoiakim, a younger son (2 Kings 24:14). The Bible makes into the Neo-Babylonian empire.
Israel, in 722 bce). Jerusalem’s of Josiah, on the throne of Judah it explicitly clear that God is ❯❯
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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 129

See also: Entering the Promised Land 92–93 ■ The Fall of Jericho 98–99 ■ Assyria and the
The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ Rebuilding Jerusalem 133
divided kingdom

The Two Nations as his puppet. Egypt’s power soon Dating back as early as the
begins to wane, however, largely 25th century bce, Assyria
as a result of the threat posed was a huge empire and an
by the Babylonians led by the amalgamation of numerous
Middle Eastern states that
conqueror Nebuchadnezzar II. He continually changed in size
and his rampaging armies present
Sea and influence until its
of Galilee
a far greater danger to Jerusalem. eventual collapse between
As the Babylonian army approaches 612 and 599 bce. At its peak,
the walls of the holy city, Jehoiakim Assyria stretched from the
ISRAEL
(Northern switches allegiances and pledges eastern Mediterranean to Iran,
Kingdom)
722 BCE his support to Nebuchadnezzar as well as into Egypt, Libya,
in an attempt to appease him and and the Arabian Peninsula.
persuade him to spare Jerusalem. Assyria played a key part
Jerusalem The arrangement works and in Israelite history between
for three years Jerusalem is 734 and 724 bce, when the
Dead Sea unmolested. However, when a 10-tribe kingdom of northern
JUDAH planned Babylonian invasion of Israel (called Israel) was
(Southern conquered by several Assyrian
Kingdom) Egypt fails, Jehoiakim rebels and
586 BCE monarchs and many of the
incurs Nebuchadnezzar’s wrath. inhabitants were taken
In 598 bce, the Babylonian armies captive. During this 10-year
attack Jerusalem and Jehoiakim period – known as the
then dies, possibly during the Assyrian Exile – the groups
ensuing conflict. exiled by Assyria became
fortunes have ebbed and flowed known as the Ten Lost Tribes
over the centuries, but the death The last days of Judah of Israel as, unlike those in
of the virtuous King Josiah while Jehoiachin, the son of Jehoiakim, the Kingdom of Judah, the
battling the Egyptians in 609 bce becomes the new king of Judah northern Israelite tribes were
prompts a dramatic downturn. at only 18 years of age. He rules never allowed to return to
Josiah is a great reformer and for just three months before their homeland.
a devoutly religious man, who Nebuchadnezzar and his armies
serves the Lord “with all his heart besiege Jerusalem once more,
and with all his soul and with all forcing the young king to surrender.
his strength” (2 Kings 23:25). His Although on this occasion he
successors fall short of this spares Jerusalem from destruction,
standard and their weak and Nebuchadnezzar carries off the
impious actions have devastating king, all his family and officials,
consequences for Judah. and a further 10,000 Israelites,
marking the start of what is
Power struggle known as the Babylonian Exile
After Josiah’s death, the kingdom or Babylonian Captivity. He also
of Judah becomes a pawn in the seizes treasures from the royal
struggle between the warring palace and the Temple of Solomon.
nations of Egypt and Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar installs
Jehoahaz, Josiah’s son and heir, Jehoiachin’s uncle, Zedekiah, on Nebuchadnezzar II was an
is deposed and imprisoned by the throne of Judah, where “Only the Assyrian King of Babylon who
the Egyptian pharaoh, who then poorest people of the land were left” ruled from c.605–562 bce. During
this time, Assyria was incorporated
installs Jehoiakim, a younger son (2 Kings 24:14). The Bible makes into the Neo-Babylonian empire.
of Josiah, on the throne of Judah it explicitly clear that God is ❯❯





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130 THE FALL OF JERUSALEM THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 131


explanation was that Judah, and archaeological findings and early
Israel before it, had neglected their accounts. These include a passage
worship of God. The Lord had from the Babylonian Chronicles,
repeatedly warned both nations a set of ancient tablets discovered
that their ways were unjust and in the 19th century that describes
immoral, and they must repent of … Jerusalem will the sack of Jerusalem in 597 bce,
their own idol worship. He had become a heap of and also Jehoiachin’s “rations
made it clear that the penalty for rubble, the Temple hill tablets,” which were unearthed
failure to return to worship of Him a mound overgrown from Nebuchadnezzar’s royal
alone would be exile. with thickets. archives during excavations in
The people of Judah had not Micah 3:12 Babylon in the early 20th century.
changed their ways and now, as Evidence of the Babylonian
God warned in 2 Kings 21:12, a rampage through central Judah
fearful judgment had come fulfilling in 588–586 bce also includes
the prophecies of Jeremiah (see pottery fragments, known as clay
pp.156–159). God’s response ostraca, and the world-renowned
to the Israelites’ neglect follows a Lachish letters, a series of ancient
similar pattern to His treatment release of Jehoiachin from prison, Hebrew missives written in carbon
of Pharaoh in Exodus. In both when Amel-Marduk succeeds ink on clay tablets, which were
cases, God delivers repeated Nebuchadnezzar as king. Although discovered during excavations at
warnings that are ignored. The still held in Babylon, Jehoiachin Tel Lachish in 1935.
judgment that follows is final. dines at the king’s table and is The seismic events of the early
As 2 Kings draws to a close, even given a regular stipend. 6th century bce undoubtedly
the situation is dire. The holy city occurred as poor leadership and
is destroyed, the Temple has been Historical evidence a difficult geographical position
obliterated, and all the most The biblical account of the fall left the people of Judah vulnerable
unhappy with his appointment, murder of his children. The king’s The ancient city of Jerusalem lies prominent members of Judah’s of Jerusalem and the exile of the to their larger, more powerful
Zedekiah “did evil in the eyes own eyes are then gouged out by burning after the Babylonian conquest society are in exile in Babylon. Judean people to Babylon largely neighbors. The Bible’s message
of the Lord, just as Jehoiakim had the Babylonians, so that the last in this engraving by 17th-century artist However, as if to offer a shred corresponds with historical is clear about its cause, however.
done” (2 Kings 24:19). Zedekiah thing he ever sees is the death of Jan Luyken. The people are led into of hope after these harrowing evidence. The narrative is God’s people strayed from His way
is just as bad as his predecessors his sons. Blind and defeated, he exile as the city is destroyed. events, 2 Kings ends with the corroborated by a wealth of and, as a result, were punished. ■
and leads the holy city further is taken to Babylon in chains.
away from God, into the hands they now faced exile from their The failure of The destruction of Jerusalem by proposal to the people of Judah,
of its oppressors. Jerusalem destroyed devastated city and were subject Sennacherib Babylon’s King Nebuchadnezzar II he blasphemes against God,
After nine years of presiding Over the following two months, to the rule of the Babylonians. was not the first attempt to saying that no god of any nation
over a ravaged Jerusalem, afflicted Nebuchadnezzar orders a further conquer Judah’s holy city. Earlier has ever been able to stand up
by chronic famine and shortages, deportation of the population of A vengeful God in 2 Kings (18:17–35), the Assyrian to his might. Hezekiah, the king
Zedekiah rebels against Assyria Judah and lays waste to Jerusalem. Although Jerusalem lies in King Sennacherib attempts to of Judah at that time, tells God
with the help of the Egyptians. The city is completely destroyed, ruins and the vast majority of its strike a deal with the people of of Sennacherib’s heresy and
His actions are quickly countered including the fortifications and population is deported to Babylon, Jerusalem that would allow him his bold claims that he will
by those of Nebuchadnezzar, who the Temple of Solomon. The there is evidence to confirm that to take control of the city and take Jerusalem. He calls on
marches on Jerusalem and lays destruction of the Temple is other parts of Judah continued become their ruler. God to deliver His people from
siege to the city for 18 months. especially significant. For nearly to be inhabited after the exile. A hugely successful conqueror, Sennacherib and preserve the
Jerusalem falls into utter chaos, 400 years, the Temple had stood With the loss of their holy city and Sennacherib has already colonized holy city. The angel of the Lord
with the famine in the city so grave in the heart of Jerusalem as the Temple, those who remained must large areas of the Middle East then goes into the Assyrian
camp at night and strikes
and significantly expanded the
that parents eat their own children ultimate symbol of the Israelite have wondered how all this could Assyrian Empire. His reputation 185,000 Assyrian soldiers dead
in order to survive. Finally, in July religion. Its destruction illustrates come to pass. Why would God has made him arrogant, and he (2 Kings 19:35). Sennacherib is
of 586 bce, Jerusalem’s walls are just how far the Israelites had allow a nation of idol-worshippers— believes that taking Jerusalem later murdered in suspicious
breached by the Babylonians. strayed from God, and their failure the Babylonians—to overthrow His will be a relatively simple circumstances by his own sons,
Zedekiah attempts to escape, but is to keep their covenant with Him. own people, who worshipped only undertaking. When making his and God is once more avenged.
captured and forced to watch the Having not heeded God’s warnings, the one true Lord? The only





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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 131


explanation was that Judah, and archaeological findings and early
Israel before it, had neglected their accounts. These include a passage
worship of God. The Lord had from the Babylonian Chronicles,
repeatedly warned both nations a set of ancient tablets discovered
that their ways were unjust and in the 19th century that describes
immoral, and they must repent of … Jerusalem will the sack of Jerusalem in 597 bce,
their own idol worship. He had become a heap of and also Jehoiachin’s “rations
made it clear that the penalty for rubble, the Temple hill tablets,” which were unearthed
failure to return to worship of Him a mound overgrown from Nebuchadnezzar’s royal
alone would be exile. with thickets. archives during excavations in
The people of Judah had not Micah 3:12 Babylon in the early 20th century.
changed their ways and now, as Evidence of the Babylonian
God warned in 2 Kings 21:12, a rampage through central Judah
fearful judgment had come fulfilling in 588–586 bce also includes
the prophecies of Jeremiah (see pottery fragments, known as clay
pp.156–159). God’s response ostraca, and the world-renowned
to the Israelites’ neglect follows a Lachish letters, a series of ancient
similar pattern to His treatment release of Jehoiachin from prison, Hebrew missives written in carbon
of Pharaoh in Exodus. In both when Amel-Marduk succeeds ink on clay tablets, which were
cases, God delivers repeated Nebuchadnezzar as king. Although discovered during excavations at
warnings that are ignored. The still held in Babylon, Jehoiachin Tel Lachish in 1935.
judgment that follows is final. dines at the king’s table and is The seismic events of the early
As 2 Kings draws to a close, even given a regular stipend. 6th century bce undoubtedly
the situation is dire. The holy city occurred as poor leadership and
is destroyed, the Temple has been Historical evidence a difficult geographical position
obliterated, and all the most The biblical account of the fall left the people of Judah vulnerable
prominent members of Judah’s of Jerusalem and the exile of the to their larger, more powerful
society are in exile in Babylon. Judean people to Babylon largely neighbors. The Bible’s message
However, as if to offer a shred corresponds with historical is clear about its cause, however.
of hope after these harrowing evidence. The narrative is God’s people strayed from His way
events, 2 Kings ends with the corroborated by a wealth of and, as a result, were punished. ■

The failure of The destruction of Jerusalem by proposal to the people of Judah,
Sennacherib Babylon’s King Nebuchadnezzar II he blasphemes against God,
was not the first attempt to saying that no god of any nation
conquer Judah’s holy city. Earlier has ever been able to stand up
in 2 Kings (18:17–35), the Assyrian to his might. Hezekiah, the king
King Sennacherib attempts to of Judah at that time, tells God
strike a deal with the people of of Sennacherib’s heresy and
Jerusalem that would allow him his bold claims that he will
to take control of the city and take Jerusalem. He calls on
become their ruler. God to deliver His people from
A hugely successful conqueror, Sennacherib and preserve the
Sennacherib has already colonized holy city. The angel of the Lord
large areas of the Middle East then goes into the Assyrian
and significantly expanded the camp at night and strikes
Assyrian Empire. His reputation 185,000 Assyrian soldiers dead
has made him arrogant, and he (2 Kings 19:35). Sennacherib is
believes that taking Jerusalem later murdered in suspicious
will be a relatively simple circumstances by his own sons,
undertaking. When making his and God is once more avenged.







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132 THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 133


I WILL GO TO HEAR US, OUR



THE KING … IF I GOD, FOR WE




PERISH, I PERISH ARE DESPISED





ESTHER 4:16, QUEEN ESTHER NEHEMIAH 4:4, REBUILDING JERUSALEM




he story of Esther is one of At a banquet, Esther reveals her ost scholars agree that
IN BRIEF only two books in the Bible heritage and pleads for her people, IN BRIEF Nehemiah’s existence is
T that makes no reference to thus fulfilling her divine purpose. M rooted in historical fact.
PASSAGE God (the other is Song of Songs). To her relief, the king turns his fury PASSAGE This great organizer and devout
Esther 1–10 Nehemiah 1–13
The tale of a Jewish queen who on Haman, who is executed. follower of God is credited with
THEME speaks up to save her people, it was Although the royal decree THEME rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem,
Salvation from unlikely likely included to show how even a cannot be withdrawn, the king Jerusalem is restored as well as continuing to revive the
sources silent God causes good to triumph. allows the Jews to defend city and its people’s worship of God.
Esther becomes the wife of King themselves and no one can stand SETTING While serving as the cup bearer
SETTING Ahasuerus after he sets aside his against them. This event is still c. 445 bce during the reign of to King Artaxerxes I, Nehemiah
486–465 bce During the previous wife, Queen Vashti, for commemorated as Purim, named Artaxerxes I, king of Persia. receives his sovereign’s permission
reign of King Ahasuerus. The refusing to appear before guests. after the Hebrew word for the lots Susa, the Persian capital, and to return to his ancestral homeland
Persian capital city of Susa in A beautiful girl, Esther has been (dice) used by Haman to decide then Jerusalem, capital of the of Jerusalem and rebuild the city’s The Jews hold weapons along with
modern-day Iran. raised by a relative, Mordecai, but when to kill the Jews. ■ kingdom of Judah. walls. On his arrival, he organizes their tools as they rebuild the wall. This
does not reveal her Jewish heritage the wall’s restoration, but struggles etching (1852–1860) by Julius Schnorr
KEY FIGURES to the king. The king is delighted KEY FIGURES to motivate the demoralized and von Carolsfeld shows the threat of
Esther An orphaned Jew who with his wife and with Mordecai, Nehemiah An important royal divided Jewish people. violence the Jews faced while working.
becomes Queen of Persia. who uncovers an assassination official who sets out to rebuild
Mordecai Esther’s cousin and plot against him. Unfortunately, the walls of Jerusalem. Faith restored his faith is rewarded. The wall is
her only family. Mordecai offends the chief minister Ezra A scribe-priest who Nehemiah and the Jews are also rebuilt in just 52 days. Nehemiah
Haman, who vows to destroy all Who knows but that works with Nehemiah to opposed by many disparate groups: then gathers everyone together to
King Ahasuerus King of Jews and obtains a royal decree to you have come to restore the city of Jerusalem. Arabs, Philistines, Ammonites, and dedicate the newly defended city to
Persia and husband of Esther. murder and plunder, without telling your royal position for Samaritans led by Sanballat the God and hear Ezra read the Law of
Probably the historical figure the king whom he is targeting. such a time as this? King Artaxerxes I King Horonite. Agreeing on nothing else Moses. The people revive the feast
Xerxes I, known as Xerxes Mordecai asks the queen to Esther 4:16 of Persia. but their opposition to the Jews, of Sukkot, commemorating the
the Great intervene. She is reluctant, as it is they hinder their work on the walls Israelites’ years in the wilderness.
punishable by death to approach Sanballat the Horonite through insults, scorn, and terror. Jerusalem is now reborn, with
Haman The king’s chief the king, but the devout Mordecai The Samaritan governor, Nehemiah turns to God, praying Nehemiah having corrected the
minister and Mordecai’s believes God has placed Esther in who seeks to sabotage the for Him to acknowledge everything disobedience to God that caused
sworn enemy. her exalted position to do His work. restoration work. His people have had to endure, and the city to fall. ■

See also: Ruth and Naomi 108–09 See also: Entering the Promised Land 96–97 ■ The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31








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THE HISTORICAL BOOKS 133


HEAR US, OUR



GOD, FOR WE




ARE DESPISED





NEHEMIAH 4:4, REBUILDING JERUSALEM




ost scholars agree that
IN BRIEF Nehemiah’s existence is
M rooted in historical fact.
PASSAGE This great organizer and devout
Nehemiah 1–13
follower of God is credited with
THEME rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem,
Jerusalem is restored as well as continuing to revive the
city and its people’s worship of God.
SETTING While serving as the cup bearer
c. 445 bce during the reign of to King Artaxerxes I, Nehemiah
Artaxerxes I, king of Persia. receives his sovereign’s permission
Susa, the Persian capital, and to return to his ancestral homeland
then Jerusalem, capital of the of Jerusalem and rebuild the city’s The Jews hold weapons along with
kingdom of Judah. walls. On his arrival, he organizes their tools as they rebuild the wall. This
the wall’s restoration, but struggles etching (1852–1860) by Julius Schnorr
KEY FIGURES to motivate the demoralized and von Carolsfeld shows the threat of
Nehemiah An important royal divided Jewish people. violence the Jews faced while working.
official who sets out to rebuild
the walls of Jerusalem. Faith restored his faith is rewarded. The wall is
Ezra A scribe-priest who Nehemiah and the Jews are also rebuilt in just 52 days. Nehemiah
works with Nehemiah to opposed by many disparate groups: then gathers everyone together to
restore the city of Jerusalem. Arabs, Philistines, Ammonites, and dedicate the newly defended city to
Samaritans led by Sanballat the God and hear Ezra read the Law of
King Artaxerxes I King Horonite. Agreeing on nothing else Moses. The people revive the feast
of Persia. but their opposition to the Jews, of Sukkot, commemorating the
they hinder their work on the walls Israelites’ years in the wilderness.
Sanballat the Horonite through insults, scorn, and terror. Jerusalem is now reborn, with
The Samaritan governor, Nehemiah turns to God, praying Nehemiah having corrected the
who seeks to sabotage the for Him to acknowledge everything disobedience to God that caused
restoration work. His people have had to endure, and the city to fall. ■

See also: Entering the Promised Land 96–97 ■ The Fall of Jerusalem 128–31








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WISDOM ANDWISDOM AND















PROPHETSPROPHETS





























































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WISDOM AND















PROPHETS





























































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136 INTRODUCTION WISDOM AND PROPHETS 137




God gives Satan Collections of wise The fall of Jerusalem God shuts the
permission to test sayings provide Israel, in the form of the to the Babylonians is mouths of the lions The Prophet Micah
Job’s faithfulness advice for young “Suffering Servant,” mourned in five poems, when the Prophet fulminates against the
with a series of persons setting out seeks comfort and expressing anger Daniel is thrown sinful behavior of
misfortunes. in the world. hope in God. toward God. into a lions’ den. the citizens of Judah.





JOB THE ISAIAH LAMENTATIONS DANIEL MICAH
1–2:7 PROVERBS 52:13–53:12 1–5 6:22 3:1–12


THE SONG OF JEREMIAH EZEKIEL JONAH ZEPHANIAH
PSALMS SONGS 1:4–9 37:10 1:17–2:9 1–3:5







Five books of 150 The “beloved” and her God chooses Jeremiah The Prophet Ezekiel God sends a fish to swallow The Prophet
psalms express companion (“He”) convey before he is even born has a vision in which the Prophet Jonah, who Zephaniah calls on the
praise and their love for one another to be a prophet to a vast army arises has disobeyed His Israelites to repent and
trust in God. in sensual imagery. the nations. from the Valley of command to preach to warns of the coming
Dried Bones. the Ninevites. “Day of the Lord.”


wo of the most crucial, edited, and collected much of poems are dark and sorrowful, else, while Song of Songs is joyful all of which happened when Assyria not all Gentiles are portrayed
defining moments in the Hebrew Bible, including the crying out to God for help in times love poetry, replete with erotic and Babylon came to power. Yet, positively. God’s threat to evil
T Israelite history are the poetical and wisdom literature of trouble. Psalms provides an imagery and descriptions of during the exile, the possibility of foreign powers is prominent in
“exile,” when the Israelites were and the books of the prophets. array of expression, validating physical intimacy. Ecclesiastes, on return became real, and themes apocalyptic literature, and its
forced to leave their homes in the range of human emotions the other hand, asks philosophical of hope and restoration begin emphasis on “the Day of the Lord,”
Canaan and live in foreign lands, An eternal quest experienced by the Israelites in questions about the meaning of to infiltrate the prophetic texts. a terrifying end of the world when
and the “return.” The exile refers to The poetical and wisdom literature times of exile and return. life. The author wonders at the The Major Prophets (Isaiah, God will judge the wicked and
several war-induced migrations, addresses the question of how The mystery of why bad things purpose of labor and education Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel) reward the righteous, appears
especially the ones resulting from one should interact with God and happen to good people is set out when, ultimately, everyone dies. and Lamentations contain an in books such as Joel, Micah,
the Assyrian conquest of Northern the world. These writings are in the Book of Job, the account Nevertheless, it ends with a thread expectation that God will dwell Zephaniah, and Malachi.
Israel in 722 BCE and the Babylonian particularly captivating because of a blameless man who loses that gathers the poetical and among the people, love them The idea of the Day of the Lord
invasion of Judah in 597 BCE. they leave the reader without a everything. The story creates a wisdom literature together: forever, and bring them home to a was later paired with a Messianic
In 538 BCE, Persia’s King Darius I singular conclusion; instead, they murky picture of how God interacts regardless of existential realities, new Jerusalem in the future. Daniel expectation that the earth will one
allowed the Israelites to return contain a chorus of responses about with a being called the adversary, or one must always obey God. exemplifies what it means to act day be ruled by God, and Israel will
home. As they rebuilt the Temple, who God is and how one should Satan, who may share responsibility faithfully as a Jew despite constant once again be a united kingdom
they reflected upon their identity as live. Psalms focuses on the nature with God for undeserved suffering. Major and Minor Prophets foreign opposition. in harmony with its neighbors and
God’s people. Questions arose of the divine—as creator, provider, In contrast, Proverbs and Song In the Prophetic Books, the Bible The same themes of doom and the divine. Many scholars believe
about why God would allow them and rescuer—and the human of Songs focus on the practicalities returns to the theme of suffering, hope are explored in the Minor Christians reordered the canon so
to endure such suffering, then response: worship. The book and pleasures of earthly life. which is viewed as retributive Prophets, while also emphasizing that the prophets would be placed
reprieve them, and what this includes hundreds of poems, many Proverbs provides commonsensical punishment for Israel and Judah’s commitment to God. Jonah relays immediately before the New
signified about their relationship of which are praises to God or advice on how to behave, learn, sins. The prophets warn the people the message that God accepts all Testament Gospels, which used
with the divine. To process these songs of thanksgiving for divine and prosper, with wisdom exalted that if they do not follow God’s those who repent and do justice, prophetic texts to support the claim
conundrums, they wrote down, creation and provision. Other as a treasure to be sought above all laws, enemies will destroy them, even if they are not Israelites. Yet that Jesus was the Messiah. ■





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WISDOM AND PROPHETS 137




The fall of Jerusalem God shuts the
to the Babylonians is mouths of the lions The Prophet Micah
mourned in five poems, when the Prophet fulminates against the
expressing anger Daniel is thrown sinful behavior of
toward God. into a lions’ den. the citizens of Judah.





LAMENTATIONS DANIEL MICAH
1–5 6:22 3:1–12


EZEKIEL JONAH ZEPHANIAH
37:10 1:17–2:9 1–3:5







The Prophet Ezekiel God sends a fish to swallow The Prophet
has a vision in which the Prophet Jonah, who Zephaniah calls on the
a vast army arises has disobeyed His Israelites to repent and
from the Valley of command to preach to warns of the coming
Dried Bones. the Ninevites. “Day of the Lord.”


else, while Song of Songs is joyful all of which happened when Assyria not all Gentiles are portrayed
love poetry, replete with erotic and Babylon came to power. Yet, positively. God’s threat to evil
imagery and descriptions of during the exile, the possibility of foreign powers is prominent in
physical intimacy. Ecclesiastes, on return became real, and themes apocalyptic literature, and its
the other hand, asks philosophical of hope and restoration begin emphasis on “the Day of the Lord,”
questions about the meaning of to infiltrate the prophetic texts. a terrifying end of the world when
life. The author wonders at the The Major Prophets (Isaiah, God will judge the wicked and
purpose of labor and education Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel) reward the righteous, appears
when, ultimately, everyone dies. and Lamentations contain an in books such as Joel, Micah,
Nevertheless, it ends with a thread expectation that God will dwell Zephaniah, and Malachi.
that gathers the poetical and among the people, love them The idea of the Day of the Lord
wisdom literature together: forever, and bring them home to a was later paired with a Messianic
regardless of existential realities, new Jerusalem in the future. Daniel expectation that the earth will one
one must always obey God. exemplifies what it means to act day be ruled by God, and Israel will
faithfully as a Jew despite constant once again be a united kingdom
Major and Minor Prophets foreign opposition. in harmony with its neighbors and
In the Prophetic Books, the Bible The same themes of doom and the divine. Many scholars believe
returns to the theme of suffering, hope are explored in the Minor Christians reordered the canon so
which is viewed as retributive Prophets, while also emphasizing that the prophets would be placed
punishment for Israel and Judah’s commitment to God. Jonah relays immediately before the New
sins. The prophets warn the people the message that God accepts all Testament Gospels, which used
that if they do not follow God’s those who repent and do justice, prophetic texts to support the claim
laws, enemies will destroy them, even if they are not Israelites. Yet that Jesus was the Messiah. ■





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THE LORD IS MY






SHEPHERD,












I LACK NOTHING









PSALM 23:1, THE PSALMS









































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140 THE PSALMS WISDOM AND PROPHETS 141

See also: David and Goliath 116–17 ■ The Nature of God 144–45 ■ Proverbs 148–51 ■ Song of Songs 152–53 ■
IN BRIEF Parables of Jesus 214–15
PASSAGE fall before the harvest. It is likely
The Psalms
that at least some of these songs
THEME and hymns were composed
The prayers of the faithful specifically for festival use and
would have played a crucial part
SETTING Why are you downcast, in the ritual life of early Jews. I love you, O Lord,
From 10th century bce In O my soul? my strength. The Lord
the First and Second Temples Why so disturbed within me? Thematic groupings is my rock, my fortress
of Jerusalem. Put your hope in God, The 150 Psalms are divided into and my deliverer;
for I will yet praise him, five books—possibly to reflect my God is my rock,
KEY FIGURES the structure of the Pentateuch—
David The second king of my Savior and my God. and each book concludes with a in whom I take refuge.
Israel and Judah in the 10th Psalm 42:5 doxology, a short formula of praise, Psalm 18:1–2
and 9th century bce. An usually starting: “Praise be to the
enthusiastic sponsor of singers Lord …” They contain a variety of
and musicians, he was known styles and themes. Many are about
as the “hero of Israel’s songs” royal events related to the reign of
(2 Samuel 23:1). King David—73 in total bear his
Asaph A Levite, appointed plagiarized hymns from another. name—while others are more they say much about the heartfelt
directness and honesty of Israel’s
Many of the common Psalm forms
prophetic in nature, or impart
by David as one of the chief were also used in Babylonian and an obvious moral lesson. Side by liturgical life.
musicians before the Ark of Egyptian liturgies. side with grand hymns of glory
the Covenant in Jerusalem. Clues to the earlier collections and devotion sit the more somber Crying out to God
Thought to have founded a from which the Jewish Book of Psalms, often of individual or The causes of lament vary from
school or guild of temple Psalms was drawn can be found communal lamentation. In fact, betrayal to imprisonment and
singers and musicians, known in the superscriptions at the top laments constitute a major portion sickness. They are often on behalf
as the “sons of Asaph.” of some of the Psalms. There are of the Psalms—around 40 of the of a specific figure, who typically
the Psalms of Asaph, for example, total 150. They almost always plunges straight into his complaint.
which possibly emerged from a conclude in trust and praise, “How long, Lord?” is Psalm 13’s
tradition associated with Asaph, but in their initial forthrightness exasperated opening. “Will you ❯❯
son of Berechiah, appointed as a
temple singer under King David. Hebrew poetry Lord’s, and everything in it,
he Book of Psalms as we the days of my life, and I will dwell An illustration of King David Another group are the Songs the world, and all who live in
know it probably dates in the house of the Lord forever.” marks the initial at the beginning of Ascent, which may have been Almost a third of the Hebrew it.” The second line often
T from the 6th century bce, At other times, feelings are bleaker of Psalm 1. This beautifully detailed used by pilgrims to Jerusalem as Bible is poetry. The narrative repeats the meaning of the first,
after the Jews returned from the and more raw: “You have put me illuminated manuscript was made they climbed the Temple Mount. books are interspersed with to create a sense of balance or
in around 1450 by Leonardo Bellini.
Babylonian exile. It was effectively in the lowest pit, in the darkest Although King David is known poetic passages; large parts symmetry. The effect is also
a hymn book for Israel, used in the depths,” complains the writer of to have composed songs, the of the prophetic books are cumulative, with the second
liturgy of the Second Temple, Psalm 88. This broad emotional marked resemblance to hymns collection labeled Psalms of David in verse; and most or all of line amplifying the scope and
where Psalms would have been variance allows the book to cover used by other Near Eastern was almost certainly inspired by Proverbs, Lamentations, Job, resonance of the first. Another
sung to an accompaniment of a range of experiences relating peoples—for example, Psalm 104, him and events in his life rather and the Psalms are poetry. device in Hebrew poetry—one
lyres, harps, and cymbals. to religious life. which has parallels with the Great than actually written by him. Meter, as it is known in the that inevitably gets lost in the
The Psalms can be seen as the Hymn to the Egyptian sun god It is hard to confirm any exact Western tradition, does not translation—is the acrostic, in
human side of a dialogue between Origins and usage Aten. This is more likely to be dates for the Psalms, but scholars exist in Hebrew poetry, nor does which each line or group of lines
begins with a successive letter
Israel and its God. Often they are Like all hymn books, the Book of because certain types of hymns emphasize their link with early rhyme. Instead, its key building of the Hebrew alphabet. Nine
blocks are short lines in pairs,
brimming with positivity, as in the Psalms draws on earlier collections, were common across the various Temple worship before and after as, for example, in the opening psalms are organized in this
ending of Psalm 23: “Surely your many of them already hundreds Near Eastern religions than the exile, and traditional Jewish of Psalm 24: “The earth is the way, notably Psalm 119.
goodness and love will follow me all of years old. Some Psalms bear because one culture consciously festivals—especially those in the





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WISDOM AND PROPHETS 141

See also: David and Goliath 116–17 ■ The Nature of God 144–45 ■ Proverbs 148–51 ■ Song of Songs 152–53 ■
Parables of Jesus 214–15


fall before the harvest. It is likely
that at least some of these songs
and hymns were composed
specifically for festival use and
would have played a crucial part
Why are you downcast, in the ritual life of early Jews. I love you, O Lord,
O my soul? my strength. The Lord
Why so disturbed within me? Thematic groupings is my rock, my fortress
Put your hope in God, The 150 Psalms are divided into and my deliverer;
for I will yet praise him, five books—possibly to reflect my God is my rock,
my Savior and my God. the structure of the Pentateuch— in whom I take refuge.
Psalm 42:5 and each book concludes with a Psalm 18:1–2
doxology, a short formula of praise,
usually starting: “Praise be to the
Lord …” They contain a variety of
styles and themes. Many are about
royal events related to the reign of
King David—73 in total bear his
plagiarized hymns from another. name—while others are more they say much about the heartfelt
Many of the common Psalm forms prophetic in nature, or impart directness and honesty of Israel’s
were also used in Babylonian and an obvious moral lesson. Side by liturgical life.
Egyptian liturgies. side with grand hymns of glory
Clues to the earlier collections and devotion sit the more somber Crying out to God
from which the Jewish Book of Psalms, often of individual or The causes of lament vary from
Psalms was drawn can be found communal lamentation. In fact, betrayal to imprisonment and
in the superscriptions at the top laments constitute a major portion sickness. They are often on behalf
of some of the Psalms. There are of the Psalms—around 40 of the of a specific figure, who typically
the Psalms of Asaph, for example, total 150. They almost always plunges straight into his complaint.
which possibly emerged from a conclude in trust and praise, “How long, Lord?” is Psalm 13’s
tradition associated with Asaph, but in their initial forthrightness exasperated opening. “Will you ❯❯
son of Berechiah, appointed as a
temple singer under King David. Hebrew poetry Lord’s, and everything in it,
Another group are the Songs the world, and all who live in
of Ascent, which may have been Almost a third of the Hebrew it.” The second line often
used by pilgrims to Jerusalem as Bible is poetry. The narrative repeats the meaning of the first,
they climbed the Temple Mount. books are interspersed with to create a sense of balance or
Although King David is known poetic passages; large parts symmetry. The effect is also
to have composed songs, the of the prophetic books are cumulative, with the second
collection labeled Psalms of David in verse; and most or all of line amplifying the scope and
was almost certainly inspired by Proverbs, Lamentations, Job, resonance of the first. Another
him and events in his life rather and the Psalms are poetry. device in Hebrew poetry—one
than actually written by him. Meter, as it is known in the that inevitably gets lost in the
It is hard to confirm any exact Western tradition, does not translation—is the acrostic, in
dates for the Psalms, but scholars exist in Hebrew poetry, nor does which each line or group of lines
begins with a successive letter
emphasize their link with early rhyme. Instead, its key building of the Hebrew alphabet. Nine
blocks are short lines in pairs,
Temple worship before and after as, for example, in the opening psalms are organized in this
the exile, and traditional Jewish of Psalm 24: “The earth is the way, notably Psalm 119.
festivals—especially those in the





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142 THE PSALMS WISDOM AND PROPHETS 143


forget me for ever? How long will may have been part of a dialogue
you hide your face from me?” In this with a priest or temple official Psalms and their authors
case the psalmist’s troubles stem who, speaking in God’s name, then Psalms 1, 2, 10, 33, 43, 66, 67, 71, 91–100, 102,
from the activities of an enemy. pronounced an oracle telling him to 104–07, 111–18, 119, 120, 121, 123, 125, 126, Unknown
Having stated the complaint, the go in peace, assured that God had 128–30, 132, 134–37, 146–50
psalmist then makes a petition: heard his prayer. Whatever the By the rivers of Babylon
“Look on me and answer, Lord my reason, the writer concludes that we sat and wept Psalms 3–9, 11–32, 34–41, 51–65, 68–70, 86, 101, David
God. Give light to my eyes”—the God “has been good to me.” when we remembered Zion. 103, 108–10, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138–45
light of restored vitality and joy. There on the poplars
To add persuasive power to the Historical laments we hung our harps, Psalms 42, 44–49, 84–85, 87 Sons of Korah
petition, he gives reasons for God Other Psalms are of communal for there our captors
to act: if God fails to help him, lament, many arising out of the asked us for songs. Psalms 50, 73–83 Asaph
his enemies will say they have humiliation of defeat. For the final Psalm 137:1–3
overcome the psalmist, which may editors of the Psalms, no defeat was Psalms 72, 127 Solomon A shepherd and
reflect badly on his God. Having more recent or searing than the his flock
now unburdened himself, the destruction of Jerusalem and its Psalm 88 Sons of Korah
writer of Psalm 13, as in many of temple by the Babylonians in and Heman The image of a leader as a
shepherd goes back to the
the other lament Psalms, switches 587 bce. Psalm 79, one of a small 3rd millennium bce when
somewhat abruptly to praise, number of Psalms emerging from Psalm 89 Ethan the Ezrahite the kings of Sumer in
remarking, “But I trust in your that experience, opens with a as food for the birds of the sky, Mesopotamia described
unfailing love; my heart rejoices description of the disaster: “O God, the flesh of your own people for the Psalm 90 Moses themselves as shepherds
in your salvation.” the nations have invaded your animals of the wild.” of their people. In societies
One possible reason for this inheritance; they have defiled your It continues with a mingling of where herders were part
sudden change of tone may lie in holy Temple, they have reduced praise, repentance, and anguished the trouble the psalmist was you nations; extol him, all you of everyday life, it was an
the context of temple worship. The Jerusalem to rubble. They have left petitions for salvation, justice, even suffering, how he made a lament peoples,” the shortest psalm of all, obvious comparison to make,
psalmist’s complaint and petition the dead bodies of your servants vengeance: “Pay back into the laps to God, and how God wonderfully Psalm 117, commands: “For great and other nations followed
of our neighbors seven times the intervened. “I will exalt you, Lord,” is His love toward us, and the this example.
contempt they have hurled at you, begins Psalm 30, “for you lifted me faithfulness of the Lord endures For the Israelites, David
Lord.” Elsewhere, the desire for out the depths and did not let my forever.” In other cases, the opening was the archetypal shepherd-
revenge burns most appallingly in enemies gloat over me.” Despite summons leads to a list of God’s king, who literally started life
another psalm of the exile, Psalm the reference to his enemies, the interventions on Israel’s behalf. as a shepherd. But above him
was the one who fulfilled
137. Its conclusion is a howl of psalmist’s distress seems to have Perhaps the most beautiful that role supremely: God (as
bloodthirsty rage: “Daughter been a sickness that brought him Psalms are the songs of creation, stated in Psalm 23). In the
Babylon, doomed to destruction, close to death. He cried to God for such as Psalm 104, which elicit 6th century bce, during the
happy is the one who repays you help, and God healed him, sparing praise by extolling the creator-God. Babylonian Exile, the prophet
for what you have done to us. him “from going down into the pit.” He is the God who “makes the Ezekiel used the imagery of a
Happy is the one who seizes your The conclusion here is a shout clouds His chariot and rides on the shepherd in a furious tirade
infants and dashes them against of praise and thanksgiving: “You wings of the wind.” Not only does against Israel’s leadership:
the rocks.” turned my wailing into dancing; creation reflect His splendor, but “Woe to the shepherds of
you removed my sackcloth and also His provision for humankind: Israel who only take care of
Joyous Psalms clothed me with joy, that my “He makes grass grow for the cattle, themselves! … you do not
Psalms written in the light of heart may sing your praises and plants for people to cultivate— take care of the flock.” Jesus
an answered prayer are usually and not be silent.” bringing forth food from the earth.” continued the tradition,
more jubilant. Typically, they What is remarkable about the describing the crowds who
tell or suggest the whole story: Songs of praise Psalms is the energy and feeling followed Him as “like sheep
without a shepherd,” and later
Hymns of collective praise are behind the words. Whether they referring to himself as a “good
among the most majestic of the are praising or petitioning God, they
Hymns are sung at the Sunday Psalms. They tend to have the each show a very human side of the shepherd [who] lays down His
celebration at the Celestial Church of life for the sheep.” The image
Christ, Missessinto, in Benin, Africa. simplest structures: a summons Bible, where people are unafraid lives on to this day in the word
Psalms have been used in devotional to praise God, followed by reasons to confess their multifaceted “pastor,” Latin for “shepherd.”
worship since the early Church. for that praise. “Praise the Lord, all emotions to a benevolent Lord. ■





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WISDOM AND PROPHETS 143


Psalms and their authors

Psalms 1, 2, 10, 33, 43, 66, 67, 71, 91–100, 102,
104–07, 111–18, 119, 120, 121, 123, 125, 126, Unknown
128–30, 132, 134–37, 146–50

Psalms 3–9, 11–32, 34–41, 51–65, 68–70, 86, 101, David
103, 108–10, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138–45
Psalms 42, 44–49, 84–85, 87 Sons of Korah

Psalms 50, 73–83 Asaph

Psalms 72, 127 Solomon A shepherd and
his flock
Sons of Korah
Psalm 88 The image of a leader as a
and Heman
shepherd goes back to the
3rd millennium bce when
Psalm 89 Ethan the Ezrahite
the kings of Sumer in
Mesopotamia described
Psalm 90 Moses
themselves as shepherds
of their people. In societies
where herders were part
the trouble the psalmist was you nations; extol him, all you of everyday life, it was an
suffering, how he made a lament peoples,” the shortest psalm of all, obvious comparison to make,
to God, and how God wonderfully Psalm 117, commands: “For great and other nations followed
intervened. “I will exalt you, Lord,” is His love toward us, and the this example.
begins Psalm 30, “for you lifted me faithfulness of the Lord endures For the Israelites, David
out the depths and did not let my forever.” In other cases, the opening was the archetypal shepherd-
enemies gloat over me.” Despite summons leads to a list of God’s king, who literally started life
the reference to his enemies, the interventions on Israel’s behalf. as a shepherd. But above him
was the one who fulfilled
psalmist’s distress seems to have Perhaps the most beautiful that role supremely: God (as
been a sickness that brought him Psalms are the songs of creation, stated in Psalm 23). In the
close to death. He cried to God for such as Psalm 104, which elicit 6th century bce, during the
help, and God healed him, sparing praise by extolling the creator-God. Babylonian Exile, the prophet
him “from going down into the pit.” He is the God who “makes the Ezekiel used the imagery of a
The conclusion here is a shout clouds His chariot and rides on the shepherd in a furious tirade
of praise and thanksgiving: “You wings of the wind.” Not only does against Israel’s leadership:
turned my wailing into dancing; creation reflect His splendor, but “Woe to the shepherds of
you removed my sackcloth and also His provision for humankind: Israel who only take care of
clothed me with joy, that my “He makes grass grow for the cattle, themselves! … you do not
heart may sing your praises and plants for people to cultivate— take care of the flock.” Jesus
and not be silent.” bringing forth food from the earth.” continued the tradition,
What is remarkable about the describing the crowds who
Songs of praise Psalms is the energy and feeling followed Him as “like sheep
without a shepherd,” and later
Hymns of collective praise are behind the words. Whether they referring to himself as a “good
among the most majestic of the are praising or petitioning God, they shepherd [who] lays down His
Psalms. They tend to have the each show a very human side of the life for the sheep.” The image
simplest structures: a summons Bible, where people are unafraid lives on to this day in the word
to praise God, followed by reasons to confess their multifaceted “pastor,” Latin for “shepherd.”
for that praise. “Praise the Lord, all emotions to a benevolent Lord. ■





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144 WISDOM AND PROPHETS 145

See also: Only One God 90–91 ■ The Psalms 138–43 ■ The Lord’s Prayer 212–13 An emotional God
FROM EVERLASTING The biblical writers are not

afraid to give God certain
TO EVERLASTING The names and nature of God human attributes, including
emotions. The first chapter
of Genesis shows God feeling
The Jewish tradition has many names for God,
YOU ARE GOD Judaism which recognize different attributes: from shaddai satisfaction: “God saw all that
He had made, and it was very
(judge) to kano (jealous) to tzevaot (one who
battles the wicked).
good.” A few chapters later,
PSALM 90:2, THE NATURE OF GOD this joy turned to regret and
grief. Faced with human
Christianity The New Testament places a greater emphasis corruption before the Flood,
on calling God “Father,” and Christians see God
the “Lord was grieved that He
as having this intimate, paternal role in their lives.
had made man … His heart
was filled with pain.”
Expressions of God’s love
Muslims use the name Allah, which simply means are as frequent in the Bible as
Islam “the one God.” The belief that there is no other
to everlasting you are God.” The place” (Psalm 90:1). The prophet God but God (“la ilaha ilallah”) is the central tenet his anger: the prophet Amos
IN BRIEF sentiment behind the phrase Isaiah combines these two of the Islamic faith. describes a fiery display of
“everlasting to everlasting” is concepts in an exclamation of God’s revulsion at rituals
PASSAGE repeated in many of the names wonder: “Holy, holy, holy is the performed without holiness of
Psalm 90 heart. “I despise your religious
given to God by his followers. He Lord Almighty; the whole earth Israelites. The prayer emphasizes Unavoidably, the relationship brings feasts; I cannot stand your
THEME is “Alpha and Omega,” the first and is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3). the greatness of His anger: “If only conflict. God does not hesitate to assemblies.” However, He is
God’s nature last letters of the Greek alphabet. we knew the power of your anger! punish His chosen people when shown to be open to changing
He is kadosh, or holy, in Hebrew, Wrathful God Your wrath is as great as the fear they stray from obedience. Still, as His mind when His heart is
SETTING meaning transcendent, beyond Psalm 90 also teaches us more that is your due” (Psalm 90:11). Psalm 90 attests, God is capable appealed to: “My heart is
The universe All of which and above all normal experience. about the wrathful nature of God, The author describes the people as of compassion: “Satisfy us … with changed within me,” God tells
is created by God. Yet He is not cut off from as experienced by the ancient fearing God’s wrath above all else: your unfailing love, that we may the prophet Hosea; “all my
humanity in some other realm. “We are consumed by your anger sing for joy” (90:14). Although the compassion is aroused. I will
KEY FIGURES His kavod, glory, dwells within his and terrified by your indignation” relationship between God and not carry out my fierce anger.”
Moses God’s servant, to creation, pervading and sustaining God’s glory dwells in the physical (Psalm 90:7). His people sometimes breaks
whom Psalm 90 is attributed. realm, according to Isaiah. As the
it—which is perhaps why, in creator of the vast and beautiful world down, God loves His people, and
Psalm 90, the author tells God: that His people inhabit, Earth itself Collaborative nature is always working to repair it. ■
“Lord, you have been our dwelling becomes a symbol of His might. Relationships are at the heart of
God’s being. Even in the divine
nlike any other ancient realm, He appears to enjoy some
Near Eastern religion, the kind of companionship. There is
U Israelite one had no family a plural, for example, in the first
tree of the divine or account of how creation account: “Let us make
God came into being. The first man in our image” (Genesis 2:26– The Lord is near to all who
verse of the Bible simply assumes 28). From humans, God appears to call on Him, to all who call
God as creator of the world, a seek collaboration, dialogue, and on Him in truth. He fulfills
source of being beyond whom there even friendship. His actions are the desires of those who fear
is no other: “In the beginning God responses to people’s behavior Him; He hears their cry
created the heavens and the earth.” or appeals. “I have heard them and saves them.
Psalm 90—which the Bible crying out,” he tells Moses at the Psalm 145:18–19
attributes to “Moses the man burning bush, “so I have come In Psalm 90, Moses, depicted here
of God”—picks up this concept: down to rescue them.” God chooses in a sculpture by Michelangelo in
“Before the mountains were born a human, Moses, to carry out the Rome’s San Pietro in Vicoli basilica,
describes God’s compassion and
or you brought forth the earth rescue of his people, allowing God anger, as well as his omnipotence.
and the world, from everlasting to work with and through him.





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WISDOM AND PROPHETS 145

See also: Only One God 90–91 ■ The Psalms 138–43 ■ The Lord’s Prayer 212–13 An emotional God

The biblical writers are not
afraid to give God certain
The names and nature of God human attributes, including
emotions. The first chapter
The Jewish tradition has many names for God, of Genesis shows God feeling
Judaism which recognize different attributes: from shaddai satisfaction: “God saw all that
He had made, and it was very
(judge) to kano (jealous) to tzevaot (one who
battles the wicked). good.” A few chapters later,
this joy turned to regret and
grief. Faced with human
The New Testament places a greater emphasis corruption before the Flood,
Christianity on calling God “Father,” and Christians see God the “Lord was grieved that He
as having this intimate, paternal role in their lives.
had made man … His heart
was filled with pain.”
Expressions of God’s love
Muslims use the name Allah, which simply means are as frequent in the Bible as
Islam “the one God.” The belief that there is no other his anger: the prophet Amos
God but God (“la ilaha ilallah”) is the central tenet
of the Islamic faith. describes a fiery display of
God’s revulsion at rituals
performed without holiness of
heart. “I despise your religious
Israelites. The prayer emphasizes Unavoidably, the relationship brings feasts; I cannot stand your
the greatness of His anger: “If only conflict. God does not hesitate to assemblies.” However, He is
we knew the power of your anger! punish His chosen people when shown to be open to changing
Your wrath is as great as the fear they stray from obedience. Still, as His mind when His heart is
that is your due” (Psalm 90:11). Psalm 90 attests, God is capable appealed to: “My heart is
The author describes the people as of compassion: “Satisfy us … with changed within me,” God tells
fearing God’s wrath above all else: your unfailing love, that we may the prophet Hosea; “all my
“We are consumed by your anger sing for joy” (90:14). Although the compassion is aroused. I will
and terrified by your indignation” relationship between God and not carry out my fierce anger.”
(Psalm 90:7). His people sometimes breaks
down, God loves His people, and
Collaborative nature is always working to repair it. ■
Relationships are at the heart of
God’s being. Even in the divine
realm, He appears to enjoy some
kind of companionship. There is
a plural, for example, in the first
creation account: “Let us make
man in our image” (Genesis 2:26– The Lord is near to all who
28). From humans, God appears to call on Him, to all who call
seek collaboration, dialogue, and on Him in truth. He fulfills
even friendship. His actions are the desires of those who fear
responses to people’s behavior Him; He hears their cry
or appeals. “I have heard them and saves them.
crying out,” he tells Moses at the Psalm 145:18–19
burning bush, “so I have come In Psalm 90, Moses, depicted here
down to rescue them.” God chooses in a sculpture by Michelangelo in
a human, Moses, to carry out the Rome’s San Pietro in Vicoli basilica,
describes God’s compassion and
rescue of his people, allowing God anger, as well as his omnipotence.
to work with and through him.





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146 WISDOM AND PROPHETS 147

See also: The Temptations of Christ 198–99 ■ The Way of Love 296–97
HAVE YOU CONSIDERED


MY SERVANT JOB? Characteristics of Satan in
the Old Testament
THERE IS NO ONE Questioner Tester


ON EARTH LIKE HIM

JOB 2:3, THE SUFFERING OF JOB

Satan
The Book of Job

There are very few clues to
the author of the Book of
Not Job, or to the time of its
he Book of Job is one of He is also blessed with numerous
IN BRIEF the most engaging books children, livestock, and servants. Tempter necessarily composition, but scholars
T of the Bible, as it deals in However, his entire life soon falls “evil” place Job as living sometime
PASSAGE an accessible and dramatic way, apart. One day, when God is The Satan in the Book of Job is between 2000 and 1000 bce.
Job 1–42 not the devil who appears in the It is likely that the book was
using poetry and prose, with one of holding court in heaven, he is written by an Israelite, due to
THEME the great philosophical challenges attended by Satan, “the adversary.” New Testament. Here “Satan” the use of the term “Yahweh”
refers to an adversary or an opposer.
The nature of suffering of the Bible—if God is ethical, why They discuss Job, whom God for God. Jewish tradition
do bad things happen to good describes as uniquely faithful. attributes the book to Moses.
SETTING people? Attempts to answer this Satan disagrees, contending that acknowledges God in his misery. challenges God to a fair trial. God Whoever the author might
c. 2000–1000 bce Southern question are called “theodicy.” Job is only loyal because God The adversary does not easily give appears to him and asks a series be, it seems that the purpose
Edom or northern Arabia. Job is a shining example of protects him and gives him up on his bet. This time, he of questions, but Job realizes that of Job’s book is not to give a
God’s perfect servant. He is everything he wants. He makes a challenges God to harm Job in his human brain is no match for true historical account of the
KEY FIGURES “blameless and upright; he feared bet with God that if he is permitted person. God duly afflicts Job with God’s wisdom and repents. In light man’s life. Instead of writing
Job A devoted servant of God, God and shunned evil” (Job 1:1). to take away all of Job’s possessions, sores from head to toe. The pain of Job’s unbreakable faith, God from a purely theological
who is prosperous, fortunate, Job will lose faith and curse God. is great, and Job scrapes his skin restores everything that Job had perspective, the author takes
and righteous, yet faces This bet serves to illustrate the with broken pottery and sits in a possessed, and more, blessing “the a closer, sympathetic approach
terrible suffering at the hands wider theme of the Book of Job: that pile of ashes, possibly in grief or to latter part of Job’s life more than to Job’s story, and therefore
of both Satan and God. goodness is hollow and worthless signal his repentance. Appalled by the former part” (42:12). deals with the question of
why humans suffer on a
Bildad, Eliphaz, and Zophar if it is only in search of reward. his suffering, Job’s wife urges him personal level.
Three of Job’s friends, who to curse God and die. However, still The mysteries of life When judged against the
come to comfort and debate Tests of faith Job will not speak ill of the Lord. While the Bible often offers clear- conventional criteria of what
with him. A series of disasters then befall Three of Job’s friends, Eliphaz, cut solutions to vexing questions, it means to be faithful, Job
Job. He first discovers that his oxen Zophar, and Bildad, arrive to Job presents a challenging debate is one of the finest human
Satan An adversary of God and donkeys have all been taken. comfort Job. The four companions on the purpose of suffering. The beings depicted in the Bible—
and His angels. He questions Next, all his sheep perish in a discuss the situation, and conclude book serves to illustrate that perhaps purposefully and
Job’s constancy and offers God fire. Third, his camels are stolen that Job must have sinned greatly suffering is a natural component hyperbolically good as
a bet on his faithfulness. during an army raid. By this time, to have incurred God’s wrath to of human life, and that it is how he continues to prevail in
all his servants but one have such a degree. The narrative then the righteous respond to that his faith. The almost
perished. Finally, Job learns that becomes more philosophical, suffering that defines the strength superhuman nature of his
a house has collapsed on all ten challenging the long-standing of their faith. Ultimately, Job resolve, with his exemplary
Satan torments Job in this Gothic of his children and they have also wisdom of the time that prosperity accepts that the mysteries of the righteousness and strong
stained-glass window from the former convictions, has even given
Dominican Church of Strasbourg. Job’s died. Job is distraught, but refuses was an indication of piety and divine, and by extension the rise to the modern idiom of
skin is shown covered in the painful to curse God. In fact, such is the suffering a punishment for sin. Job reasoning behind suffering, are “having the patience of Job.”
sores he endures as part of his trials. extent of his faith that he still insists that he has not sinned and beyond human comprehension. ■





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WISDOM AND PROPHETS 147

See also: The Temptations of Christ 198–99 ■ The Way of Love 296–97



Characteristics of Satan in
the Old Testament



Questioner Tester





Satan
The Book of Job

There are very few clues to
the author of the Book of
Not Job, or to the time of its
Tempter necessarily composition, but scholars
“evil” place Job as living sometime
between 2000 and 1000 bce.
The Satan in the Book of Job is It is likely that the book was
not the devil who appears in the
New Testament. Here “Satan” written by an Israelite, due to
refers to an adversary or an opposer. the use of the term “Yahweh”
for God. Jewish tradition
attributes the book to Moses.
acknowledges God in his misery. challenges God to a fair trial. God Whoever the author might
The adversary does not easily give appears to him and asks a series be, it seems that the purpose
up on his bet. This time, he of questions, but Job realizes that of Job’s book is not to give a
challenges God to harm Job in his human brain is no match for true historical account of the
person. God duly afflicts Job with God’s wisdom and repents. In light man’s life. Instead of writing
sores from head to toe. The pain of Job’s unbreakable faith, God from a purely theological
is great, and Job scrapes his skin restores everything that Job had perspective, the author takes
with broken pottery and sits in a possessed, and more, blessing “the a closer, sympathetic approach
to Job’s story, and therefore
pile of ashes, possibly in grief or to latter part of Job’s life more than deals with the question of
signal his repentance. Appalled by the former part” (42:12). why humans suffer on a
his suffering, Job’s wife urges him personal level.
to curse God and die. However, still The mysteries of life When judged against the
Job will not speak ill of the Lord. While the Bible often offers clear- conventional criteria of what
Three of Job’s friends, Eliphaz, cut solutions to vexing questions, it means to be faithful, Job
Zophar, and Bildad, arrive to Job presents a challenging debate is one of the finest human
comfort Job. The four companions on the purpose of suffering. The beings depicted in the Bible—
discuss the situation, and conclude book serves to illustrate that perhaps purposefully and
that Job must have sinned greatly suffering is a natural component hyperbolically good as
to have incurred God’s wrath to of human life, and that it is how he continues to prevail in
such a degree. The narrative then the righteous respond to that his faith. The almost
becomes more philosophical, suffering that defines the strength superhuman nature of his
challenging the long-standing of their faith. Ultimately, Job resolve, with his exemplary
righteousness and strong
wisdom of the time that prosperity accepts that the mysteries of the convictions, has even given
was an indication of piety and divine, and by extension the rise to the modern idiom of
suffering a punishment for sin. Job reasoning behind suffering, are “having the patience of Job.”
insists that he has not sinned and beyond human comprehension. ■





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148 IN BRIEF See also: The Ten Commandments 78–83 ■ The Wisdom of Solomon 120–23 ■ Sermon on the Mount 204–09 ■ 149
WISDOM AND PROPHETS
BLESSED PASSAGE The Golden Rule 210–11 ■ Parables of Jesus 214–15


Proverbs
example, says: “Go to the ant, you
sluggard; consider its ways and be
THEME
IS THE ONE Blessings for the faithful wise!” (Proverbs 6:6). Many of the
book’s maxims date back millennia,
SETTING
and a number come from outside
c. 700–500 bce King
the Israelite tradition—some, for
Hezekiah’s palace and a place
example, are borrowed from
WHO TRUSTS of instruction post-Exile. Egyptian wisdom literature.
KEY FIGURES
Historical collection
Solomon A king of legendary
Authorship of much of the book of
wisdom who is said to have
Proverbs is attributed to King
IN THE LORD uttered 3,000 proverbs. The Solomon, although this is unlikely.
bulk of the book of Proverbs
It is more probable that the Proverbs
is attributed to him.
were gathered into collections at
various times in Israelite history
Hezekiah King of Judah
PROVERBS 16:20, PROVERBS from 715–698 bce. According and then copied at the Judean
court of King Hezekiah in the late
to Proverbs 25:1, the earliest
maxims, contained in chapters 8th century bce. In view of the
customs mentioned and the pure
25–29, were transcribed at his monotheism espoused by the
court in Jerusalem.
text, the book as it appears today
almost certainly dates from the
late 6th century or 5th century bce, the post-Exile period, although it is Idleness is one of many vices that the
after the Judeans had returned labeled “The Proverbs of Solomon.” proverbs warn against. In Proverb 6,
from exile in Babylon. Next comes a long section (10:1– sluggards are advised to follow the
The scribes organized Proverbs 22:16) of short, mostly two-line productive ways of the ant.
into five sections with four short proverbs, attributed to Solomon,
appendices at the end. The first and then the section entitled “the This is followed by another short
he book of Proverbs is a section or prologue (chapters 1–9) sayings of the wise” (22:17–24:22), section on the same theme (24:23–
book of advice, or wisdom most obviously bears the imprint of which shows Egyptian influence. 34), and then another longer section
T literature, which seeks to (chapters 25–29) attributed to
instill “knowledge and discretion” Wisdom literature written down around 1000 bce Solomon. The appendices make
(1:4) in young men about to forge but probably older than that— up the last two chapters and
their ways in the world. The aim is Proverbs, along with the Books also follows a similar format. conclude with a famous poem
that such men will not only live a of Job and Ecclesiastes, belongs The section in Proverbs entitled extolling the virtues of “The Wife
fulfilling and prosperous life, but to a well-established genre of “sayings of the wise” is clearly of Noble Character” (see p. 151).
also a moral one. While the book of the ancient Near East: wisdom modeled on Amenemopet’s
Proverbs makes it clear from the writing. Consisting of maxims maxims and includes some that Twin strands
outset that the “fear of the Lord is and tales that reflect upon life are almost identical. Similarities Wisdom in Proverbs is delivered
the beginning of knowledge” (1:7), wisely lived, this body of also exist with a Mesopotamian through two voices. One is that of
much of the book’s focus is not literature has deep roots. One work: the Story of Ahikar. The an elder—a parent, teacher, or
directly on God, but on the choices of the oldest known works is the tale of a chief counselor at the sage—giving instruction to a
and dilemmas faced in daily living. Maxims of Ptahhotep, from the Assyrian court, it is peppered younger person. The book’s very
The pragmatic advice comes in end of the 3rd millennium bce, with wise sayings. The sayings first exhortation is in this style:
include an earlier version of the
the form of short admonishments which details the instructions Bible’s famous “spare the rod, “Listen, my son, to your father’s
of a vizier to his son. The
and pithy encouragements. A Instruction of Amenemopet— spoil the child” proverb. instruction and do not forsake your
warning against laziness, for mother’s teaching” (1:8). The ❯❯





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