
Ancient Israel and Judah
Why History and Cultural Context Matter for Reading the Hebrew Bible
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
Ancient Israel and Judah
Why History and Cultural Context Matter for Reading the Hebrew Bible
About this book
Step into the world of the Hebrew Bible and discover how the contexts of the people who lived in it illuminate and deepen our understanding of the Scriptures.
In Ancient Israel and Judah, Beth Tanner takes readers on a compelling journey through the historical and cultural landscapes of ancient Israel and Judah, bringing the Hebrew Bible to life in an approachable manner yet to be achieved.
An essential guide for anyone new to biblical study, this book bridges the divide between traditional religious interpretations and academic study, empowering readers to grasp the Bible's theological themes in their full historical richness. From the origins of the Genesis narratives to the dramatic period of the Maccabees, Tanner skillfully distills centuries of history and complex concepts into an accessible and engaging narrative with relatable insights, offering clarity and context without overwhelming detail.
Through an introduction to historical criticism and literary paradigms, readers learn to navigate the Bible's poetic verses, sagas, and narratives with fresh eyes. Addressing modern misconceptions about biblical history, Tanner reveals how understanding the ancient world enhances both critical and faith-based readings of Scripture. With newfound insight, readers of this book will:
• learn why history and context are essential to any interpretation; how historical events are part of the Bible but why history is not its primary purpose, thus alleviating perceived conflicts within the text;
• develop an understanding of the story of the Israelites within the history of the ancient world as well as the other groups the people of the Bible encountered;
• read the biblical texts with knowledge about the life and worship practices of the people for whom the biblical texts were intended.
Moreover, the book's unique inclusion of the often-overlooked late historical period (1000–33 BCE) sets the stage for the New Testament, offering vital context for students of all levels. Complete with charts, maps, and a glossary, Ancient Israel and Judah is more than a history book—it's a road map to deeper biblical understanding.
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Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Endorsement
- Half Title
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- List of Maps, Figures, and Charts
- Preface
- Acknowledgments
- Abbreviations
- 1. Introduction to the Academic Study of the Bible
- 2. Why Study the Historical Context of the Hebrew Bible?
- 3. Israel and Judah in Context
- 4. Life in the Afro-Asiatic Region
- 5. “In the Beginning”: Genesis and Exodus
- 6. The Founding of a People in Canaan (1200–1000 BCE)
- 7. The Era of Early Monarchy (1000–927 BCE)
- 8. Two-Kingdom Rule: A Time of Expansion (927–840 BCE)
- 9. Israel Tumbles toward Destruction (840–722 BCE)
- 10. Judah under Assyrian Domination (722–639 BCE)
- 11. Battle for Control of the Afro- Asiatic Region (639–539 BCE)
- 12. The Persian Empire (539–330 BCE)
- 13. The Early Hellenistic Period (330–168 BCE)
- 14. The Maccabean Revolt and the Hasmonean Dynasty (168–63 BCE)
- 15. How the Hebrew Bible Became a Book
- Glossary of Terms
- Index of Scripture and Other Ancient Sources
- Index of Subjects