Ancient historyLesson 4 of 4 in the course The Near East

Hebrew History: Origins, Kingdoms, Exile, and Religious Development

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces the Hebrews and considers how historians study their early history. It matters because the Hebrew Bible is both a sacred text and an important historical source, but historians evaluate its claims alongside archaeology and other evidence.

The Hebrews were a Semitic-speaking people of Canaan whose religious tradition became Judaism. Their history is preserved in writings known in Jewish tradition as the Tanakh or Hebrew Bible, and in Christian tradition as the Old Testament. These writings describe origins, leaders, kings, prophets, laws, and religious beliefs. They also influenced the later development of Christianity and Islam.

All flashcards

Hebrews
A Semitic-speaking people of Canaan whose religious tradition developed into Judaism.
Tanakh
The name used in Jewish tradition for the Hebrew Bible.
Historical evaluation of biblical texts
Historians compare textual claims with archaeology, inscriptions, and other records to assess what can be established about the past.
United monarchy
The biblical account of Israel as one kingdom under Saul, David, and Solomon.
Babylonian exile
The period when Babylonian forces deported many Judeans from Judah, following the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE.

Quiz questions

  1. What does the biblical term “Exodus” refer to?Answer: The Hebrews’ departure from Egypt and journey toward Canaan
  2. What does the Tel Dan stele provide evidence for?Answer: A dynasty or kingdom associated with David
  3. What was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel after the monarchy divided?Answer: Samaria
  4. What did Cyrus the Great permit after conquering Babylonia?Answer: Judeans could return to Judah and begin rebuilding
  5. Which practice was associated with the festival of Sukkot?Answer: Erecting temporary shelters during a harvest festival

Based on World History Volume 1, to 1500 by Ann Kordas, Ryan J. Lynch, Brooke Nelson, Julie Tatlock (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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