Early History of the Israelites and Key Figures

This set of flashcards covers the early history of the Israelites, their key figures, and significant events from the lecture notes.

Where did the Jewish people originally live?

Mesopotamia

In what year did the Jewish people move to Canaan?

1950 BCE

What is the Hebrew bible known as?

Tanakh

What are the two collections of texts that are part of the Tanakh?

Prophets and Writings

What are the teachings of the Torah?

Foundational teachings for Judaism

Name a leader of the ancient Israelites.

Moses, King David, King Solomon, Abraham

What is the Torah considered to be for historians?

An original source for information about ancient Jews.

What significant event happened in 930 BCE regarding the Kingdom of Israel?

The Kingdom was divided.

Who led the Israelites out of Egypt?

Moses.

How long did Jews wander in the wilderness?

40 years.

What forced many Israelites into Egypt in 1800 BCE?

A famine.

Who is referred to as the Father of the Jews?

Abraham.

In what year was the Kingdom of Israel established?

1000 BCE.

What major religious concept did Abraham introduce?

Monotheism (belief in one G-d).

What was Abraham's original name?

Abram.

Where was Abraham born?

Ur, Mesopotamia.

What covenant did Abraham make with G-d?

To protect and love his descendants.

What was the name of Abraham's wife?

Sarai (later named Sarah).

At what ages did G-d give Abraham and Sarah a son?

At 90 (Sarah) and 100 (Abraham).

What was the name of Abraham's son?

Isaac.

Who is considered the greatest leader of the Israelites?

Moses.

What foundational teachings were given to Moses by G-d?

The 10 commandments.

Where did Moses receive the 10 commandments?

Mount Sinai.

What did Moses ask Pharaoh to do?

Let my people go.

What did G-d unleash upon Egypt when Pharaoh refused Moses?

10 plagues.

What significant miracle did Moses perform at the Sea of Reeds?

Parting the sea.

What is the significance of the Ark of the Covenant?

It held the 10 commandments.

Who established Jerusalem as the holy city for Israel?

King David.

What did King David do before becoming king?

Defeated Goliath.

What cultural contributions did King David make?

He was a poet and musician.

Who succeeded King David as king of Israel?

King Solomon.

What important structure did King Solomon build?

The First Temple in Jerusalem.

What was the purpose of the First Temple?

To house the Ark of the Covenant.

What did King Solomon do to strengthen Israel?

Made treaties with neighboring kingdoms and developed industries.

What is the importance of Jerusalem and its temple to Jews?

Symbols of their faith in G-d.

How did King Solomon contribute to the economy of Israel?

By developing industries such as copper mining.

What are the 10 commandments?

Laws and teachings given by G-d to Moses.

What is the covenant that G-d made with Abraham about his descendants?

To make Abraham the father of a great nation.

What did the Israelites do once they reached Canaan after wandering?

They settled in the land.

What was a major consequence of King David's reign?

The establishment of Jerusalem as the capital city.