Hebrew Scriptures Exam Study Guide

Flashcards based on lecture notes covering key concepts in Hebrew Scriptures for exam review.

What covenant did God make with Noah after the flood, and what sign did He give as a sign of this promise?

God promised never to destroy the earth by flood again; the sign of the covenant was the rainbow.

Why did God confuse the language of the people building the Tower of Babel?

Because humans were trying to make a name for themselves and build a tower to heaven, showing pride and disobedience.

What are the three world religions that consider Abraham a patriarch?

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

About how many years ago did the stories of the patriarchs and matriarchs take place?

About 4000 years ago (2000 to 1700 BC).

What does God promise Abram when He calls him?

God promises to show Abram a new land and make him the father of a great nation.

What land does God lead Abram to?

Canaan.

To what natural occurrence does God compare the number of Abram's offspring?

Stars in the sky.

What plan does Sarai create after she fails to conceive?

Sarai's plan is for Abram and Hagar to have a child so they have an heir.

How do Sarai and Abram view Hagar?

They view her as a slave and servant and do not treat her with much respect.

What is a covenant?

A covenant is a solemn promise or agreement.

What is the ritual physical sign of the covenant for males in Judaism?

Circumcision.

What is another indicator of a covenant relationship between God and Abram/Sarai?

Name changes: Abram to Abraham and Sarai to Sarah.

What are the names of Abraham's sons and their mothers?

Ishmael - Hagar, Isaac - Sarah.

What does Hagar call God when she speaks to the LORD's angel in the desert?

'El-Roi,' which means God who sees me.

What do we learn about God through Hagar's encounter in the desert?

God cares for those who are suffering and marginalized and is personal, seeing each of us.

What do we learn about the people God works through as evidenced in Abraham and Sarah's story?

God works through imperfect people.

What is the theological point of the story of Abraham's sacrifice?

It shows that God provides and to place trust in God's plan and timing. Fear of the Lord: Awe and reverence

What does 'Fear of the Lord' mean?

Reverence and awe for God.

Why do some individuals in biblical stories have very great ages?

It signifies that the individual is wise and blessed.

What name does Jacob receive in the desert and what does it mean?

Jacob is named Israel, meaning 'one who has contended with divine and human beings.'

Who descends from Jacob's sons?

The Israelites (the twelve tribes of Israel) descend from Jacob's sons. Rachel- Joseph & Benjamin