Exam 2: Monarchy

Who was the first king of the United Monarchy of Israel?

Saul, who reigned from 1020 to 1000 BCE.

What actions led to Saul's rejection by God?

Saul's improper sacrifice and sparing of the Amalekites.

What significant military action did David accomplish during his reign?

David united the kingdom and established Jerusalem as the capital.

What were some of David's public accomplishments?

Uniting the kingdom, defeating armies, and beginning worship in Jerusalem.

What were some of David's private failures?

Adultery with Bathsheba, failure to discipline his children, and temporary dethronement by Absalom.

What is the significance of David and Bathsheba's story?

It raises questions about power dynamics and consent, focusing on David's actions.

Who succeeded David as king of Israel?

Solomon, who reigned from 961 to 922 BCE.

What were Solomon's notable achievements?

Economic success, renowned wisdom, and overseeing the building of the temple in Jerusalem.

What was a major failure during Solomon's reign?

Worshiping other gods and instituting oppressive labor practices.

What led to the division of the monarchy in Israel?

Rehoboam's harsh response to the northern tribes seeking relief from oppression.

Who was the first king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel?

Jeroboam, who built temples with golden calves in Bethel and Dan.

What was the fate of the Northern Kingdom of Israel?

It fell to the Assyrian Empire in 722/721 BCE due to unfaithfulness to God.

What characterized the Southern Kingdom of Judah?

All its kings were descendants of David, with Jerusalem as its capital.

Who were notable kings of Judah?

Hezekiah, Manasseh, and Josiah.

What reforms did King Josiah implement?

Covenant renewal, elimination of syncretism, and centralization of worship.

What led to the Babylonian conquest of Judah?

Judah's unfaithfulness to God, resulting in the destruction of the temple and the deposition of the king.

What was the Deuteronomic History's explanation for Judah's downfall?

YHWH allowed Babylon to defeat Judah as punishment for their unfaithfulness.

What does the phrase 'In those days there was no king in Israel' imply?

It suggests a lack of leadership and moral guidance, leading to chaos and individualism.

What was the purpose of the Deuteronomic History?

To reaffirm YHWH's sovereignty and encourage faithfulness among the exiled Jews.

What does the story of Jephthah in Judges illustrate?

The questionable decisions made to fulfill vows, raising ethical dilemmas.

What was the impact of David's private moral failures on his public role?

It raises questions about the importance of personal integrity in leadership.

What was the significance of the temple in Jerusalem for Judah?

It was seen as a symbol of God's presence and protection for the kingdom.

How did the Assyrian and Babylonian invasions affect Judah?

They led to significant destruction and the eventual fall of Jerusalem.