Comprehensive Torah and Exodus Study Guide: Sources, Key Events, Laws, and Symbols

What are the four main sources of the Torah?

Elohist (E), Deuteronomist (D), Yahwist (J), and Priestly (P).

How does the Elohist source refer to God?

As El or Elohim until God reveals His name as YHWH.

What is the focus of the Deuteronomist source?

Centralizing worship in Jerusalem and repeating earlier content.

What characterizes the Yahwist source?

Uses YHWH almost exclusively and portrays God as anthropomorphic.

What is the Priestly source known for?

Written after the Babylonian Exile, focusing on genealogies, priestly laws, and proper worship.

What does the Book of Exodus mean?

Means 'going out' and is traditionally attributed to Moses.

What significant event occurs after Joseph's death in Egypt?

The Israelites multiply and are enslaved by a new Pharaoh.

How is Moses saved as a baby?

He is hidden for three months and placed in a basket on the Nile, rescued by Pharaoh's daughter.

What does the name 'Moses' mean?

'To draw out of water.'

What is the significance of the Burning Bush?

God reveals Himself and promises to deliver Israel.

What are the Ten Plagues of Egypt?

1. Blood 2. Frogs 3. Gnats/Lice 4. Flies 5. Pestilence 6. Boils 7. Hail and Fire 8. Locusts 9. Darkness 10. Death of Firstborn.

What is the origin of Passover?

The final plague kills every Egyptian firstborn; Israelites mark doors with lamb's blood.

What are the instructions for the Seder Meal?

Lamb roasted with bitter herbs, unleavened bread, and wine.

What does the Ark of the Covenant represent?

God's presence among His people, containing the Commandments.

What was the Golden Calf Incident?

Israelites made a golden calf idol while Moses was on Sinai, leading to God's anger.

What are the Ten Commandments?

1. No other gods. 2. Don't take God's name in vain. 3. Keep the Sabbath holy. 4. Honour parents. 5. Don't kill. 6. Don't commit adultery. 7. Don't steal. 8. Don't bear false witness. 9. Don't covet neighbour's wife. 10. Don't covet neighbour's property.

What does the Covenant Code contain?

613 additional laws sealed with animal blood as a treaty.

What is the significance of the Israelites as God's chosen people?

The covenant establishes their new destiny as a priestly nation.

What is the duration of the Israelites' stay at Sinai?

They stayed one year at Sinai before wandering for 40 years.

What does the Book of Leviticus focus on?

Israel's time at Mount Sinai, emphasizing ritual and priestly codes.

What does the Book of Numbers recount?

40 years of wandering, including the census and the perishing of the old generation.

What does the Book of Deuteronomy contain?

Moses' three farewell sermons stressing obedience to the Law and ends with his death.