CCRI Power Points - WC I - Chp. 2 (3)

Chapter 2 Overview

The Children of Israel

  • Followers of Abraham migrated from Mesopotamia to Palestine (2nd millennium BC).

  • Enslaved by Egyptians, led by Moses out of Egypt (around 13th century BC).

  • Wandered Sinai for over 40 years, settled in Palestine after conflicts with indigenous peoples.

  • Encountered Canaanites, Amorites, Philistines, engaging in both warfare and peaceful relations.

From Hebrews to Israelites

  • Greatest threat from the Philistines.

  • Saul (c. 1025 BC) leads unsuccessful efforts against Philistines; establishes monarchy over the 12 tribes.

  • Centralization of political organization into a monarchy; the term "Israelites" emerges.

David and Solomon

  • David (c. 1005-965 BC) succeeds Saul; pushes Philistines back, captures Jerusalem, expands territory.

  • Solidifies Israel, enhances security, and consolidates monarchy.

  • Solomon (965-925 BC) known for extensive building projects, including the Great Temple in Jerusalem.

  • The Temple housed the Ark of the Covenant and other significant relics.

Solomon's Reign

  • Israel enters commercial mainstream, maintains good relations with Phoenicians.

  • High taxes and forced labor lead to unpopularity.

  • After Solomon's death, Israel splits into:

    • Kingdom of Israel (North, capital at Samaria).

    • Kingdom of Judah (South, capital at Jerusalem).

  • Kingdom of Israel conquered by Assyrians (722 BC); Kingdom of Judah by Babylonians (587 BC).

  • Babylonian Captivity leads to redefined beliefs and laws; followers identified as Jews.

Jewish Religion

  • Covenant Concept: Formal agreement; Jews would be God’s chosen people if they worship Yahweh.

  • Yahweh's Unique Status: Only true God; initiates monotheism.

The Torah and Talmud

  • Torah: First five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) and Mosaic Law (Ten Commandments).

  • Talmud: Scriptures from Babylonian Captivity, detailing civil/ceremonial law and legends.

Assyria

  • Emerged at Nineveh (9th century BC); warlike, established an empire through military prowess and commerce.

  • Downfall starts in mid-late 7th century BC; internal strife among nobility.

Persia

  • Located in modern Iran; Cyrus the Great (r. 559-530 BC) unified Persians and Medes, establishing a province.

  • Cyrus's characteristics include enlightened views and respect for diverse conquered peoples.

Cyrus the Great

  • Fostered peace and prosperity for 200 years for the Near East.

  • Goals: Control western trade routes, secure eastern Iran from nomads.

Cyrus Continued

  • Subdued Lydia (546 BC) and Greeks on Anatolian coast; welcomed in Babylon as liberator (540 BC).

  • Released Jews from captivity; they returned to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.

Persian Religion

  • Zoroastrianism: Founded by Zoroaster (660 BC) emphasizing choice between good and evil; believes in free will and Last Judgment.

Persia’s World Empire

  • By 513 BC, Persia conquers the known world using bureaucratic methods, provincial governors responsible to the king.

  • Established an effective network of roads; wealth hoarding and excessive taxation contribute to eventual decline.