Scriptures Exam 2

  1. Main contents of the book of Exodus: Exodus narrates the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, the covenant with God at Sinai, the giving of the Ten Commandments, and their journey toward the Promised Land.

  2. Two views of Exodus (15th and 13th century): The 15th-century view places the Exodus around 1446 BCE, while the 13th-century view suggests it occurred around 1270 BCE, with differing interpretations of archaeological and biblical evidence.

  3. Merneptah Stele: An ancient Egyptian inscription from the reign of Pharaoh Merneptah (c. 1207 BCE) that mentions "Israel" as a people living in Canaan.

  4. Hyksos: A group of Semitic peoples who ruled Egypt during the Second Intermediate Period (c. 1650-1550 BCE), often linked to the story of Joseph's rise in Egypt.

  5. Amarna Letters: A collection of diplomatic correspondence between Egypt and other Near Eastern states, dating to the 14th century BCE, reflecting the political situation during the time of the Exodus.

  6. Shasu: A term for nomadic peoples, often associated with the early Israelites, mentioned in Egyptian texts during the 13th century BCE.

  7. Moses’s life and calling: Moses, born in Egypt, was called by God at the burning bush to lead the Israelites out of slavery, receiving divine commands and guidance.

  8. Passover (and the Feast of the Unleavened Bread), Christian understanding: Passover commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, with Christians seeing it as a type of Christ’s sacrifice, which brings spiritual freedom.

  9. Crossing the Red Sea and Manna, Christian understanding: The Red Sea crossing symbolizes God's deliverance and Christian salvation, while manna represents God's provision, seen as a foreshadowing of Christ as the "bread of life."

  10. The identity of Israel by Yahweh: Yahweh defines Israel’s identity as His chosen people, to live in covenant faithfulness with Him and be a light to the nations.

  11. The Ten Commandments: A set of moral and religious principles given to Moses at Sinai, forming the foundation for Israel’s covenant with God.

  12. Sinai Covenant vs. Abrahamic Covenant: The Sinai Covenant, given through Moses, emphasizes laws and obedience, while the Abrahamic Covenant focuses on God’s promises to Abraham and his descendants.

  13. Golden Calf incident (Exodus 32-34): Israel's sin of worshipping a golden calf in Moses' absence leads to judgment, repentance, and renewal of the covenant with God.

  14. Sending Spies in Numbers 13-14: Moses sends 12 spies to Canaan; ten report fear, while Joshua and Caleb trust God's promise, leading to Israel’s rebellion and delay in entering the land.

  15. The significance of the wilderness to Israel: The wilderness represents a time of testing, dependence on God, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

  16. Three main priestly matters: Sacrifices, purification rites, and maintaining holiness in the community, as outlined in Leviticus.

  17. Meaning and function of the Tabernacle: The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary where God’s presence dwelt among Israel, symbolizing His covenant and holiness.

  18. Three-partite structures of the Tabernacle: The Tabernacle consisted of the Outer Court, the Holy Place, and the Holy of Holies, each with its own significance in terms of access to God.

  19. Burnt Offering: The animal was completely burned as an atonement for sin, signifying total surrender and devotion to God.

  20. Meaning of holiness: Holiness refers to being set apart for God, characterized by purity, righteousness, and obedience to divine commands.

  21. How to read and apply the Old Testament law as Christian: Christians see the OT law as pointing to Christ, with the moral law remaining relevant, while ceremonial and civil laws were fulfilled in Jesus.

  22. What is Deuteronomy?: Deuteronomy is a book of speeches by Moses, summarizing Israel’s history and laws, emphasizing covenant renewal before entering the Promised Land.

  23. What is Shema?: A central Jewish prayer (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) declaring the oneness of God and the command to love Him with all one's heart, soul, and might.

  24. Concluding the Pentateuch: The Pentateuch ends with Moses' death and the Israelites poised to enter Canaan, setting the stage for future history.

  25. Composition of the Pentateuch: Dr. Chae discusses the documentary hypothesis, which posits multiple sources behind the Pentateuch, suggesting later editorial work over time.

  26. What is the Deuteronomistic History (DH)?: The DH refers to a collection of books (Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings) written to explain Israel's history, emphasizing the covenant and consequences of disobedience, likely written during the exile.

  27. Three Settlement models of Israelites in Canaan: The Military Invasion model posits Israel as conquering Canaan by force; the Peaceful Infiltration model sees gradual settlement; the Peasant Revolt model suggests internal upheaval led to Israel's rise.

  28. Main contents/theological implications of Joshua: Joshua details Israel's conquest of Canaan, emphasizing God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises, and the importance of covenant obedience.

  29. Meaning of kherem: Kherem refers to a ban or devotion of things to God, often implying destruction or offering to God, particularly in warfare contexts.

  30. Main contents/theological implications of Judges: Judges narrates the cycle of Israel’s sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, showing God’s patience and the need for faithful leadership.

  31. Main Characters of 1 Samuel:

  • Samuel: A prophet and judge who leads Israel and anoints the first two kings.

  • Saul: The first king of Israel, whose reign ends in failure due to disobedience.

  • David: A young shepherd chosen by God to replace Saul, becoming Israel's most famous king.

  1. How does the transition to kingdom happen?: Israel transitions from a theocracy to a monarchy when the people demand a king; Samuel anoints Saul as the first king, and later David succeeds him.