Notes PP Hebrews

Kush and Axum

Five Cultures
Mesopotamia
Egypt
Indus Valley
Shang China
Olmecs

Hebrews and Monotheism

Hebrew Society
Originally semi-nomadic herders (goats and sheep)
Lacked metal working, written language, sophisticated craftsmanship
Lived in tents
Patriarchal structure, tied to priesthood

Family and tribal loyalties
Justice was central to their life
Originally carried their religion with them:
Ark of the Covenant
Monotheism
Issues of El and Ba’al
Strife and conflict within Hebrew society
Validity of the Torah
Relationship between God and man

A Nation
The prophet Samuel selected a king
Saul, David, Solomon
Expansion and cohesion
Writing and calendaring are utilized
Warriors, taxes, trade, metallurgy, public works, agriculture

Israel and Judah split
Israel, Judah, Pheonicia, Damascus and Assyria politically embroiled
Weakening of a Hebrew nation ultimately led to displacement
Hebrew Writing

Record keeping people
Continuity of culture
Supports political life and commerce
Bears witness to relationship between the Hebrews and their god
Serves as historical insight
Religion

Ritual sacrifice
Priesthood
Annual holidays
Diet
Clothing/physical appearance
Temples and synagogues
Women
Sacred writings

The western wall of the Jewish temple