Phoenicians Lived in along the coast of modern day Lebanon Mountainous terrain made it difficult to farm

Phoenicians became expert sailors Established trade routes and trading colonies throughout the Mediterranean

How far did the Phoenicians sail??

The Greek historian, Herodotus claimed that the Phoenicians had circumnavigated Africa

The First Alphabet Created the Alphabet “The Carriers of Civilization” – Spread ideas, technology, customs from the Middle East through the Mediterranean as they traded

In your journal, In your journal, – Explain how the geographic location of a group of people might influence their culture. – Explain how the alphabet became widely used in such a short period of time and how it could influence other cultures.

Judaism – The Beginning

Judaism Beliefs Israelite history and religion closely related Each event showed God’s plan for the Israelite people These beliefs developed into Judaism – it differed from other beliefs from this time – Monotheistic – God is present everywhere – God has complete power

Judaism Beliefs

Ten Commandments are the heart of Judaism In addition, the Torah gave other laws – Everyday matters – Punishment for crimes – Laws were carried out with justice and mercy Judaism Beliefs

Prophets – Religious teacher speaking for God – Code of ethics or moral behavior – Live good and descent lives – Protect the poor and weak – All people equal before God – Leaders were human, not worshipped – Kings had to obey God’s laws just as shepherds Judaism Beliefs

Effects of Judaism Diaspora Celebration called the “Pass Over”

Had an important influence on two later religions – Christianity and Islam Have their beginnings from Judaism Came from the same geographic areas Monotheistic Honor the prophets Share the same point of view Effects of Judaism

Review In your journal: – Explain how the religion of Judaism were different from other ancient religions. – Explain their core beliefs – Explain how other major religions of the world were influenced by Judaism