1. The Origins of Judaism

2. Background Hebrew people were just another among many trying to eek out a living in the not so fertile crescent Worshiped many gods and giving sacrifices for good fortune Abraham – the founder of the religion –Says that there is one god

3. A Roaming People’s God Monotheists ‘Yahweh’ was not physical – no images promise obedience for land (the 1 st covenant)

4. Founding of Jewish religion Covenant - deal with god –The deal Abraham would have kids (he was 99) Decedents would be as numerous as the stars Can have Canaan forever (this would be a little issue to this day) In return – all the male decedents of Abraham shall be circumcised

5. Search for a Promised Land History from the Torah Abraham and the founder: Migrated and made a nation (Canaan) 1800 BC - Canaan 1650 BC - Egypt

6. Exodus Slavery in Egypt 1300-1200 BC left lead by Moses Festival of Passover commemorates

8. The New Covenant Moses on Mt Sinai 10 Commandments Base for civil and religious laws Obedience for protection

9. 40 Years in the Desert https://www.youtube.c om/watch?v=y_Rzd2y 2POghttps://www.youtube.c om/watch?v=y_Rzd2y 2POg

10. From Nomads to Settlers Herders, farmers, city dwellers Technology from Phoenicians 12 self governing tribes Combine for mutual defense

11. Kingdom of Israel Judah largest tribe Judaism and Jews Tribes unite to drive out Philistines Saul first king Son-In-Law, David next: very popular

12. Solomon David’s son – dynasty Powerful and rich trading kingdom Great Temple is home to Ark of the Covenant Huge beautiful palace

13. Kingdom Divides High taxes strain finances Forced labor on buildings North revolts when Solomon dies Israel in south Judah in north

14. Babylonian Captivity Tribute to Assyria 722 BC conquered by Assyrians 150 yrs later south conquered by Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar Temple destroyed Most exiled

15. The Return Nebuchadnezzar drives Egyptians out of Palestine 539 BC, Cyrus the Persian defeats Babylon Permits 40,000 exiles to return Temple rebuilt and new walls