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Intro to Judaism
Table of Contents
Unit 5 Overview: Ancient Israel and the Exodus
5.1 Biblical Narratives of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs
5.2 The Exodus and the Giving of the Torah
5.3 Conquest and Settlement of Canaan
5.4 The United and Divided Monarchies

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5.4 The United and Divided Monarchies

Citation:

The United and Divided Monarchies mark a pivotal era in ancient Israelite history. Starting with Saul's reign, the united kingdom reached its peak under David and Solomon, expanding territory and building the First Temple in Jerusalem.

After Solomon's death, the kingdom split into Israel and Judah. This division led to political instability, religious challenges, and vulnerability to foreign powers. Prophets emerged as moral voices, critiquing rulers and emphasizing covenant, ethics, and messianic hopes.

United Monarchy of Israel

Establishment and Reign of Saul

  • The united monarchy began with the reign of Saul (c. 1047-1007 BCE), a member of the tribe of Benjamin
  • Saul was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the first king of Israel
  • He led the Israelites in battles against their enemies, including the Philistines (Goliath)
  • Saul's reign was marked by military successes but also by his disobedience to God's commands, which led to his downfall

Reign of David and Expansion of the Kingdom

  • David, a member of the tribe of Judah, succeeded Saul as king (c. 1007-970 BCE)
  • He expanded Israel's territory, conquering Jerusalem and making it his capital
  • David defeated the Philistines, Moabites, Edomites, and Ammonites, establishing Israel as a regional power
  • He is known for his military prowess, as well as his musical and poetic abilities (Psalms)
  • David's reign was not without controversy, including his affair with Bathsheba and the rebellion of his son Absalom

Solomon's Rule and the Height of the United Monarchy

  • Solomon, David's son, became king after him (c. 970-931 BCE)
  • He is known for his wisdom (Proverbs), wealth, and the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem
  • Under Solomon's rule, Israel reached its greatest territorial extent and experienced a period of peace and prosperity
  • Solomon engaged in extensive building projects, including the royal palace and fortifications (Megiddo)
  • He established trade relationships with neighboring kingdoms, such as Tyre and Egypt
  • The united monarchy was characterized by the centralization of political and religious authority, with the king ruling as God's representative on earth

Division of the Monarchy

Reasons for the Split

  • After Solomon's death (c. 931 BCE), the united monarchy split into two separate kingdoms due to political, economic, and religious factors
  • The northern tribes, led by Jeroboam, rebelled against Solomon's son Rehoboam, who refused to lighten the heavy taxation and forced labor imposed by his father
  • Jeroboam had been a high-ranking official under Solomon but fled to Egypt after the king tried to kill him
  • The division was also influenced by long-standing tribal rivalries and the perceived favoritism towards the southern tribe of Judah

The Northern Kingdom of Israel

  • The northern kingdom, known as Israel or Samaria, consisted of ten tribes and established its capital in Shechem (later moved to Samaria)
  • Jeroboam, fearing that his people might return to Jerusalem to worship, set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan as alternative worship sites
  • The northern kingdom was characterized by political instability, with frequent coups and dynasty changes (Omri, Jehu)
  • Israel was eventually conquered by the Assyrian Empire in 722 BCE, leading to the loss of the ten northern tribes

The Southern Kingdom of Judah

  • The southern kingdom, known as Judah, remained loyal to the Davidic dynasty and maintained control over Jerusalem and the Temple
  • Judah was generally more stable politically than Israel, with kings like Jehoshaphat and Hezekiah implementing religious reforms
  • However, Judah also faced challenges from idolatry and foreign religious influences, particularly during the reigns of kings like Ahaz and Manasseh
  • The Babylonian Empire conquered Judah, destroyed the First Temple in 586 BCE, and exiled a significant portion of the population to Babylon

Challenges of the Divided Kingdoms

Political Instability and External Threats

  • The northern kingdom of Israel struggled with political instability, experiencing frequent coups and dynasty changes
  • Many of its kings were considered sinful and idolatrous by the biblical authors (Jeroboam, Ahab)
  • Both kingdoms faced the threat of powerful neighboring empires, such as Assyria and Babylon, which sought to expand their territories and exact tribute
  • The Assyrian Empire conquered Israel in 722 BCE, deporting much of its population and resettling the area with foreign peoples (Samaritans)
  • The Babylonian Empire, under Nebuchadnezzar II, conquered Judah, destroyed the First Temple in 586 BCE, and exiled a significant portion of the population to Babylon

Religious Challenges and Idolatry

  • The southern kingdom of Judah, while more stable politically, also faced challenges from idolatry and foreign religious influences
  • Kings like Ahaz and Manasseh promoted the worship of foreign gods and engaged in practices such as child sacrifice
  • The religious split led to the establishment of separate shrines and temples in the northern kingdom, which were seen as a violation of the commandment to worship only at the Temple in Jerusalem
  • The exilic experience had a profound impact on Jewish religious thought, leading to the development of new theological ideas and the increased importance of the Torah and prophetic teachings

Prophets in the Divided Kingdoms

Prophetic Critiques of the Monarchy

  • Prophets played a significant role in the divided monarchies, acting as moral and religious advisors to the kings and the people
  • They often critiqued the actions of the monarchy and called for repentance and social justice
  • Prophets like Elijah and Elisha in the northern kingdom confronted kings who promoted idolatry and Baal worship (Ahab and Jezebel)
  • In the southern kingdom, prophets such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel warned of the consequences of sin and foretold the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple as divine punishment

Themes of Covenant, Judgment, and Ethics

  • The prophets' messages often included themes of covenant, divine judgment, and the need for ethical behavior and social justice
  • They emphasized the importance of exclusive devotion to Yahweh and the consequences of breaking the covenant relationship
  • The prophets called for the protection of the poor, the widow, and the orphan, and condemned the exploitation of the vulnerable (Amos)
  • Their teachings helped shape the Jewish understanding of the relationship between God and his people, focusing on individual and communal responsibility rather than mere ritual observance

Messianic Expectations and Future Hope

  • The prophetic vision of a future restoration and redemption, particularly during and after the Babylonian exile, contributed to the development of messianic expectations in Judaism
  • Prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel spoke of a future time when God would restore his people, establish a new covenant, and bring about a reign of peace and justice
  • The idea of a Messiah, an anointed king from the line of David who would deliver Israel from its enemies and establish a perfect kingdom, became a central theme in Jewish eschatology
  • The prophetic books, which form a substantial portion of the Hebrew Bible, preserve the teachings and predictions of these figures and their enduring influence on Jewish thought

Key Terms to Review (32)

Ezekiel: Ezekiel was a Hebrew prophet and priest active during the 6th century BCE, known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions that conveyed God's messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. His writings are a significant part of the Hebrew Bible, focusing on themes of judgment, hope, and the restoration of Israel after the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple.
Amos: Amos is one of the twelve minor prophets in the Hebrew Bible, recognized for his emphasis on social justice and moral integrity. He prophesied during the reign of King Jeroboam II in Israel, calling out the injustices and corrupt practices of the wealthy elite, highlighting the need for true worship and ethical behavior among God's people.
Jeremiah: Jeremiah was a major prophet in the Hebrew Bible who lived during a tumultuous period in ancient Israel, particularly around the time of the destruction of Jerusalem and the First Temple. Known for his prophecies and deep emotional expression, he served as a voice of warning to the people, urging them to repent and return to their covenant with God, particularly during the period of the divided monarchy when tensions were high between the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.
Dan: Dan is a term referring to one of the tribes of Israel, specifically the fifth son of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. This tribe played a significant role during the period of the United and Divided Monarchies, especially in relation to its geographical and political positioning in ancient Israel, as well as its involvement in the worship practices that sometimes led to tensions with other tribes and centralized authority.
Isaiah: Isaiah was a major prophet in ancient Israel, whose life and messages are recorded in the biblical book of Isaiah. He is known for his prophecies regarding the impending judgment of Israel, the hope of future restoration, and the coming of a Messiah, making him a pivotal figure during the time of the United and Divided Monarchies.
Rehoboam: Rehoboam was the son of King Solomon and the first king of the Kingdom of Judah after the united monarchy split into two separate kingdoms. His reign marked a significant transition as he faced the challenge of maintaining control over his kingdom while also addressing the grievances of the northern tribes, which ultimately led to the division of Israel into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah.
Jeroboam: Jeroboam was the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the split of the united monarchy, reigning around 931-910 BCE. He is significant for establishing an independent kingdom that broke away from the rule of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, marking a pivotal moment in Israelite history that led to the formation of two separate kingdoms: Israel and Judah.
Manasseh: Manasseh was a king of Judah, known for his long reign and significant influence during the period of the Divided Monarchy. He ruled for 55 years, during which he implemented extensive reforms, including both idolatrous practices and attempts at religious reform. His reign is often characterized by a tension between traditional Yahwistic worship and the worship of foreign deities, reflecting the complexities of Judahite religion during this time.
Bethel: Bethel is a significant ancient city in the Hebrew Bible, known as a religious center in ancient Israel. It is often mentioned in connection with Jacob's dream of a ladder reaching to heaven and later became a site for worship, particularly during the United and Divided Monarchies. The city's role as a cultic center established its importance in the religious practices and political history of Israel.
Elisha: Elisha was a prominent prophet in ancient Israel, known for his role as a successor to the prophet Elijah. He played a vital part in the religious and political landscape during the period of the United and Divided Monarchies, performing miracles and delivering God's messages to the people of Israel and its rulers.
Elijah: Elijah is a prominent prophet in Judaism, known for his fierce advocacy for the worship of Yahweh during a time when Israel was divided and many turned to Baal worship. His story is interwoven with the narratives of the United and Divided Monarchies, where he served as a moral compass and a challenger of royal authority, particularly during the reign of King Ahab in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Elijah's actions and prophecies highlight the tensions between true faith and idolatry in a politically charged environment.
Levitical Priesthood: The Levitical priesthood refers to the religious leadership established from the tribe of Levi, specifically tasked with performing sacred duties and maintaining the worship practices in ancient Israel. This priesthood was crucial during both the United and Divided Monarchies as they facilitated rituals, sacrifices, and the teaching of laws central to Israelite identity and religious life.
Ahaz: Ahaz was a king of Judah who reigned during the 8th century BCE and is often noted for his political alliances and religious reforms. His reign is characterized by a significant shift towards Assyrian influence, which included the adoption of foreign practices and idolatry, diverging from traditional worship of Yahweh.
Philistine Wars: The Philistine Wars refer to a series of conflicts between the ancient Israelites and the Philistines, a group of sea peoples who settled in the coastal regions of Canaan. These wars played a significant role in shaping the early history of Israel, particularly during the period of the United and Divided Monarchies, highlighting themes of territorial struggle, cultural conflict, and the rise of Israelite leadership.
Davidic Line: The Davidic Line refers to the royal lineage that descends from King David, the second king of Israel, who is a central figure in Jewish history and tradition. This lineage is significant because it establishes the legitimacy of kingship in Israel and is believed to hold prophetic importance regarding the future Messiah, who is expected to come from this line. The Davidic Line plays a crucial role in understanding the political and religious developments during both the United and Divided Monarchies of ancient Israel.
Egyptian Empire: The Egyptian Empire refers to the period when Ancient Egypt expanded its territory and influence through military conquests and strategic alliances, reaching its peak during the New Kingdom (circa 1550-1070 BCE). This empire was characterized by a centralized state led by pharaohs, who were considered both political leaders and divine figures, and it played a significant role in the historical context of the United and Divided Monarchies.
Samaria: Samaria was an ancient city and region that served as the capital of the northern Kingdom of Israel after the kingdom split from Judah around 930 BCE. It was significant in biblical history as a center of political power, religious practices, and cultural identity, often representing the tensions between Israel and Judah.
Assyrian Empire: The Assyrian Empire was a powerful Mesopotamian kingdom that thrived from the 25th century BCE to the 7th century BCE, known for its military strength, advanced infrastructure, and significant contributions to culture and governance. At its height, the empire controlled a vast territory including parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey, significantly impacting the history of ancient Israel during the periods of both the United and Divided Monarchies.
Righteous king: A righteous king refers to a monarch in ancient Israel who ruled according to the ethical and moral guidelines established in the Torah, embodying justice, compassion, and devotion to God. This concept is significant as it reflects the ideals of leadership that promote the well-being of the people and adherence to religious law, contrasting with those who led the nation astray through idolatry or injustice.
Prophecy: Prophecy refers to the practice of receiving and delivering messages from a divine source, often concerning future events or the will of God. In many religious traditions, including Judaism, prophets play a crucial role as intermediaries between God and the people, conveying guidance, warnings, and insights. The concept of prophecy is especially significant in the historical context of ancient Israel, where prophets influenced the moral and spiritual direction of the nation during both the United and Divided Monarchies, as well as impacting later Jewish spirituality movements like Hasidism.
The Construction of the First Temple: The construction of the First Temple, also known as Solomon's Temple, was a monumental event in ancient Israelite history, taking place in the 10th century BCE. It represented the culmination of King Solomon's reign and symbolized the centralization of worship in Jerusalem, establishing the city as the spiritual and political heart of the united monarchy. This temple served as a sacred space for the Israelite people and housed the Ark of the Covenant, reflecting their covenantal relationship with God.
Monarchy: Monarchy is a form of governance where a single person, the monarch, holds supreme authority over a state or territory, often inheriting the position through family lineage. This system of rule can be absolute, where the monarch has unchecked power, or constitutional, where their powers are limited by laws or a constitution. Monarchies have played significant roles in shaping the political landscape, particularly in the context of the United and Divided Monarchies.
The establishment of the monarchy: The establishment of the monarchy refers to the transition of ancient Israel from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized royal government, which began with Saul as the first king. This shift marked a significant transformation in the political landscape of Israel, reflecting the people's desire for unity and stronger leadership, as well as a response to external threats from neighboring nations.
Judah: Judah was one of the two ancient kingdoms that emerged after the united monarchy of Israel split around 930 BCE. It was located in the southern part of the historical land of Israel and played a crucial role in the development of Jewish identity and religious practices, especially after the Babylonian Exile.
Hebrew Bible: The Hebrew Bible, also known as the Tanakh, is the canonical collection of Jewish texts that is considered sacred and central to Jewish religious tradition. It consists of three main parts: the Torah (Law), the Nevi'im (Prophets), and the Ketuvim (Writings). This collection provides a historical account of the Jewish people, including their monarchies and the complexities of their society during the periods of the United and Divided Monarchies.
Book of Samuel: The Book of Samuel is a biblical text that narrates the history of Israel during the transition from the period of judges to the establishment of monarchy, covering the lives of significant figures such as Samuel, Saul, and David. This book is crucial for understanding the political and spiritual developments within Israel as it moved from a tribal confederation to a unified monarchy, showcasing both the successes and failures of its leaders.
King Saul: King Saul was the first monarch of the united Kingdom of Israel, ruling during the late 11th century BCE. His reign marked a significant transition from a tribal confederation to a centralized monarchy, with Saul's leadership embodying both military and political challenges that influenced the future of Israelite governance.
King Solomon: King Solomon was a biblical figure known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, notably the First Temple in Jerusalem. As the son of King David, he reigned during a period of prosperity and is credited with uniting the tribes of Israel and establishing a powerful monarchy, which played a crucial role in the history of the ancient Israelites.
King David: King David was the second king of Israel and a pivotal figure in Jewish history, known for uniting the tribes of Israel and establishing Jerusalem as the capital. His reign marked the peak of Israelite power, characterized by military conquests, administrative reforms, and cultural flourishing. He is often celebrated as a model of leadership and is traditionally credited with composing many of the Psalms in the Hebrew Bible.
Covenant: In Judaism, a covenant is a sacred agreement or promise between God and the people, establishing a mutual relationship based on commitments and responsibilities. This concept is foundational to Jewish belief, illustrating the special bond between God and the Israelites, and it encompasses not only laws and commandments but also the overall relationship between humanity and the divine.
Babylonian Exile: The Babylonian Exile refers to the period in Jewish history when a significant portion of the Jewish population was forcibly taken to Babylon after the destruction of the First Temple in 586 BCE. This event marked a pivotal moment in the development of Judaism, influencing religious practices, cultural identity, and the writing of sacred texts.
Israel: Israel refers to both the modern nation-state established in 1948 and the historical and biblical land associated with the Jewish people. It represents a central concept in Jewish identity, spirituality, and history, serving as a homeland for Jews worldwide while also being a significant focal point in global politics and conflicts. The idea of Israel encompasses both a physical territory and an enduring cultural and religious connection for Jews throughout history.