Study Questions for the Hebrew Bible

1. The Greeks had many gods, often associated with particular cities or as aspect of humanity. The Hebrew Bible can be seen as the main source in the West for monotheism. What difference does that make for ideals?

2. What does the frequent references to the failure of the Israelites to conform to the will or expectations of God mean for what an ideal person would/should do?

3. Often the most important community in the Hebrew Bible is the Israelites. How is that different from the importance given by Plato and Aristotle to the Greek polis.

4. What is the basis for accepting the validity of, say, the ten commandments?

5.  At various points in Exodus and other books, rather specific rules are given about people should conduct themselves – how to treat slaves and thieves, what things to eat when, etc. What purpose could these rules have?

Application: If you were running for office in this election, what would the Hebrew Bible teach you is your principle obligation as you conduct your campaign?