Introduction to the Old Testament
What's in the Old Testament?The Old Testament establishes God as the creator and sustainer of the universe and then follows the story of God's relationship with humans through the great flood; the call of Abraham; the forming of the holy nation of Israel; and Israel's settling of, exile from, and return to the Promised Land. God often speaks to the people through individuals such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, and the prophets.
The Old Testament includes 39 books written by many authors over several centuries. The books can be grouped into four categories:
- Genesis–Deuteronomy: the books of law, also known as the Torah or Pentateuch. The Pentateuch tells of creation, the birth of the nation of Israel, Israel's escape from slavery in Egypt, and the covenant that God made with the people through Moses.
- Joshua–Esther: the books of history. These books tell the story of the rise and fall of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.
- Job–Song of Solomon: the books of wisdom and poetry. These books are collections of songs, poems, and wise sayings, many of which are attributed to the great kings David and Solomon.
- Isaiah–Malachi: the prophets. As God's messengers, the prophets held the people and their leaders to high standards of love and justice.
