Final Exam Page 10

Question 1

What was the basic Deuteronomic theology as it pertained to David and Jerusalem.

Answer 1

The two basic principles underlying the basic deuteronomic theology are land and covenant.
land»refers to promised land given by God
covenant»refers to Mosaic covenant which was conditional based on obedience
“city of David”….Messiah, line of David, would come and save everyone etc.

Question 2

With regard to Solomon, be able to discuss or describe his rise to the throne, his character weaknesses, and contributions. Be able to list five characteristics or contributions and four negative elements of Solomon’s reign.

Answer 2

Solomon was born in the palace and rose to the kingship with the blessing of David and through the execution of his oppression. He secured the throne by force. He was a lesser person than David, centered upon political self-gratification. He was ambitious and selfish, lacking a touch for the common people. While having the reputation for wisdom and great wealth, he proved to be rather despotic, levying heavy taxes and forced labor. He exploited the people heavily and allowed religious syncretism, which resulted in religious apostasy. His positive contributions included great building projects, the building of the temple, commerce and trade, modernization of the army, and sponsorship of the wisdom tradition within Israel.

Question 3

List at least four causes for the division of the monarchy.

Answer 3

1. Religious unfaithfulness of Solomon and Israel’s appointed leaders
2. Oppressive policies of Solomon that were to be continued
3. Tribal loyalties and conflicts
4. Absence of strong charismatic or gifted leadership

Question 4

Compare and contrast the degree of stability of the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah. How did this vary religiously and politically?

Answer 4

Judah: smaller, more politically stable, all kings belonged to David’s line
Israel: larger, less politically stable, constant change of power
not much difference between either kingdom

Question 5

On what bases did the Deuteronomic historian judge the kings of the northern kingdom of Israel? How did they fare in his evaluation?

Answer 5

The biblical historian judges all of them on two bases:
1. Were they of the line of David?
2. Did they lead their people to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem?
None of the kings in the north qualified on either account, such that the biblical historian “flunks” every king who ruled in the north.