The Old Testament is divided into five sections: the Pentateuch (Genesis through Deuteronomy), the historical books (Joshua through Esther), the poetic books (Job through Song of Solomon), the Major Prophets (Isaiah through Daniel), and the Minor Prophets (Hosea through Malachi). The Old Testament was written from approximately 1400 B.C. to approximately 400 B.C. The Old Testament was written primarily in Hebrew, with a few small sections written in Aramaic (essentially a variation of Hebrew).
The Old Testament deals primarily with the relationship between God and the nation of Israel. The Pentateuch deals with the creation of Israel and God establishing a covenant relationship with Israel. The historical books record Israel’s history, its victories and successes along with its defeats and failures. The poetic books give us a more intimate look at God’s relationship with Israel and His passion for Israel to worship and obey Him. The prophetic books are God’s call to Israel to repent from its idolatry and unfaithfulness and to return to a relationship of obedience and spiritual fidelity.
Perhaps a better title would be the First Testament. The word “old” tends to give the idea of “outdated” or “not-relevant.” That could not be further from the truth. Please read the following articles:
A survey of the Old Testament is a worthwhile and spiritually-enriching endeavor. Below are links to summaries of the various books of the Old Testament. We sincerely hope you find our Old Testament Survey beneficial in your walk with Christ.
Summary of the Book of Genesis
Summary of the Book of Leviticus
Summary of the Book of Numbers
Summary of the Book of Deuteronomy
Summary of the Book of 1 Samuel
Summary of the Book of 2 Samuel
Summary of the Book of 1 Kings
Summary of the Book of 2 Kings
Summary of the Book of 1 Chronicles
Summary of the Book of 2 Chronicles
Summary of the Book of Nehemiah
Summary of the Book of Proverbs
Summary of the Book of Ecclesiastes
Summary of the Song of Solomon
Summary of the Book of Jeremiah
Summary of the Book of Lamentations
Summary of the Book of Ezekiel
Summary of the Book of Obadiah
Summary of the Book of Habakkuk
Summary of the Book of Zephaniah
Summary of the Book of Zechariah
Summary of the Book of Malachi
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Old Testament Survey