Lesson 1: The Early Hebrews (The Hebrews and Judaism)
🌍 Abraham and Moses Lead Their People
A long time ago, a man named Abraham lived in a city called Ur, in Mesopotamia. One day, God spoke to him. God told Abraham to leave his home and go to a new land called Canaan. God promised Abraham that his family would grow into a great nation.
Abraham obeyed. He trusted God and moved with his family. This was the beginning of the Hebrew people.
🧱 The Hebrews in Egypt
After many years in Canaan, the Hebrews moved to Egypt because there was no food (a famine). At first, they were treated well. But later, a new pharaoh made them slaves.
Then came Moses, a Hebrew man raised in the Egyptian palace. One day, God spoke to Moses through a burning bush! 🔥 God told him, “Let my people go.”
Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt. This escape is called The Exodus. On the way, the Hebrews crossed the Red Sea (God made the water split in two!). They also received the Ten Commandments on a mountain.
After many years of traveling, they finally returned to Canaan, the land God had promised.
👑 Kings Unite the Israelites
The Hebrews were now called the Israelites. They wanted a king to lead them. Their first king was Saul, but their greatest king was David.
⚔️ King David
David was once a shepherd boy. He became famous for fighting a giant named Goliath with just a sling! 🪀⚔️ He later became king and made Jerusalem the capital.
🕊️ King Solomon
David’s son Solomon became king after him. Solomon was wise and built a beautiful temple in Jerusalem. People from many lands came to hear his wisdom.
🏹 Invaders Conquer and Rule
After Solomon died, the kingdom split in two: Israel in the north and Judah in the south.
Soon, invaders came. The Assyrians conquered Israel. Later, the Babylonians conquered Judah and destroyed Solomon’s temple. Many Jews were taken far from home. This is called the Diaspora, which means "scattering."
Even though they were far away, the Jews still kept their faith and traditions. Later, they returned and rebuilt, but other empires like the Romans would rule over them.
👩🦰 Women in Israelite Society
In ancient Israel, men led most public life, but women had important roles too.
Ruth is a famous woman in the Bible. She was not born a Hebrew, but she chose to follow her Hebrew mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth said, “Your people will be my people, and your God my God.” She is remembered for her loyalty and love.
Deborah was a judge and leader. She helped lead the Israelites in battle!
Though life was harder for women, stories like Ruth and Deborah show that faith, courage, and loyalty were deeply valued.
✡️ Summary
Abraham and Moses helped start the Hebrew people and their faith.
Moses led the Hebrews out of slavery in Egypt (The Exodus).
Kings David and Solomon united the Israelites and built Jerusalem.
The Jews were conquered and scattered but kept their faith.
Women like Ruth and Deborah played important roles in Hebrew history.