How Israel Became a People

by Ralph K. Hawkins

How did Israel become a people? Is the biblical story accurate? In what sense, if any, is the biblical story true? Are the origins of these ancient people lost in myth or is there hope to discovering who they were and how they lived? These questions divide students and scholars alike.While many believe the "Conquest" is only a fable, this book will present a different view. Using biblical materials and the new archaeological data, this title tells how the ancient Israelites settled in Canaan and became the people of Israel.The stakes for understanding the history of ancient Israel are high. The Old Testament tells us that Yahweh led the Hebrews into the land of Canaan and commanded them to drive its indigenous inhabitants out and settle in their place. This account has often served as justification for the possession of the land by the modern state of Israel. Archaeology is a "weapon" in the debate, used by both Israelis and Palestinians trying to write each other out of the historical narrative. This book provides needed background for the issues and will be of interest to those concerned with the complexity of Arab-Israeli relations.

Genres: Biblical Studies

306 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2013

Reviews

[Rachel Schoenberger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives a great presentation of the various views on the origin of ancient Israel. Chapters 3 and 4 defend a late date of the exodus and conquest and provide a refutation of many early-date arguments. Then there is information presented on the archaeology of the conquest sites, the Mount Ebal altar, and other early Israelite settlements. Ultimately, the conclusion is made that the evidence, both biblical and extra-biblical, points to a non-Caananite origin theory that involved military action against certain cities.

[Zach Waldis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hawkins argues that the Noth hypothesis of "peaceful infiltration" is best for understanding the conquest, a bit of a twist for a more conservative scholar. Much of this was over my head; "you call this archaeology?"

[Blake Reas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent history of Israel. Interesting arguments on the origins of the Israelite settlement.

[Allison Wise · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5! Some interesting arguments! It is very dense but super helpful to have "conclusion" sections at the end of each chapter hahahah