Synopsis
What is the Old Testament about?
The Old Testament is a collection of religious texts that form the first part of the Christian Bible, overlapping largely with the Hebrew Bible. It begins with Genesis, which covers creation, the fall of humanity, Noah's flood, and the stories of the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It continues with Exodus, de…
Following these are historical books that recount the period of judges, the reigns of kings like David and Solomon, the division of the kingdom, exile in Babylon, and eventual return. Wisdom literature such as Psalms and Proverbs offers poetry and practical teachings, while prophetic books like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel call Israel to faithfulness, address exile and restoration, and express hope for a coming messiah.
Overall, the Old Testament centers on themes of covenant between God and Israel, law and mercy, exile and return, and messianic expectation.