After escaping from Egypt, the Hebrews settled in Canaan, the land promised to Abraham, around 1250 BCE. The Phoenicians, ship-builders and traders, also settled in the land of Canaan along with the Philistines and many other peoples. These many different groups both traded and fought continually.
The Israelites begged for a king, and they were given Saul. David followed, and defeated the Philistines. His son Solomon was king after him.
The nation of Israel divided into Israel in the north and Judah in the south in 931 BCE after Solomon was punished for building temples for his pagan wives.
In class activities:
- Made medusa hats and discussed the difference between Greek gods and the God of the Hebrews
- Played olympic games
- Learned about the consequences Israel faced for disobedience
- Learned about the first 3 kings of Israel
- Threw "stones" at Goliath
Optional lesson extension activities:
- Play in the ancient olympics in this online game
- Explore the daily life of Canaanites through archaeology
- Learn about the Phoenician alphabet
- Read history cards NT 9-11
- Practice your timeline
