Ancient Israel

Abraham, the Patriarch of Three Faiths

Christianity and Islam share a reverence for Judaism's patriarch.

The Golden Calf

As commonly understood, this biblical narrative condemns the first violation of the prohibition against idolatry--but it's not that simple.

Prophets (Nevi’im)

Nevi’im (the Prophets section of the Bible) presents Israel's history as a nation on its land.

The Temple and its Destruction

A look into the psyche of ancient Judaism.

Western Wall

This remnant of the Second Temple is an important symbol in Judaism.

Palestine Under Hasmonean Rule

The marriage of politics and religion contributed to both the expansion and destruction of this short-lived dynasty.

Maccabean Revolt

The Maccabees fought both the foreign Seleucids and homegrown Hellenism.

Conquering Canaan

Joshua and Judges present different versions of the Israelite conquest.

Creating the Jewish Canon

The 24 books that make up with the Jewish Bible evolved over time in a process that reveals what the ancient rabbis considered authoritative -- and what they didn't.

King Saul

Israel's first king was a controversial ruler.

What Are Judaism’s Lost Tribes?

Who were they and where are they now?