Historical Books
The Bible's historical books tell the story of Israel's history, from entering the Promised Land to their exile and return, showing how God guided and judged His people over time.
Joshua
Details the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership.
Judges
Recounts the cycles of Israel’s disobedience, oppression, and deliverance by judges appointed by God.
Ruth
A story of loyalty and redemption, following Ruth and her faithfulness, leading to her place in Israel’s lineage.
1 Samuel
Describes the life of Samuel, Israel’s transition to monarchy, and the rise of King Saul.
2 Samuel
Chronicles King David’s reign, his triumphs, and his personal and political challenges.
1 Kings
Covers the reign of Solomon, the division of Israel into two kingdoms, and the early kings of both.
2 Kings
Details the decline and fall of both Israel and Judah due to their disobedience to God.
1 Chronicles
Retells the history of David’s rule and emphasizes God’s covenant with Israel.
2 Chronicles
Chronicles the kings of Judah, focusing on temple worship and faithfulness to God.
Ezra
Describes the return of exiles to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple.
Nehemiah
Tells of the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls and the restoration of the community.
Tobit
A story of faithfulness and divine providence, following Tobit, a righteous Israelite, and his son Tobias, who is guided by the angel Raphael to find healing and deliverance for their family.
Judith
Tells the story of Judith, a courageous Jewish widow, who saves her people by using her wit and bravery to defeat an enemy general threatening Israel.
Esther
The story of Queen Esther, who risks her life to save her people from destruction.
1 Maccabees
Chronicles the struggle of the Jewish people to gain independence from Greek rule, highlighting the heroic efforts of the Maccabee family to restore religious freedom and cleanse the Temple.
2 Maccabees
Focuses on the religious and moral aspects of the Jewish struggle against Greek oppression, emphasizing God’s intervention, martyrdom, and the hope of resurrection for those who remain faithful.