REL/JSP 302 Second Temple Judaism

Loss of Temple and Land

Readings questions on 2 Kings 16-20, 25; Leviticus 26; Lamentations 2

These readings from the Hebrew Bible reflect the destruction of the first Jerusalem temple from three different perspectives and genres. As you read them, consider:

1. How does 2 Kings explain the destruction of Judea and its temple?
2. Is the attitude of Lamentations 2 towards the destruction different from that of 2 Kings?
3. What lesson does Leviticus want people to learn from this devastating experience?
4. Why do you think that the Hebrew Bible has preserved these reactions to this ancient event?