Hebrew Test

1. [Answer both parts (a) and (b) if you choose this question]: (a) What are the main similarities and differences between God and humans, according to the Hebrew scriptures? (b) What are the main similarities and differences between the gods and humans, according to the Iliad?

According to the Iliad humans and gods have the same type of feelings and emotions. They behave the same doing good and bad. They both also identify with the head of the family. According to the Hebrew Scriptures man was made in the image or likeness of God.

2. What is the origin of evil and human suffering, according to the explanations given by each of the following: a. the Hebrew scriptures, b. the sayings of the Buddha, and c. Hesiod in Works and Days?

According to Buddha the reason for human suffering is due to one’s own selfish desires. Hebrew scriptures suggest people are the reason for their own suffering, due to disobeying God. According to Hesiod the creation of woman brought about suffering.

3. What is the covenant? (Clue: Gen. 12 and 15) How is it unique among the nations of Abraham's day? What is the relationship between the Abraham Covenant and the Mosaic Ten Commands of Exodus 20?

Based on Abraham’s obedience God promised Abraham that his descendents will have all the land from the river of Egypt to Euphrates. He also promised to make Abraham a great nation and bless the ones who bless Abraham and curse the ones who curse him and all the people on the earth would be blessed through him. God also promised Abraham a son from his own flesh because of his obedience and faithfulness.

The covenant is unique because it promises Israel that they would always have the Promised Land. The relationship between the two covenants is God’s promise to the people of Israel, the Abraham covenant being unconditional promise (unbreakable) and the Mosaic Commandments are conditional (must follow the rules to be blessed or break the rules and be cursed).

8. What were...