2.0 The Geographical
and Historical Setting
for the Old Testament Prior
to 1200 B.C.E. 
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(Last revised: 9/18/01)
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2.1 The Fertile Cresent
1. Describe the Fertile Cresent and the areas
it covers.
2.2 Mesopotamia
2.2.1 3000 to 2000 B.C.E.
2.2.1.1 The Sumerians
1. Describe the Sumerians as to origin, location
and cultural significance.
2.2.1.2 The Akkadians
1. Describe the Akkadians as to origin, location
and cultural significance.
2.2.2 2000 to 1500 B.C.E.
2.2.2.1 The Amorites (Arameans)
1. Describe the Amorites as to origin, location
and cultural significance.
2.2.2.2 The Hurrians
1. Describe the Hurrians as to origin, location
and cultural significance.
2.2.3 1500 to 1000 B.C.E.
2.2.3.1 Arameans and Habiru
1. Describe the Arameans as to origin, location
and cultural significance.
2. Explain the difference between the terms
'Arameans' and 'Habiru.'
2.3 Asia Minor
2.3.1 The Hittites
1. Describe the Hittites as to origin, location
and cultural significance.
2.4 Egypt
1. Define the importance of the Nile River
for ancient Egypt.
2.4.1 3000 to 2000 B.C.E.
2.4.2 2000 to 1000 B.C.E.
1. Describe the Hyksos and their possible
connection to the Israelites.
2.5 Syria-Phoenicia
2.5.1 3000 to 2000 B.C.E.
1. Summarize why Ebla has been in the news
in recent years.
2.5.2 2000 to 1000 B.C.E.
1. Summarize the history and significance
of the city of Ugarit for Hebrew Bible studies.
2. Describe the importance of the Ras Shamra
texts for Hebrew Bible studies, using internet resources (go to www.search.com,
then type in Ras Shamra in
the search for box).
2.6 Palestine
2.6.1 Its Importance
2.6.2 Geographical Features
1. Describe the four major divisions of Palestine
going West to East.
2. Summarize why the Jordan River was of little
positive importance during the Old Testament era.
2.6.3 Major Roads
1. Summarize the location, various names,
and importance of the Via Maris.
2. Summarize the location and importance of
the King's Highway.
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