Part 7/19:
Settlement in Canaan and the rise of a kingdom: The Jews established a unified kingdom under David and Solomon, later splitting into Israel and Judea. Monotheism matured during this period, marking one of the most significant transformations in Jewish history.
The Babylonian Captivity and Religious Consolidation
The cycle of societal decadence—stratification, corruption, and weakness—reached its peak with the destruction of Solomon’s Temple by Babylonians circa the 6th century BC. This event, known as the Babylonian captivity, was pivotal. Rather than despair, the Jewish people turned inward, solidifying their faith through Scripture and monotheism, setting the stage for their survival and resilience.