Pentatuech Flashcards
What are the first five books of the Holy Bible?
Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
They are known as the “Pentateuch” and in Hebrew as “Torah” which means “The Law” or “Instructions.”
What are other names used for the Pentateuch?
The Law and The Law of Moses.
What four theological traditions contributed to the writing of the Pentateuch?
Yahwist (J), Elohist (E), Deuteronomist (D), and Priestly (P).
What is the Yahwist Tradition (J)?
This tradition uses the name ‘Yahweh’ for God and has a storytelling literary style.
What are some stories belonging to the Yahwist Tradition?
Second creation story (Genesis 2:4b-25), Adam and Eve (Genesis 3), Cain and Abel (Genesis 4).
How does the Yahwist Tradition depict God’s relationship with man?
In an anthropomorphic way, showing a close relationship, e.g., God asking man where he is (Genesis 3:9).
What is the Elohist Tradition (E)?
In this tradition, God is called ‘Elohim’ and is depicted as all-powerful and distant from man.
How does God reveal Himself in the Elohist Tradition?
By means of dreams, visions, and angels.
Example: God said to Moses, “Come no closer. Remove the sandals from your feet for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” (Ex. 3:5)
What is the literary style of the Elohist Tradition?
Straight, brief, and without explanations.
What is the Deuteronomist Tradition (D)?
This tradition is instructive and limited to the Book of Deuteronomy.
What does the Deuteronomist Tradition emphasize?
One must be faithful to the covenant and worship only one God (Dt. 6:4-6).
What is the Priestly Tradition (P)?
This tradition focuses on God as all-powerful and deals with religious practices, liturgy, and priestly life.
What are some examples from the Priestly Tradition?
The first creation story (Genesis 1:1-2:4a) and the Covenant with Noah (Genesis 9:1-17).
What does the Priestly Tradition teach about the Sabbath?
God created the world in six days and rested on the 7th day, hence the Sabbath day should be kept holy.
What is the importance of the Pentateuch?
It contains various theological themes emphasizing the worship of one God, the creator and savior of the universe.
What role did God play in the history of Israel according to the Pentateuch?
God chose Israel for salvation and brought them back to the promised land from slavery in Egypt.
What does the Pentateuch teach about obedience to God?
It guides weak human beings through law and blesses the faithful with graces.
