The Historical Books (Joshua–Esther)

This Sacred Scripture course traces the history of Israel from the conquest of Canaan through the monarchy and periods of crisis, emphasizing the relationship between covenant fidelity and the flourishing of God’s people. Students study the Books of Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings, with brief attention to Tobit, Judith, and Esther, using close reading, Socratic discussions, written and oral reflections, and connections to theology and salvation history. Through these narratives, students consider the virtues and failures of Israel’s leaders and people and the consequences of their choices. The course emphasizes God’s providential guidance through leaders, kings, and prophets, even amid human failure, and invites students to see these narratives not merely as accounts of the past but as part of the great biblical story of God’s action in history and His call to His people.