Biblical History
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Names of Angels
What angels are mentioned by name in the Bible? Gabriel is mentioned in Daniel 8:16 and 9:21; Michael, in Daniel 10:13,21 and 12:1. Those are the only angels mentioned by name in the Bible. Of course, other angels are mentioned…
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Modim
Why do we use a female form ("lach") in Modim? "Modim anachnu lach" is used in Divrei ha-Yamim I 29:13. In Modern Hebrew "lecha" is masculine and "lach" is feminine, but it Biblical Hebrew "lach" can be masculine as well…
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The Days of Creation
What was created on each of the days of creation? The universe, including the heavens, the earth, and the waters, was created on the first day, but it was in a chaotic state. Things specifically mentioned as created on Days…
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Eve's Punishment
In what ways was Eve punished for her sin? The Talmud (Eiruvin 100b) says that Eve was punished in ten ways, including the discomforts of pregnancy, childbirth, and child care. Other sources (Avos d'R.Noson Ch.1) mention menstrual discomfort.
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Ishmael's Daughter
Was the name of Ishmael's daughter Machelas (Gen. 28:9) or Basemas (Gen. 36:3)? The Talmud (Yerushalmi, Bikkurim 3:3) says that the original name of Ishmael's daughter was Basemas, but she was renamed Machelas because all her sins were forgiven (from…
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Entering The Promised Land
When did Joshua enter Canaan? The Israelites entered Canaan in 2448 (1272 B.C.E.).
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Solomon's Throne
What was Solomon's throne like? Solomon's throne is briefly described in 2 Chronicles 9:17-18. It is described in detail in the Targum Sheni on Esther 1:2 and in various Midrashim.
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Nimrod's Death
Who killed Nimrod? According to the Targum Yonasan (on Gen.25:27) and the Midrash Bereishis Rabbah (on Gen.27:15), Nimrod was killed by Esau.
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The Golden Calf
When the Jews worshipped an idol at Mount Sinai, why did they choose to worship a golden calf? The calf symbolized Egypt; see Jeremiah 46:20.