There are six major historical periods that shape the books of the First Testament: These periods later influence the writings of the First Testament.

The Patriarchs (1859-1250 BCE): Migration movements brings Abraham to centre stage in his journey from the Fertile Crescent into the land of the Canaanites. Egypt is a dominant power, though other powers arise: Persians, Assyrians and Babylonians.

Exodus (1250-1130 BCE): Moses appears as the great leader and unites the diverse people of the Israelites. The story associated with this period is found the Books of Exodus, Numbers, Deuteronomy and Joshua. God forms a covenant with the desert-wandering Israelites, arriving finally in the land of the Canaanites. How this happens is open to interpretation--rather than immediate conquest, perhaps gradual assimilation and peaceful settlement.

Judges (1130-1020 BCE): Charismatic leaders ("Judges") organise a loose confederation of tribes. God is the only "King" and aversion to monarchy grows.

Monarchy (1120-587 BCE): Transition towards monarchical institution with Saul (1020-1000 BCE), David (1000-960 BCE) and Solomon (960-930 BCE). Solomon over taxes the tribes and dishonors past loyalties. Division results under Rehoboam and a split into two Kingdoms: North (Israel) and the South (Judah). Assyria crushes the northern Kingdom in 724 BCE. The south is invaded by Babylon in 587 BCE, Jerusalem falls and Solomon's Temple destroyed.

Exile and Return (587-332 BCE): Exile in Babylon by the Jewish Jerusalem elite ushers in serious reflection and Torah integration. The return to Jerusalem under the Persian king, Cyrus, leads them to those who remained considered suspect and corrupt. Tensions emerge between Jews and Samaritans. Ezra and Nehemiah rebuild the Temple. Israel is fragile.

The Greek Conquest and Rise of Hasmoneans (332-39 BCE): Greek conquest by Alexander the Great in 332 BCE. Greek culture is imposed. On Alexander's death, Greek empire is divided between two family powers: Seleucids (ruled Syria) and Ptolemies (Egypt, Palestine). Seleucids take over the rule of Palestine and impose taxation and rigorous Greek culture. Revolt occurs by the Maccabees. Hasmoneans now rule for 100 years. Pharisees and Essenes emerge in reaction to the corrupt Hasmonean rule supported by a Jerusalem aristocracy. Rome intervenes and plants Herod as regal vassal of Rome.