What social or historical circumstances prompted the author to write this text?

Students will write a 2-page report in their own words on their chosen books using the information provided in Sumney and in Bible Project videos. Each paper should address the following:

Authorship – Who wrote the text insofar as that can be known? What can be known about the author and how do we know it?

Date – When was the book written insofar as that can be known? What evidence suggests this date or date range? Describe in as much detail as possible what was going on in Israelite history and culture when this book was written.

Occasion – What social or historical circumstances prompted the author to write this text? What problems was Israel facing? What/who does the prophet criticize, praise, or encourage?

Purpose – What did the author intend to accomplish by writing this text?

Theological Themes – What are the main theological themes found in the text? How are they expressed (e.g., judgement oracles, visions, prophetic signs, etc.)? Be as specific as possible.