Babylonian Conquest and the Destruction of the First Temple

Film Focus: This video intermixes dramatic reenactments with footage of the actual historical region to detail the siege and fall of Jerusalem and its first Temple. The video concludes with two archeologists discussing some of the amazing finds found when this region was excavated in modern times.

Text Focus: Pages 338-343

Discussion Questions:

1. What do you think Nebuchadnezzar hoped to gain by destroying Jerusalem, and in particular, the Temple?
2. How was food used to besiege Jerusalem? Is the availability of food ever used in modern warfare? If so, how? (Think of both positive and negatives ways it can be used).
3. Was it a courageous or cowardly act for King Zedekiah of Judah and his men to flee the city? Defend your answer.
4. What are some things that were discovered when the ancient city of Jerusalem was excavated? What might these things have to teach us about the people of this time?
5. What is the significance to the people of Jerusalem and the Jewish people today of the destruction of the Temple?

*Ave Maria Press has requested permission to link to this video for use in the classroom as part of the accompanying lesson. If for any reason, the producer does not wish this video to be included on this site, Ave Maria Press will remove it posthaste.