IV. THE TIME OF JOSHUA. 63. Capture and Destruction of Jericho 64. Capture of Ai and Stratagem of the Gibeonites 65. Further Conquests in Canaan 336 339 354 . 364 112. Elijah and the Priests of Baal 113. Flight of Elijah; Elisha appointed as his Successor 118. Elijah's Disappearance and the first Miracles of Elisha 159. The Time of Alexander the Great (332—323) 160. Egyptian and Syrian Dominion (323-164) INTRODUCTION. THE HEBREW BIBLE sets forth mainly the history of the Israelites. It relates their origin, their growth, and their decline, from the earliest days until the time when, returning as released captives from a foreign land, they attempted to establish a new commonwealth, which, in its turn, was destroyed by powerful conquerors. But the Bible shows also, how the Israelites were instructed and led by God, were elected to receive from Him eternal truths, and singled out to disseminate them throughout the earth. Therefore, it speaks of God's wisdom, mercy, and power, and points out how He watches and rules over individuals and nations. Thus it has become the Book for all ages and for all mankind. It presents the most beautiful examples of faith, meekness, obedience, and courage. The laws of Moses are more just, more merciful, and better fitted to promote virtue and happiness than those framed by any other nation of antiquity. The poetry which graces the pages of the Bible has lost. none of its freshness and beauty in the thousands of years that have rolled by since it was first written; it has still the power of stirring up our deepest feelings; it still affords delight and consolation. And the impassioned works of the prophets, so noble in thought and so fervid in language, remain as imperishable monuments of piety and holy zeal. Thus distinguished by everything that |