Timeline of Old Testament Events

Our Old Testament timeline offers believers a valuable roadmap for navigating the vast and storied landscape of Scripture’s earliest narratives. By situating key events and figures in a clear chronological framework, we gain fresh perspective on how God orchestrated His redemptive plan through eras of creation, covenants, conquests, and captivity. This method of studying Scripture shines light on the divine thread tying together everything from Adam’s first breath in Eden to the return of God’s people from Babylonian exile. As we trace these pivotal moments in order, we discover not only a cohesive story of humanity’s struggle and redemption, but also an ongoing revelation of God’s steadfast faithfulness, His eternal wisdom, and His enduring desire to dwell among His people.

853 BC

King Jehoram of Judah

Jehoram was the son of Jehoshaphat and became king of Judah after him. Unlike his father, Jehoram did not walk faithfully with the LORD. After becoming king, he killed his brothers and followed the ways of the kings of Israel, because he had married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab. Scripture says that he did evil in the sight of the LORD, yet God did not destroy the house of David because of the covenant He had made with David.

During Jehoram’s reign, Edom and Libnah rebelled against Judah, showing the weakness and decline of his kingdom. Elijah the prophet sent him a written message of judgment because he had led Judah into idolatry and murdered his brothers. Jehoram later suffered a severe disease and died in dishonor. Though he was buried in Jerusalem, he was not buried in the tombs of the kings. His reign is remembered as a tragic warning about pride, wicked influence, and departing from the LORD.