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.

885 BC

King Zimri of Israel

Zimri was an official in the northern kingdom of Israel and commander of half of King Elah's chariots. He conspired against Elah and killed him while Elah was drinking in Tirzah. After taking the throne, Zimri destroyed the entire house of Baasha, fulfilling the judgment God had spoken through the prophet Jehu because of Baasha's sins and the idolatry he had continued in Israel.

Zimri's reign lasted only seven days. When the army of Israel heard that he had murdered the king, they made Omri commander of the army king over Israel. Omri besieged Tirzah, and when Zimri saw that the city was captured, he went into the king's house, set it on fire, and died in the flames. His brief reign shows the violence and instability that marked Israel's kingdom as it continued in the sins of Jeroboam and departed from the LORD.