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.

909 BC

King Baasha of Israel

Baasha was from the tribe of Issachar and became king over the northern kingdom of Israel after assassinating Nadab, the son of Jeroboam I. He then destroyed the entire house of Jeroboam, fulfilling the judgment God had spoken through the prophet Ahijah. Baasha reigned in Tirzah for 24 years and continued in the same sins as Jeroboam, leading Israel in false worship rather than turning the nation back to the LORD.

Though Baasha had been used to bring judgment on Jeroboam’s house, he was also judged for walking in the same wicked ways. The prophet Jehu, son of Hanani, spoke against him, declaring that Baasha’s house would fall just as Jeroboam’s had. During his reign, Baasha also fought against Asa king of Judah and tried to strengthen Ramah to control movement in and out of Judah. His life shows that carrying out judgment on another does not excuse one’s own disobedience before God.