I told the students the story of the Battle of Qarqar, omitting the Israelite king involved in the fighting (Ahab). I then asked the students to compile a brief but imaginative historical profile on this king based on these Assyrian records.
- What would life under this king be like for Israel for security? military service? cultic options?
- Would this king enjoyed divine favor?
Then upon revealing to the students this victorious king was Ahab, I asked why the Bible’s portrayal differs from the Assyrian record?
This activity was very successful. The students began to understand and articulate the Bible’s purpose in including (or excluding) facts about a king.
