teachers have each interpreted his character and work in keeping with their distinctive ideals.  Each individual narrative has an independent unity and the connection between the different accounts is far from close.  Some of them aim to explain the derivation of popular names, as for example, Abraham, Isaac, and Ishmael, the sanctity of certain sacred places, as for example, Beersheba, the origin of important institutions, as for example, circumcision and the substitution of animal for human sacrifice, and the explanation of striking physical phenomena, as for example the desolate shores of the Dead Sea.

Some of these accounts, like the table of nations in Genesis 10, preserve the memory of the relationship between Israel and its neighbors.  They preserve also the characteristic popular record of the early migrations which brought these peoples to Palestine, where they crystalized into the different nations that figure in the drama of Israel’s history.  The permanent and universal value of these stories lies, however, in the great moral principles which they vividly and effectively illustrate.  The prophetic portrait of Abraham was an inspiring example to hold up before a race.  The characteristics of Abraham can be traced in the ideals and character of the Israelites.  They were unquestionably an important force in developing the prophet nation.  He was, therefore, pre-eminently a spiritual pioneer.  How far do these stories, and especially the accounts of the covenant between Jehovah and Abraham, embody the national and spiritual aspirations of the race?  Are the Abraham stories of practical inspiration to the present generation?  What qualities in his character are essential to the all-around man of any age?  How far would the Abraham of the prophetic stories succeed, were he living in America to-day?  Would he be appreciated by a majority of our citizens?  Are spiritual pioneers of the type of Abraham absolutely needed in every nation and generation if the human race is to progress?

Questions for Further Consideration.

Are God’s purposes often contrary to man’s desires?  Ever to man’s best interests?

What qualities must every true pioneer possess?

What is the ultimate basis of all true politeness?

Who are some of the great pioneers of early American history?  What were their chief contributions to their nation?

Is your own conscientious conception of your duty to be considered as God’s command to you?  Does he give any other command?

Does a high stage of civilization ennoble character or tend to degrade it?

Subjects for Further Study.

(1) Abraham in Late Jewish Tradition.  Hastings, Dict.  Bib.  I, 16, 17, Ginsberg, The Legends of the Jews, I, pp. 185-308.

(2) The Geological History of the Dead Sea Valley.  Hastings, Dict.  Bib.  I, 575-7; Encyc.  Bib.  I, 1042-6; Kent, Bib.  Geog. and Hist., 45-54; Smith, Hist.  Geography, 499-516.