Publication Date

Fall 11-30-2025

School

School of Divinity

Major

Religion: Biblical Studies; Religion: Pastoral Ministries

Keywords

Genesis Narratives, Chronicles, Chronicler, Post-Exilic Identity, Biblical Intertextuality, Covenant Theology, Adamic Covenant, Davidic Covenant, Creation Theology, Post-Exilic Restoration

Disciplines

Biblical Studies | Christianity | Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion | Translation Studies

Abstract

This thesis examines the Chronicler’s (the unknown author to whom biblical scholars have attributed the composition of: the Book of Chronicles, the Book of Ezra, and the Book of Nehemiah to) use of Genesis narratives—namely the Covenant of Works—in the formation of the social, political, and religious identity of post-exilic Israel. By using a covenant-theological and intertextual approach with special attention to the Septuagint, this study demonstrates that the Chronicler does not merely retell Israel’s history but deliberately reinterprets it according to theology established in creation. The analysis begins with Genesis 1–3, where Adam’s federal headship and the blessing–curse logic of the Covenant of Works establishes the covenantal structure of human existence. This serves as background for the Chronicler’s introduction of David and Solomon as “new Adams” commissioned to guard sacred space, mediate blessing, and build a temple that reimagines Eden. The Chronicler’s theology of immediate retribution, in which obedience leads to prosperity and disobedience equals curse, further reflects Genesis’ covenantal logic. Temple and land are also presented as restored Eden, with exile understood as covenantal expulsion.

The thesis argues that by tracing genealogies from Adam to the post-exilic community, the Chronicler situates Israel as corporate Adam, retelling humanity’s calling and disobedience. But in such narratives of repentance (e.g., Manasseh) and the open-ended final conclusion with Cyrus’s decree, the Chronicler looks forward to eschatological hope. Lastly, the thesis argues that the Chronicler’s engagement with Genesis foreshadows Christ as the last Adam, true David, and eternal temple. By the integrating Covenant Theology, Septuagint exegesis, and intertextual analysis, this thesis demonstrates the theological unity of Scripture and provides the foundation for further study in biblical theology and covenantal identity.

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