History of the People of Israel

History of the People of Israel is a major historical and critical work by the French scholar Ernest Renan, published in several volumes between 1887 and 1893. In this book, Renan attempts to reconstruct the history of the ancient Israelites from their earliest origins to the end of antiquity. The work is based primarily on the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), but Renan treats biblical texts as historical and literary documents rather than sacred, infallible records. He applies the methods of historical criticism, philology, and comparative studies to distinguish between myth, religious tradition, and plausible historical facts. Renan explores the political, social, and religious evolution of the Israelites, emphasizing the role of prophets, the development of monotheism, and the impact of exile and foreign rule on Jewish identity. The book reflects the intellectual climate of the 19th century and was influential, though controversial, for its rational and secular approach to sacred history. Renan became one of the leading figures in the study of Semitic languages and religions in the 19th century. He taught at the Collège de France and was a member of the Académie française. His works are characterized by their elegant literary style and their application of scientific and historical methods to religious subjects. Among his most famous books are Life of Jesus (1863), History of the Origins of Christianity, and History of the People of Israel. Renan is remembered for his influential ideas on religion, nationalism, and history, as well as for his role in advancing modern biblical criticism in Europe.