We grow up thinking, because we are taught this, that the Bible is interpreted by our religious traditions as an accurate reflection of the intention and meaning of the stories’ authors. A critical reflection on the context of the text will often reveal to us that the meaning of the stories is often simpler, often more complex…but, quite often different than what our religions would want us to believe. I find these differences to be fascinating, and very challenging to our notions of ancient history (especially of ancient Israel and Judah), the growth and meaning of later religions that grew from these texts, and the often existential engagement that we are forced to consider…it’s a fun journey…I hope you are engaged by it.