The idea of matter as the basis of everything may seem beyond question. But a solely material view of the world doesn’t fill the enduring human need to understand why we’re here and what it all signifies.

Freed from Babylonian captivity, some exiled Jews returned to rebuild Jerusalem. The books of Ezra and Nehemiah detail their story.

The book of Lamentations, though not often cited, serves as a microcosm of the human story.

Hoping to strengthen his people’s sense of identity, an anonymous chronicler documents their backstory.

Six remaining books round out the section of the Bible known as “the Prophets.” Their messages are diverse; yet, like the other prophetic writings, they share some common themes.