Instruction
In order to understand chronological issues stemming from absolute chronologies and possible solutions to these issues:
Define the terms absolute chronology and relative chronology.
Based on a synchronization of biblical events with Mesopotamian history, the capture of Shomron by Shalmeneser V must be dated to 722 BCE (cf. II Kings 18:9-10). Similarly, the death of Josiah at Megiddo took place in the 18th year of Nabopolassar, dated to 609 BCE (cf. II Kings 23: 29).On this basis determine the absolute dates for the accession year (=first year) of Hezekiah and the accession year of Josiah. Determine the number of years in this time period. Based on the lengths of the reigns of Hezekiah, Menasseh and Amon as recorded in Kings, determine the length of this period by relative chronology. What is the discrepancy between the absolute and relative chronologies? Which of the tools listed in Part Two can most easily account for the discrepancy?