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Quizzes > Society & Culture

Bible IQ Test: Old Testament Trivia

Quick, free Old Testament quiz to test your knowledge. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Dan FisherUpdated Aug 25, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for Old Testament trivia quiz on coral background

This Bible IQ Test helps you check your Old Testament knowledge with quick questions on books, people, and key stories. See where you are strong, learn what you missed, and try a focused Exodus test if you want a deeper dive. When you finish, compare with a free Bible quiz to broaden your practice or switch gears with a New Testament quiz.

What is the first book of the Old Testament?
Leviticus
Exodus
Genesis
Psalms
The Old Testament begins with Genesis, which details the creation of the world, early human history, and the patriarchs. It is the first of the five books of the Torah or Pentateuch in the Hebrew Bible. Genesis covers foundational events such as Adam and Eve, Noah's Ark, and the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
How many books are there in the Protestant Old Testament?
50
27
39
66
The Protestant Old Testament comprises 39 books, divided into the Law, History, Poetry, and Prophets. The New Testament adds another 27 books, totaling 66 in the Christian Bible. Other traditions, like the Catholic and Orthodox, include additional deuterocanonical books.
What is the primary language in which the Old Testament was written?
Aramaic
Greek
Latin
Hebrew
Most of the Old Testament was composed in Biblical Hebrew. Portions of Daniel and Ezra are written in Biblical Aramaic, which was a common lingua franca in the Near East. Greek and Latin were used later for translations, like the Septuagint and the Vulgate.
Who is credited with building the ark in the Old Testament?
Noah
Moses
David
Abraham
According to Genesis, God instructed Noah to build an ark to save his family and two of every kind of animal from the flood. Noah's faithfulness in carrying out this command is a central theme of the narrative. The ark symbolizes salvation and obedience in biblical theology.
Where did Moses receive the Ten Commandments?
Mount Carmel
Mount Zion
Mount Ararat
Mount Sinai
Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, a pivotal event recorded in Exodus. The commandments formed a covenant between God and Israel and set moral and religious laws. Sinai plays a crucial role as the place of revelation.
Who was the first murder victim in the Old Testament?
Cain
Seth
Enoch
Abel
Abel was killed by his brother Cain out of jealousy, as recounted in Genesis. This event represents the first act of violence among humans. The story highlights themes of sin, responsibility, and God's justice.
Jacob had how many sons who became the tribes of Israel?
14
12
7
10
Jacob, later named Israel, fathered twelve sons with his wives Leah, Rachel, and their handmaids. These sons became the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribes play a major role throughout the Old Testament narrative.
In which book of the Old Testament is the story of David and Goliath found?
2 Samuel
1 Kings
Judges
1 Samuel
The battle between David and Goliath is narrated in 1 Samuel 17. David, then a young shepherd, defeats the giant Philistine warrior Goliath with a sling and a stone. This story highlights themes of faith and God's empowerment of the humble.
Which body of water did the Israelites cross to escape Egypt?
Sea of Galilee
Dead Sea
Red Sea
Mediterranean Sea
Exodus recounts that Moses parted the waters of the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground and escape Egypt's pursuing army. This miraculous event symbolizes deliverance and God's saving power.
Who succeeded Moses as leader of the Israelites?
Aaron
Joshua
Gideon
Caleb
After Moses' death, Joshua was appointed by God to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The Book of Joshua details his military campaigns and the division of the land among the tribes.
What is the name of the garden where Adam and Eve lived?
Golgotha
Patmos
Eden
Gethsemane
The Garden of Eden is described in Genesis as the paradisiacal home God created for Adam and Eve. It contained the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Eden represents the ideal harmony between God, humans, and nature before the Fall.
What was Abraham's name before God changed it?
Abijah
Absalom
Abram
Abimelech
God changed Abram's name to Abraham in Genesis 17 as part of the covenant promise that he would be the father of many nations. The name Abraham means 'father of a multitude.' This renaming signifies Abraham's new role and destiny.
At Mount Carmel, the prophet Elijah confronted the prophets of which deity?
Molech
Dagon
Asherah
Baal
In 1 Kings 18, Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel to prove who was the true God. Baal was a major Canaanite deity associated with storms and fertility. Elijah's victory reaffirmed Yahweh's sovereignty over Israel.
Which prophet was swallowed by a great fish after fleeing God's command to go to Nineveh?
Jonah
Elijah
Nahum
Micah
Jonah attempted to flee from God's instruction to preach repentance to Nineveh and was thrown overboard during a storm. He was swallowed by a great fish, where he spent three days and nights before being delivered. The story emphasizes God's mercy and the call to repentance.
Who anointed David as king over Israel?
Eli
Nathan
Samuel
Gideon
God sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint David, the youngest son of Jesse, as king, after rejecting Saul. This anointing signified David's divine election and set the stage for his rise to the throne. Samuel played a key role as prophet and judge in Israel's transition to monarchy.
What request did Solomon ask from God when He appeared to him in a dream?
Wealth
Wisdom
Military victory
Long life
Solomon famously asked God for wisdom to govern Israel and distinguish between right and wrong. God granted this request and also gave him wealth and honor, making him renowned for his judgment. This story highlights the value of wisdom in leadership.
Which book of the Old Testament is a collection of songs, prayers, and poems?
Song of Solomon
Ecclesiastes
Proverbs
Psalms
The Book of Psalms contains 150 individual psalms used in worship, personal devotion, and liturgy. It covers themes ranging from praise and thanksgiving to lament and penitence. Many psalms are attributed to David and other worship leaders.
Nebuchadnezzar was king of which ancient empire in the Old Testament?
Assyria
Babylon
Egypt
Persia
Nebuchadnezzar II ruled the Neo-Babylonian Empire and is noted for the conquest of Jerusalem, subsequent exile of the Jews, and construction projects like the Hanging Gardens. He appears in the books of Daniel, Jeremiah, and 2 Kings. His reign marked a significant period in Jewish history.
The Book of Job primarily explores which central theme?
Conquest of Canaan
Suffering and faithfulness
Creation
Wisdom and folly
Job's story grapples with the problem of innocent suffering and the nature of faithfulness to God under trial. The dialogues between Job and his friends explore human responses to suffering. Ultimately, God addresses Job's questions, emphasizing divine sovereignty.
Who was Jacob's twin, known for selling his birthright?
Simeon
Levi
Esau
Reuben
Esau, Jacob's elder twin, sold his birthright for a meal of lentil stew, showing disregard for his inheritance. This transaction had long-term implications for the leadership and blessing of the family. The story is found in Genesis 25.
Which city was the primary setting for the prophet Isaiah's ministry?
Jerusalem
Babylon
Nineveh
Samaria
Isaiah ministered in Jerusalem during the 8th century BCE, addressing the kings of Judah about impending judgment and future hope. His prophecies include messages of warning, consolation, and the coming Messiah. Isaiah's influence extends into the New Testament.
Which tribe was set apart for the priesthood in Israel?
Ephraim
Benjamin
Judah
Levi
The tribe of Levi was designated by God to serve as priests and caretakers of the Tabernacle (and later the Temple). Descendants of Aaron, Moses' brother, performed sacrifices and led worship. This distinction is outlined in Exodus and Leviticus.
The Book of Ruth primarily takes place in which foreign land?
Egypt
Moab
Assyria
Philistia
After a famine in Israel, Naomi's family settles in Moab, where Ruth, her Moabite daughter-in-law, chooses to follow Naomi back to Bethlehem. The narrative highlights loyalty, providence, and the lineage of King David.
In which book does the prophet Ezekiel describe the 'Valley of Dry Bones' vision?
Daniel
Ezekiel
Habakkuk
Joel
Ezekiel's vision in chapter 37 of dry bones coming to life symbolizes restoration for Israel after exile. The vision reassures the exiles of God's power to revive their nation. It is a key prophecy of hope and renewal.
Which Old Testament book is attributed to Solomon and contains philosophical reflections on the meaning of life?
Job
Ecclesiastes
Proverbs
Nehemiah
Ecclesiastes, traditionally ascribed to Solomon, explores themes such as the futility of worldly pursuits and the search for purpose. It emphasizes that true meaning is found in reverence for God rather than earthly achievements. The opening phrase 'Vanity of vanities' sets the tone for its philosophical discourse.
Who was the last judge of Israel before the establishment of the monarchy?
Samuel
Deborah
Gideon
Eli
Samuel served as the final judge, guiding Israel and anointing the first two kings, Saul and David. His leadership marked the transition from tribal judges to a centralized monarchy. His narratives appear in 1 Samuel.
Which prophet is traditionally credited with writing the Book of Lamentations?
Daniel
Jeremiah
Isaiah
Ezekiel
Lamentations is traditionally ascribed to Jeremiah, reflecting on the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE. Its five poems express grief, confession, and hope in God's mercy. The style and historical context align with Jeremiah's ministry.
What is the Hebrew term for the first five books of the Old Testament?
Ketuvim
Torah
Nevi'im
Pentateuch
Torah, meaning 'instruction' or 'law,' refers to the first five books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Pentateuch is a Greek term for the same collection, while Nevi'im and Ketuvim are subsequent sections of the Hebrew Bible.
Which minor prophet's book is the shortest in the Hebrew Bible?
Haggai
Joel
Nahum
Obadiah
Obadiah consists of a single chapter and focuses on the judgment of Edom. It is the shortest book in the Hebrew Bible. Despite its brevity, it addresses themes of divine justice and restoration.
The Shema, a central declaration of faith in Judaism, is found in which book?
Leviticus
Exodus
Deuteronomy
Numbers
The Shema ('Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one') is found in Deuteronomy 6:4. It is recited daily in Jewish prayers and emphasizes God's unity. Deuteronomy contains Moses' final speeches to Israel.
Which king built the first Temple in Jerusalem?
Saul
Solomon
David
Rehoboam
Solomon, David's son, built the first Temple in Jerusalem as described in 1 Kings 6. This temple became the central place of worship for Israel and housed the Ark of the Covenant. Solomon's construction fulfilled David's vision.
The Nephilim are mentioned in which chapter of Genesis?
Genesis 5
Genesis 6
Genesis 4
Genesis 7
Genesis 6:1 - 4 mentions the Nephilim, described as the offspring of 'sons of God' and 'daughters of men.' Their identity and nature have been widely debated in biblical scholarship. This passage sets the stage for the Flood narrative.
Who was the youngest king to begin his reign in Judah at age eight?
Manasseh
Hezekiah
Amaziah
Josiah
Josiah became king of Judah at age eight after the death of his father Amon. His reign is noted for religious reforms and temple restoration in 2 Kings 22 - 23. Josiah's youthful devotion to God stands out in the biblical narrative.
What does the name 'Israel' literally mean in Hebrew?
God is salvation
He struggles with God
Beloved of God
Servant of God
The name Israel is derived from Hebrew roots meaning 'he struggles with God' or 'he who strives with God,' referring to Jacob's encounter with a divine being in Genesis 32:28. It became the name for Jacob's descendants.
In which book is the covenant of salt mentioned as a symbol of enduring agreement?
Joshua
Leviticus
Numbers
Judges
Numbers 18:19 refers to the 'covenant of salt' between the priests and God, symbolizing a perpetual, unbreakable agreement. Salt was valued for preservation, making it an apt metaphor for enduring covenants.
Which Old Testament book contains the vision of four beasts representing successive empires?
Ezekiel
Daniel
Zechariah
Jeremiah
Daniel 7 describes a vision of four great beasts rising from the sea, symbolizing successive empires. Daniel's apocalyptic imagery influenced later prophetic literature. The chapter explores themes of divine sovereignty over human history.
What is the literal meaning of the Hebrew name 'Immanuel' as used in Isaiah?
God is salvation
God is mighty
God is our peace
God with us
Immanuel, mentioned in Isaiah 7:14, literally means 'God with us.' It is interpreted as a sign of divine presence and future deliverance. The name carries messianic significance in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
According to Malachi, on which chapter is the prophecy that a messenger will prepare the way before the 'day of the Lord'?
Chapter 1
Chapter 4
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Malachi 3:1 prophesies that God will send a messenger to prepare the way before the Lord's coming. This passage links Old Testament expectation with New Testament fulfillment in John the Baptist. Malachi's positioning at the end of the Hebrew canon underscores its eschatological focus.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify Major Old Testament Figures -

    Recognize patriarchs, prophets, and key characters featured in our Old Testament trivia quiz.

  2. Analyze Pivotal Biblical Events -

    Sequence and interpret events like Creation, the Exodus, and the siege of Jerusalem through challenging quiz questions.

  3. Apply Scriptural Knowledge -

    Match passages to their respective books and contextualize verses using carefully crafted Old Testament quiz questions.

  4. Evaluate Quiz Performance -

    Gauge your Bible IQ, review correct answers, and identify areas for further study in this engaging Bible trivia quiz.

  5. Explore Fascinating Facts -

    Discover surprising details from psalms, prophecies, and narratives across the Old Testament trivia quiz.

  6. Strengthen Biblical Literacy -

    Reinforce your understanding of themes and narratives from Genesis to the minor prophets in the Scripture quiz.

Cheat Sheet

  1. TaNaK: The Threefold Structure -

    The Old Testament trivia often starts with TaNaK, the Hebrew acronym for Torah (Law), Nevi'im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings). Remember "Tank" to keep the three divisions in order and ace any Old Testament quiz questions about book categories. According to university biblical studies, this structure underpins most modern Bible quiz formats.

  2. The Pentateuch's Foundational Narratives -

    Genesis through Deuteronomy form the Pentateuch, covering creation, the flood, the exodus, and the giving of the Law. Use the mnemonic "Gentle Elephants Limp, Never Dancing" to recall Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy in the correct sequence. Scholarly sources at major divinity schools highlight these five books as the core for many Old Testament quiz and Bible trivia quiz questions.

  3. Key Covenants: Noah, Abraham, Moses, David -

    Four covenants drive Old Testament themes: Noah (rainbow), Abraham (circumcision), Moses (Torah), and David (everlasting throne). For your next Scripture quiz, remember 1︝⃣ Noah, 2︝⃣ Abraham, 3︝⃣ Moses, 4︝⃣ David to trace God's unfolding plan. Academic commentaries note that understanding these covenants is crucial for high scores on Old Testament trivia.

  4. Major vs. Minor Prophets -

    There are four Major Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel) and twelve Minor Prophets like Hosea and Malachi. Memorize the phrase "Four Big, Twelve Small" or the quirky acrostic "Harry Jams A Old Jazz Melody Near Hazy Zephyrs" to line up Hosea - Malachi. Leading theological journals confirm that distinguishing major/minor prophets is a staple in any Bible quiz challenge.

  5. Wisdom Literature & Acrostic Psalms -

    Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon form the Wisdom books; Psalm 119 even uses 22 alphabetical stanzas in Hebrew. Test your memory by noting that Psalm 119 has 176 verses - 8 per Hebrew letter - and appears often in Bible trivia quizzes. Scholarly repositories applaud this acrostic pattern as an excellent study point for Old Testament quiz takers.

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