Explore the conclusion of Genesis and the beginning of Exodus in this 46-minute lecture from Yale University's "Introduction to the Old Testament" course. Delve into the story of Joseph and the descent of the 12 tribes into Egypt, setting the stage for the Exodus narrative. Examine the portrayal of God as redeemer and liberator, and Moses' role as the first apostolic prophet. Investigate the origins of Yahwism and consider Mark Smith's thesis on the emergence of Israelite religion through convergence and divergence. Analyze key topics including Jacob's name change, the significance of the 12 sons of Jacob, Moses' birth story and early life, various descriptions of God in the Bible, and alternative models for understanding the development of Israelite religion.