This book presents a plethora of perspectives on the phenomenon of kingship and state in the Bible and in history. Considered here are important parts of Old Testament literature, i.e. the Pentateuch, Deuteronomistic history, prophecy, and wisdom. Accordingly, the time span dealt with is quite broad, ranging from the pre-Monarchic era up until Hellenism. In addition, some contributions - reaching far beyond the boundary of the Old Testament - are presented, engaging thoroughly the archaeology of the "Holy Land," as well as the Ancient Near Eastern and Hellenistic context of the Old Testament. The Septuagint and the New Testament, repeatedly consulted in the book, turn attention to the questions of the history of reception. The book is based on an international symposium held in April 2014 in Prague. Of the 21 contributions, 15 are presented in English, while 6 more are in German language text. (Series: Contributions to Understanding the Bible / Beitrage zum Verstehen der Bibel - Vol. 28) Subject: Religious Studies, Biblical Studies, History]