Old Testament studies is the academic exploration of the Hebrew Bible (or Old Testament), focusing on its texts, history, and religious significance. Scholars analyze books like Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, and Isaiah, investigating their literary forms, theological messages, and historical contexts. This field examines the origins and development of ancient Israelite religion, law, prophecy, and wisdom literature, contributing to the understanding of Jewish and Christian traditions. It often incorporates archaeology, linguistics, and comparative religion in its analysis.