An excellent tale of Biblical times, told in a magnificent style.
Plot
A tale of ancient Egypt is seen through the eyes of Sesostris, prince of Tyre, as he travels through the land. Each chapter is a letter, usually written by him to his mother as Sesostris forms a fast friendship with Remeses, prince of Egypt.
The years roll by and Sesostris becomes a witness to the miracles of God as He demands that the pharaoh of Egypt "let His people go".
Morality
Good and bad are separated throughout the tale. As fallen human beings, even the good characters have their struggles, but the laws of morality are always very clear.
Spiritual Content
The Egyptians worship their gods and goddesses (Ra, Isis, Osiris, etc.) while the Hebrews worship Jehovah (God). Sacrifices are performed to the Egyptian gods.
Violence
The miracles that God performs through Moses are, of course, detrimental to the Egyptians. The new pharaoh is a violent man, and there are references to the time when the old pharaoh demanded the death of the Hebrew children.
Drug and Alcohol Content
Wine and a kind of beer are drunk in places.
Sexual Content
None.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
At most, oaths are sworn to the Egyptian gods and to Jehovah, but there is no use of profane language.
Conclusion
"The Pillar of Fire" is an excellent telling of Biblical times. The style of writing, with each chapter a letter, is ingenious and brings the tale to life. Each of the characters is believable and Ingraham brings the world of the ancient Egyptians into an amazing light. Instead of blatantly retelling the narrative described in Exodus, Ingraham weaves the tale like an intricate web and draws the reader deeper into the spirit of the story.
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