* The Journey of the Israelites: The novel traces the journey of the Henry family through the tumultuous years of the Civil War. Their struggle for survival and their moral choices echo the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness, a common theme in American literature. This idea is further reinforced by the presence of the Old Testament itself in the novel, used by the characters to seek guidance and comfort.
* The Book of Job: Jethro's suffering and resilience throughout the war mirrors the trials faced by Job in the biblical book. His steadfast faith in God and his refusal to curse despite hardships parallel the themes of perseverance and resilience in Job's story.
* The Sermon on the Mount: The pacifist themes of the novel, particularly Jethro's unwavering belief in nonviolence despite the atrocities of war, find parallels in the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. This is particularly evident in Jethro's decision to stay on his farm and refuse to join the Confederate Army despite the risks involved.
It's important to note that while these allusions are not explicit, they work subtly to enrich the story's themes and provide a deeper understanding of the characters' struggles and choices. They contribute to the novel's exploration of faith, resilience, and the complexities of war.