Second Temple Judaism

Definition

Second Temple Judaism refers to the religious and cultural practices of the Jewish people from the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem in 516 BCE until its destruction in 70 CE. This period is marked by significant developments in Jewish thought, including the emergence of various sects, apocalyptic beliefs, and increased interactions with Hellenistic culture, which played a crucial role in shaping the foundations of both the Bible and Quran.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second Temple Judaism was characterized by a diverse array of beliefs and practices, including different sects like the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes.
2. This period saw the rise of apocalyptic literature, which emphasized themes of divine intervention and the hope for future redemption.
3. The Second Temple itself became a central symbol of Jewish identity and religious life, serving as the focal point for worship and sacrifice.
4. Many texts that would later be included in both the Bible and Quran were written during this time, reflecting evolving theological ideas and cultural influences.
5. The destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans in 70 CE marked a significant turning point, leading to shifts in Jewish practice and belief that paved the way for Rabbinic Judaism.

Review Questions

• How did the diverse sects of Second Temple Judaism contribute to its religious landscape?
  • The diverse sects of Second Temple Judaism, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes, each contributed unique interpretations and practices that shaped Jewish religious life. The Pharisees focused on oral traditions and legal interpretations, while the Sadducees adhered strictly to written law and were often aligned with Hellenistic authorities. The Essenes, known for their ascetic lifestyle, produced significant apocalyptic texts. This variety of beliefs fostered rich theological discussions that influenced both early Christianity and later Judaism.
• Discuss how apocalyptic literature from Second Temple Judaism reflects broader cultural interactions during this time.
  • Apocalyptic literature from Second Temple Judaism reflects significant cultural interactions between Jewish thought and Hellenistic influences. As Jews faced foreign rule and socio-political upheaval, apocalyptic texts expressed a longing for divine intervention and justice. The incorporation of Hellenistic literary styles into these writings illustrates how Jewish authors responded to their cultural environment while also preserving their unique religious identity. This blending of ideas not only shaped Jewish eschatology but also impacted early Christian beliefs.
• Evaluate the impact of the destruction of the Second Temple on Jewish identity and practice in subsequent centuries.
  • The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE had profound effects on Jewish identity and practice. With the loss of the central place for sacrifice and worship, Jews were compelled to adapt their religious practices to focus on prayer, study, and community. This shift laid the groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism, which emphasized textual interpretation over temple rituals. The event also catalyzed a reevaluation of what it meant to be Jewish in a post-Temple world, leading to a stronger emphasis on identity through shared texts and communal practices.

Related terms

Apocalypticism: A religious belief system focused on visions of an impending end of the world, divine judgment, and the establishment of a new divine order.

Pharisees: A Jewish sect during the Second Temple period known for its emphasis on oral traditions and interpretations of the Torah, which later influenced Rabbinic Judaism.

Sadducees: Another prominent Jewish sect during this period, primarily composed of the priestly class, who rejected oral traditions and were more aligned with Hellenistic culture.