6.3 The Maccabean Revolt and Hasmonean dynasty
4 min read•august 8, 2024
The shook up the ancient Jewish world. It started when the pushed Greek culture on Jews, sparking a fierce rebellion. Led by the Maccabees, Jews fought back, reclaimed Jerusalem, and rededicated their Temple.
This revolt birthed the Hasmonean dynasty, a Jewish ruling family that expanded Judea's borders. But internal conflicts and Roman interference eventually weakened their grip on power, setting the stage for big changes in Jewish society and politics.
The Maccabean Revolt
Hellenization and Antiochus IV Epiphanes
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- Hellenization refers to the spread of Greek culture, language, and customs throughout the ancient world following the conquests of Alexander the Great
- Jews in Judea faced increasing pressure to adopt Greek customs and religious practices under the rule of the Seleucid Empire
- Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid ruler, sought to accelerate the process of Hellenization in Judea by prohibiting Jewish religious practices and desecrating the Temple in Jerusalem (erecting an altar to Zeus)
- These actions sparked widespread resistance among the Jewish population, leading to the Maccabean Revolt
Mattathias and Judah Maccabee
- , a Jewish priest from the village of , refused to comply with Antiochus IV's decree to sacrifice to Greek gods and initiated the revolt by killing a Hellenized Jew who attempted to make a sacrifice
- Mattathias and his five sons, including Judah Maccabee, fled to the wilderness and organized a guerrilla campaign against the Seleucid forces
- After Mattathias' death, his son Judah Maccabee took leadership of the revolt and led the Jewish rebels to several significant victories against the Seleucid army, despite being outnumbered and outmatched in terms of equipment
Temple Rededication and Hanukkah
- In 164 BCE, Judah Maccabee and his followers recaptured Jerusalem and the Temple, which had been defiled by the Seleucids
- The Temple was purified and rededicated, with the festival of established to commemorate this event
- According to tradition, when the Temple was rededicated, there was only enough pure olive oil to light the Temple menorah for one day, but miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, giving the Jews time to prepare more pure oil
- Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated for eight days to commemorate this miracle and the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucids
The Hasmonean Dynasty
Establishment and Expansion
- The Hasmonean dynasty was established by the descendants of Mattathias, who continued to rule Judea as both high priests and kings following the Maccabean Revolt
- , one of Judah Maccabee's brothers, was the first Hasmonean ruler to achieve a significant degree of independence from the Seleucids and expanded Judean territory
- , Simon's son and successor, further expanded the through military conquests, annexing regions such as Idumea and Samaria
Hasmonean Rule and Decline
- , John Hyrcanus' son, continued the expansionist policies of his predecessors but faced internal opposition from religious groups like the
- , Alexander Jannaeus' widow, ruled as queen after his death and managed to maintain a relatively peaceful reign by balancing the interests of the Pharisees and
- However, the power struggle between Salome Alexandra's sons, and , weakened the Hasmonean dynasty and eventually led to Roman intervention in Judean affairs, setting the stage for the end of Hasmonean independence
Jewish Sects During the Hasmonean Period
Pharisees
- The Pharisees were a Jewish sect that emphasized strict adherence to the Torah and the oral law, as well as belief in the resurrection of the dead
- They promoted the idea that all Jews, not just the priesthood, should strive to live a life of ritual purity and observance of the law
- The Pharisees often clashed with the Hasmonean rulers, particularly during the reign of Alexander Jannaeus, due to their opposition to the combination of religious and political power in the hands of the Hasmonean kings
Sadducees
- The Sadducees were a Jewish sect closely associated with the aristocracy and the priesthood
- They rejected the oral law and the concept of resurrection, focusing instead on strict adherence to the written Torah
- The Sadducees were more supportive of the Hasmonean dynasty, as they benefited from the political and economic power structures of the time
Essenes
- The were a Jewish sect that emphasized asceticism, communal living, and a strict interpretation of Jewish law
- They often lived in isolated communities, such as near the Dead Sea, where they devoted themselves to studying scripture and maintaining a life of ritual purity
- The Essenes are believed to have been responsible for the creation and preservation of the Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient Jewish texts that provide valuable insights into the religious and social context of the Second Temple period
Key Terms to Review (28)
1 Maccabees: 1 Maccabees is a historical book found in the Apocrypha that chronicles the events of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire, emphasizing the struggles and triumphs of the Jewish people during this critical period. The text serves as an important source for understanding the origins of the Hasmonean dynasty and the restoration of Jewish sovereignty in Judea, highlighting themes of faith, resistance, and identity.
2 Maccabees: 2 Maccabees is a deuterocanonical book of the Bible that recounts the events of the Maccabean Revolt, focusing on the struggles of the Jewish people against Hellenistic influence and persecution. It emphasizes themes of faith, divine intervention, and martyrdom, reflecting the spiritual and political turmoil during the Hasmonean dynasty.
Alexander Jannaeus: Alexander Jannaeus was a Hasmonean king and high priest who reigned from 103 to 76 BCE, known for his military conquests and efforts to expand the borders of Judea. His reign marked a significant period in the Hasmonean dynasty, as he navigated complex relationships with both internal factions and external powers, especially the Seleucid Empire and the surrounding regions.
Aristobulus II: Aristobulus II was the last Hasmonean king of Judea, reigning from 66 to 63 BCE. His rule followed a period of intense internal conflict and civil war within the Hasmonean dynasty, which had previously established an independent Jewish state after the Maccabean Revolt. Aristobulus II's reign marked the end of Hasmonean independence as he struggled against rival factions and foreign intervention, leading to the eventual conquest of Judea by Pompey and the incorporation of the region into the Roman Republic.
Coinage of the Hasmoneans: The coinage of the Hasmoneans refers to the series of coins minted during the Hasmonean dynasty, which ruled Judea from 140 to 37 BCE. These coins were significant as they represented a new era of Jewish autonomy following the Maccabean Revolt and were used to promote the dynasty's legitimacy, economic stability, and cultural identity in a region dominated by Hellenistic influences.
Essenes: The Essenes were a Jewish sect that emerged in the second century BCE, known for their ascetic lifestyle, communal living, and strict observance of the Law. They are often associated with the Qumran community and the Dead Sea Scrolls, which provide insights into their beliefs and practices. Their focus on purity and eschatology set them apart from other Jewish groups during the Second Temple period.
Hanukkah: Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE, following the Maccabean Revolt against Hellenistic influence. The celebration is rooted in the events surrounding the Maccabees' victory over the Seleucid Empire and highlights themes of religious freedom and perseverance. The miracle of the oil, which lasted eight days despite there being only enough for one day, is central to the observance.
Hasmonean Kingdom: The Hasmonean Kingdom was a significant Jewish state that emerged in the 2nd century BCE following the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. This kingdom marked a period of Jewish independence and expansion in Judea, characterized by the establishment of a dynasty that combined both political and religious authority, as the Hasmoneans were both rulers and high priests.
Hellenistic Influence: Hellenistic influence refers to the cultural, political, and social impact of Greek culture and ideas following the conquests of Alexander the Great, which spread throughout the Eastern Mediterranean and into the Near East. This influence transformed local cultures by introducing Greek language, art, philosophy, and governance, often blending them with indigenous traditions and practices.
Hyrcanus II: Hyrcanus II was a prominent figure in the late Hasmonean dynasty, serving as high priest and briefly as king of Judea during a tumultuous period in Jewish history. His reign was marked by internal strife and the influence of external powers, particularly the Roman Republic, which played a crucial role in the political dynamics of the region during and after the Maccabean Revolt.
Jewish Identity: Jewish identity encompasses the shared cultural, religious, and historical experiences that define Jewish peoplehood. This identity has evolved through time, shaped by significant events such as the Maccabean Revolt and the rise of the Hasmonean dynasty, which fostered a sense of unity and resistance against Hellenistic influences, reaffirming the importance of Jewish customs, laws, and beliefs.
Jewish Rebellion: The Jewish Rebellion refers to a series of uprisings by the Jewish people against foreign rule, particularly in response to oppressive policies and cultural assimilation efforts. The most notable example is the Maccabean Revolt, which took place in the 2nd century BCE against the Seleucid Empire, leading to the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty and a period of Jewish sovereignty in the Holy Land.
Jewish sovereignty: Jewish sovereignty refers to the political independence and self-governance of the Jewish people in their historical homeland, particularly during the Hasmonean dynasty after the Maccabean Revolt. This period marked a significant restoration of Jewish political authority, which allowed for the establishment of a state governed by Jewish law and cultural practices following centuries of foreign domination.
John Hyrcanus: John Hyrcanus was a prominent leader of the Hasmonean dynasty who served as high priest and ruler of Judea from 134 to 104 BCE. He played a crucial role in consolidating the power of the Hasmoneans following the Maccabean Revolt and significantly expanded the territory and influence of Judea during his reign.
Jonathan Apphus: Jonathan Apphus was a prominent leader of the Maccabean Revolt and the son of Mattathias, known for his role as a military commander and political leader during the early Hasmonean dynasty. Following the death of his brother Judah Maccabee, Jonathan continued the fight against the Seleucid Empire and ultimately established himself as the high priest, which solidified his family's influence and control over Judea.
Judas Maccabeus: Judas Maccabeus was a Jewish priest and military leader who played a crucial role in the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire during the second century BCE. He is best known for leading a successful rebellion that restored Jewish worship in the Temple of Jerusalem and established the Hasmonean dynasty, which ruled Judea for about a century. His leadership and military strategies are celebrated in Jewish tradition, especially during the festival of Hanukkah.
Maccabean pottery: Maccabean pottery refers to a distinct style of ceramic ware that emerged during the Maccabean period, roughly between 167 and 37 BCE, associated with the Maccabean Revolt and the subsequent Hasmonean dynasty in Judea. This pottery is characterized by its unique shapes, decorative techniques, and regional influences that reflect the socio-political changes of the time, including Hellenistic influences mixed with traditional Jewish styles.
Maccabean Revolt: The Maccabean Revolt was a significant uprising led by the Jewish people against the Seleucid Empire from 167 to 160 BCE. It arose in response to oppressive measures imposed by King Antiochus IV, including the prohibition of Jewish religious practices and the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem. This revolt not only marked a pivotal moment in Jewish history but also set the stage for the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty, which brought about a brief period of Jewish independence.
Mattathias: Mattathias was a Jewish priest and a key figure in the Maccabean Revolt against Seleucid rule in the 2nd century BCE. His actions, particularly his refusal to comply with the forced Hellenization of the Jewish people, sparked a significant rebellion that led to the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty, which sought to restore Jewish independence and religious practices.
Modiin: Modiin is an ancient city located in central Israel, historically significant as the birthplace of the Maccabees, a group of Jewish warriors who led the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. This city represents a symbol of Jewish resistance and the fight for religious freedom, serving as the backdrop for pivotal events that marked the beginning of the Hasmonean dynasty.
Pharisees: The Pharisees were a prominent religious group in ancient Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law and oral traditions. They played a significant role in the social and political landscape during the Second Temple period, particularly influencing Jewish life and thought through their teachings and interpretations of the Torah, which shaped later Jewish practices.
Qumran: Qumran is an archaeological site located near the Dead Sea in Israel, known primarily for its association with the Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient Jewish texts. The site is significant for understanding the cultural and religious landscape of Second Temple Judaism and the early roots of Christianity, as it was inhabited by a sect often identified as the Essenes, who sought to live a communal and ascetic lifestyle away from mainstream Jewish society.
Sadducees: The Sadducees were a prominent Jewish sect during the Second Temple period, known for their strict adherence to the Torah and rejection of oral traditions. They were influential in the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, and often held power during the Hasmonean dynasty. Their theological beliefs included denial of the resurrection and the existence of angels, setting them apart from other Jewish groups like the Pharisees.
Salome Alexandra: Salome Alexandra was the last queen regnant of the Hasmonean dynasty, ruling from 76 to 67 BCE. She is notable for her significant role in the political landscape of Judea during a tumultuous period marked by the Maccabean Revolt and the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty, as she worked to maintain peace and stability while promoting Jewish religious observance.
Seleucid Empire: The Seleucid Empire was a Hellenistic state that existed from 312 BC to 63 BC, established by Seleucus I Nicator after the death of Alexander the Great. It spanned a vast territory that included parts of modern-day Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran, and played a significant role in the cultural and political landscape of the ancient Near East, particularly in relation to the Maccabean Revolt and the rise of the Hasmonean dynasty.
Self-rule: Self-rule refers to the ability of a group or nation to govern itself and make its own laws without external control. In the context of the Maccabean Revolt and Hasmonean dynasty, self-rule represents the Jewish people's struggle for independence from foreign domination and their establishment of a sovereign state in Judea after centuries of oppression.
Simon Maccabeus: Simon Maccabeus was a prominent leader during the Maccabean Revolt and the founding figure of the Hasmonean dynasty, which ruled Judea in the 2nd century BCE. He played a crucial role in consolidating Jewish independence after the successful revolt against the Seleucid Empire, marking a significant turning point in Jewish history by establishing a new political and religious leadership.
Temple rituals: Temple rituals refer to the sacred practices and ceremonies conducted within religious temples, often aimed at worshiping deities, seeking divine favor, or ensuring the community's spiritual well-being. In the context of the Maccabean Revolt and the Hasmonean dynasty, these rituals played a significant role in re-establishing Jewish religious identity after periods of oppression and Hellenistic influence, particularly through the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem.