Second Temple Period

Definition

The Second Temple Period refers to the time in Jewish history from the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple in 516 BCE until its destruction by the Romans in 70 CE. This era was significant for the development of Jewish religious thought, the emergence of various Jewish sects, and the shaping of early Christianity, reflecting a complex interplay between cultural, political, and spiritual influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Temple was built on the site of Solomon's Temple and became the center of Jewish worship, influencing religious practices and community identity.
2. This period saw significant historical events, such as the Maccabean Revolt and subsequent Hasmonean rule, which shaped Jewish independence and cultural revival.
3. Different Jewish groups emerged during this time, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Zealots, each with distinct beliefs and practices.
4. The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE by Roman forces marked a crucial turning point for Judaism, leading to a shift from temple worship to rabbinic Judaism.
5. The Second Temple Period laid the groundwork for early Christianity, as many key events in Jesus's life occurred during this time and were influenced by contemporary Jewish thought.

Review Questions

• How did the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple in 516 BCE impact Jewish identity during the Second Temple Period?
  • The rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple in 516 BCE played a pivotal role in shaping Jewish identity during the Second Temple Period by establishing a central place of worship and community gathering. It restored a sense of national pride and religious focus among Jews who had returned from exile. The Temple became not only a physical space for sacrifices and rituals but also a symbol of hope and renewal for Jewish culture, influencing religious practices for centuries to come.
• Discuss the significance of various Jewish sects that emerged during the Second Temple Period and how they influenced religious practices.
  • The emergence of various Jewish sects during the Second Temple Period significantly influenced religious practices and beliefs within Judaism. Groups such as the Pharisees emphasized oral law and traditions, shaping future Rabbinic Judaism. The Sadducees, primarily composed of priestly families, adhered strictly to the written Torah and focused on temple rituals. Meanwhile, the Essenes sought asceticism and communal living away from society. This diversity led to debates over interpretation and practice that are still relevant in contemporary Judaism.
• Analyze how the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE transformed Judaism and its relationship with early Christianity.
  • The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE transformed Judaism dramatically by ending centralized temple worship and prompting a shift toward rabbinic leadership and synagogues as places of learning and prayer. This change forced Jews to reinterpret their faith without a physical temple, which significantly shaped Rabbinic Judaism. Furthermore, this moment marked a critical juncture in relation to early Christianity; as Christianity began to distinguish itself from Judaism, both faiths underwent significant theological developments influenced by their shared history in this tumultuous period.

Related terms

Hasmonean Dynasty: A ruling dynasty of Judea established after the Maccabean Revolt against Seleucid rule, known for expanding Jewish territory and promoting Jewish culture during the Second Temple Period.

Diaspora: The dispersion of Jews outside of their homeland, particularly significant during and after the Second Temple Period as communities formed across the Mediterranean and beyond.

Pharisees: A prominent Jewish sect during the Second Temple Period known for their emphasis on oral law and traditions, as well as their influence on later Rabbinic Judaism.