The religion of the Jews who lived in the Greek speaking areas of the Mediterranean is commonly called "Hellenistic Judaism". This episode explains why scholars use this term; why it is less useful than it might seem; and how it is that most of these … [Continue reading] about From Israelite to Jew: 14: Hellenistic Judaism
From Israelite to Jew: 13: Origins of Jewish Sectarianism
On the origins of Jewish sectarianism in the second to first centuries, BCE, with a focus on Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and (if different) the first inhabitants of Qumran, where the Dead Sea scrolls would be found.The episode can be heard here, … [Continue reading] about From Israelite to Jew: 13: Origins of Jewish Sectarianism
From Israelite to Jew: 12: The Hasmonean Kings
A discussion of Judah's consolidation of power around 162 BCE to the last of the Hasmonean kings, in 30 BCE.The episode can be heard here, or on the player below. More download options are here. The podcast is also available on iTunes. … [Continue reading] about From Israelite to Jew: 12: The Hasmonean Kings
From Israelite to Jew: 11: The Revolt of the Maccabees
Why did the Maccabees revolt around 165 BCE? This episode explores both the revolt of the Maccabees and the origins of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.The episode can be heard here or on the player below; more download options are available here. … [Continue reading] about From Israelite to Jew: 11: The Revolt of the Maccabees
From Israelite to Jew: 10: Jubilees and 1 Enoch
A discussion of two books dating from the third or second centuries, BCE, Jubilees and 1 Enoch. Both books, part of a collection traditionally known as "the Pseudepigrapha," testify to a Jewish understanding of continuing direct divine revelation in … [Continue reading] about From Israelite to Jew: 10: Jubilees and 1 Enoch