Second Temple Period

Definition

The Second Temple Period refers to the era in Jewish history from the construction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem around 516 BCE until its destruction by the Romans in 70 CE. This period was marked by significant religious, political, and cultural developments, including the emergence of various Jewish sects and the development of important religious texts, which laid the groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Temple was completed in 516 BCE and stood until its destruction by the Romans in 70 CE, symbolizing Jewish resilience and faith.
2. During this period, various sects such as the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Zealots emerged, each with different beliefs and practices.
3. The Second Temple Period saw the composition of significant texts, including parts of the Hebrew Bible, and other works that would later be included in Rabbinic literature.
4. The period also included significant historical events such as the Maccabean Revolt, which led to a brief period of Jewish independence.
5. The destruction of the Second Temple marked a profound shift in Judaism, leading to a focus on Torah study and community life rather than temple-based worship.

Review Questions

• How did the Second Temple Period contribute to the development of different Jewish sects?
  • The Second Temple Period was a time of great religious diversity and debate within Judaism. The political turmoil and cultural influences from surrounding civilizations led to the emergence of various sects, such as the Pharisees and Sadducees. Each group had distinct interpretations of Jewish law and tradition, shaping their beliefs and practices in response to contemporary issues. This diversity ultimately contributed to a rich tapestry of thought that would influence Rabbinic literature.
• What role did the Second Temple play in shaping Jewish identity during this period?
  • The Second Temple served as a crucial center for Jewish worship and community life during its existence. It was not only a place for sacrifices and rituals but also a symbol of Jewish resilience after the Babylonian exile. The temple was integral to maintaining a collective identity among Jews, fostering a sense of unity amidst external challenges. Its destruction in 70 CE profoundly affected Jewish identity, leading to a shift from temple worship to community-based practices centered around study and prayer.
• Evaluate the impact of the Second Temple Period on the evolution of Rabbinic literature.
  • The Second Temple Period significantly influenced the evolution of Rabbinic literature by establishing key religious ideas and practices that would be expanded upon later. As various sects interpreted scripture differently, these interpretations laid foundational concepts for future Rabbinic discussions. The texts produced during this time, including those that would later be included in both the Talmud and Midrashim, reflected diverse perspectives on law, ethics, and spirituality. The period's theological developments set the stage for a transition from temple-centric practices to those centered around learning and community engagement in post-Temple Judaism.

Related terms

Second Temple: The temple in Jerusalem that was rebuilt after the Babylonian exile, serving as the center of Jewish worship and identity during the Second Temple Period.

Pharisees: A Jewish sect known for their emphasis on oral tradition and interpretation of the Torah, which significantly influenced the development of Rabbinic literature.

Apocrypha: A collection of ancient texts that are not considered canonical in Jewish tradition but were written during the Second Temple Period and provide insight into Jewish thought and culture.