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 to its destruction by the Romans in 70 CE. This time frame was marked by significant religious, cultural, and political developments that shaped Jewish identity and symbolism, especially in art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Temple was built to replace Solomon's Temple, which was destroyed by the Babylonians, and it became a central place of worship for Jews.
2. This period saw the emergence of various Jewish sects, including the Pharisees and Sadducees, each with different beliefs and practices.
3. Art from the Second Temple Period often included significant symbols such as the Menorah and other motifs that represented Jewish identity and faith.
4. The Second Temple's destruction by the Romans marked a turning point in Jewish history, leading to the diaspora and significant changes in religious practices.
5. Many texts of the Hebrew Bible were compiled and edited during this period, influencing later interpretations and understandings of Jewish law and tradition.

Review Questions

• How did the cultural influences during the Second Temple Period shape Jewish symbolism in art?
  • The cultural influences of Hellenism during the Second Temple Period significantly shaped Jewish symbolism in art. As Greek culture permeated Jewish society, artists began to incorporate Hellenistic styles while still expressing distinctively Jewish themes. This blending resulted in unique artistic expressions that highlighted symbols like the Menorah and other religious motifs, showcasing how external influences could coexist with a strong sense of identity.
• Discuss the role of different Jewish sects during the Second Temple Period and how they contributed to the development of Jewish symbolism.
  • Different Jewish sects like the Pharisees and Sadducees played pivotal roles during the Second Temple Period by interpreting scripture and religious practices in unique ways. These interpretations often manifested in symbolic representations within art. For instance, while Pharisees emphasized oral traditions and community practices, Sadducees focused on temple rituals, both contributing to a diverse range of symbols that represented their beliefs, ultimately enriching Jewish artistic expression.
• Evaluate how the destruction of the Second Temple affected Jewish art and symbolism in subsequent periods.
  • The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE had profound implications for Jewish art and symbolism. Following this event, there was a shift from temple-centric worship to practices that emphasized community and textual study, leading to new forms of artistic expression that focused on symbols such as scrolls or abstract designs instead of physical representations. This transformation not only reflected changes in worship but also highlighted a resilient Jewish identity that adapted to new realities while preserving core beliefs and traditions.

Related terms

Hasmonean Dynasty: The ruling dynasty of Judea during the late Second Temple Period, which emerged after the Maccabean Revolt and lasted until the Roman conquest.

Rabbinic Judaism: The form of Judaism that developed after the destruction of the Second Temple, focusing on the teachings and interpretations of rabbis rather than temple rituals.

Hellenism: The spread of Greek culture and influence that impacted Jewish life, philosophy, and artistic expression during the Second Temple Period.