The Intertestamental Period and Jewish History

A collection of vocabulary flashcards related to the intertestamental period, focusing on key terms and concepts in Jewish history, Hellenism, and religious movements.

Hellenism

The spread of Greek language and culture across the ancient world, initiated by Alexander the Great.

Koine Greek

The common form of Greek used during the Hellenistic period; became the lingua franca of the ancient world.

Antiochus IV Epiphanes

The Seleucid king known for his aggressive policies against the Jews, including the banning of their religious practices.

Abomination of Desolation

A term used in the Book of Daniel referring to Antiochus IV's desecration of the Jerusalem Temple.

Maccabean Revolt

A Jewish uprising against Seleucid rule that began in 167 BCE, led by Mattathias and his sons.

Hasmoneans

The priestly dynasty established by the Maccabees that ruled Judea after the successful revolt against the Seleucids.

Pompey Magnus

The Roman general who took control of Judea in 63 BCE, ending a brief period of Jewish independence.

Caesar Augustus

The first Roman emperor, ruling from 27 BCE, during whose reign Jesus of Nazareth was born.

Second Temple Judaism

The form of Judaism practiced during the Second Temple period, which concluded with the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE.

Diaspora Judaism

The branch of Judaism that developed outside of Israel, often incorporating elements of Greek culture and philosophy.

Pharisees

A Jewish sect that emerged as a resistance against the corruption of the Hasmoneans, emphasizing Torah and oral tradition.

Essenes

A sect of Judaism known for their ascetic lifestyle and strong emphasis on purity and prayer.

Samaritans

An ethnoreligious group related to the Jews, claiming descent from the northern tribes of Israel, with distinct beliefs and practices.

Greco-Roman Polytheism

The religious system that involved the worship of multiple gods, including deities from Greek and Roman cultures.

Mystery Religions

Religious movements in the eastern empire that offered secret knowledge and practices, often related to fertility and afterlife.

Imperial Cult

The practice of worshipping the emperor as a god, especially prevalent in the eastern Roman Empire.