Aqa rs Theme 1.2

What is Hellenism?

The spread of Greek culture, language, and ideas throughout the Mediterranean world following Alexander the Great’s conquests.

How did Hellenism influence Jewish life in the first century?

Greek philosophy, art, and language shaped Jewish thought and education; some Jews adopted Greek customs, while others resisted to protect their faith.

What language became common due to Hellenistic influence?

Greek (Koine Greek) — the main language of trade, culture, and the New Testament itself.

Who brought the region under Roman rule?

Pompey the Great conquered Judea in 63 BCE, bringing it under Roman control.

What is Hellenism?

The spread of Greek culture, language, and ideas throughout the Mediterranean world following Alexander the Great’s conquests.

How did Hellenism influence Jewish life in the first century?

Greek philosophy, art, and language shaped Jewish thought and education; some Jews adopted Greek customs, while others resisted to protect their faith.

What language became common due to Hellenistic influence?

Greek (Koine Greek) — the main language of trade, culture, and the New Testament itself.

Who brought the region under Roman rule?

Pompey the Great conquered Judea in 63 BCE, bringing it under Roman control.

What was the role of the Roman governor in Judea?

To maintain order, collect taxes, and oversee justice—e.g., Pontius Pilate was governor during Jesus’ ministry.

How did Roman rule affect Jewish expectations of the Messiah?

Many Jews hoped for a political Messiah to free them from Roman oppression.

What was daily life like under Roman rule?

Heavy taxation, military presence, and occasional uprisings created tension between Jews and Romans.

Who were the Pharisees?

A Jewish group focused on the Law and purity; they believed in resurrection and life after death.

Who were the Sadducees?

A wealthy priestly group; they rejected resurrection and focused on Temple worship.

What were the Zealots known for?

Their militant opposition to Roman rule and desire for Jewish independence.

What were the Essenes’ beliefs and practices?

A separatist Jewish sect (possibly linked to Qumran / Dead Sea Scrolls) that sought purity through isolation and strict religious life.

How did this historical context shape the New Testament?

The cultural tension between Judaism, Hellenism, and Rome influenced Jesus’ teachings, the Gospel writers’ perspectives, and the early Church’s mission.

Who was Herod the Great, and why is he significant to New Testament history?

He was the Roman-appointed King of Judea (37–4 BCE); known for massive building projects (like expanding the Temple) and for ruling harshly under Rome’s authority.

What happened to Herod’s kingdom after his death?

It was divided among his sons, leading to political instability; Judea eventually became a Roman province governed directly by Roman officials.

What was the role of the Sanhedrin?

The highest Jewish council, responsible for religious and some civil matters; it included both Pharisees and Sadducees.

What were Messianic expectations among Jews at the time of Jesus?

Many awaited a Davidic warrior-king who would free Israel from Roman rule and restore God’s kingdom on earth.

How did Jesus’ idea of the Messiah differ from popular Jewish expectations?

Jesus preached a spiritual, suffering servant rather than a political liberator, focusing on forgiveness and inner transformation.

What impact did Roman occupation have on Jewish identity and religion?

It deepened divisions between groups — some sought violent resistance (Zealots), others strict law observance (Pharisees), or withdrawal (Essenes).

Why was Jerusalem significant in this context?

It was the religious and political center of Judaism, housing the Temple — the heart of Jewish worship and national identity.

What was the Temple’s role in Jewish life?

The Temple was where sacrifices were made, festivals celebrated, and God’s presence was believed to dwell — central to Jewish faith.

What was the significance of synagogues in first-century Judaism?

Synagogues became local centers for worship, teaching, and community life, especially after the Babylonian Exile and outside Jerusalem.

How did Greek philosophy influence early Christian thought?

Ideas like the logos (reason or word) influenced Gospel writers, especially John, in describing Jesus’ divine nature and relationship to creation.