Jesus and the New Testament: Jewish Response to Rome and Early Christianity

Flashcards covering key concepts related to Jesus, Jewish sects, and the early Christian church.

Hasmonean Dynasty

The Jewish dynasty that ruled under Roman authority for approximately a century, significantly impacting Jewish culture and society.

Josephus

A Jewish historian (37-100 CE) who described the emergence of three primary Jewish sects: Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes, and mentions a fourth group, the Zealots.

Pharisees

Jewish sect known as the 'separated ones', emerging around 110 BCE, resisting Hellenization, and emphasizing holy living according to the Torah.

Sadducees

A Jewish sect also emerging around 110 BCE, comprised of upper-class families and priests, recognizing only the first five books of the Torah.

Essenes

A Jewish sect that withdrew to Qumran, characterized by apocalyptic beliefs and strict adherence to the Torah, known for producing the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Zealots

A Jewish group that sought national independence from Rome through violent revolt and direct conflict.

Apocalyptic Beliefs

The beliefs held by groups like the Essenes that they were an apocalyptic community awaiting divine intervention.

Messiah

A messianic figure anticipated by the Pharisees and others who would restore a righteous monarchy and divine justice.

Roman Taxation

The economic burden faced by the majority of Jews, involving double taxation by Roman and local authorities.

Baptism

A significant ritual in Christianity signifying transformation, particularly associated with Jesus' identity and ministry.

Eucharist

The Lord's Supper in Christianity, central to identity, involving communion and symbolizing Christ’s sacrifice.

Catechumen

A person undergoing instruction and preparation for baptism in the Christian faith.

Asceticism

Discipline involving practices aimed at moral purity, prevalent in early Christianity as a response to the body and passions.

Constantine

The Roman Emperor who embraced Christianity, fostering its growth within the empire through legislation such as the Edict of Milan.

Ecumenical Councils

Assemblies of bishops convened by emperors to settle disputes and establish doctrine within early Christianity.

Gnosticism

A belief system positing that salvation comes through secret knowledge, often viewed as heretical in early Christianity.

Theodosius I

The emperor who declared Christianity the official faith of the Roman Empire and prohibited paganism.

Dogma

Core, unalterable teachings in Christianity, contrasted with doctrine, which can evolve.

Apocalyptic Literature

Texts from the Second Temple period depicting cosmic battles between good and evil, often arising from persecution.

Final Judgment

The concept emphasized by various Jewish sects, including the Pharisees and Essenes, regarding divine accountability and assessment.