Chapter 3: The Herodian Period Notes

Chapter 3: The Herodian Period

Overview of Jewish Messianism in the Second Temple Period

• Absence of a Standard Notion of the Messiah: Recent studies indicate that a standard concept of the Messiah was not developed during the Second Temple period. The writings of the time frequently lack references to a messianic figure when expected.
• Sigmund Mowinckel's Observation: Asserts that "an eschatology without a messiah is conceivable, but not a messiah without a future hope", indicating a foundational belief in a future hope is essential for messianic claims.

Herod's Impact on Jewish Identity

• Herodian Rule: Herod the Great's reign (40-4 B.C.E) signified a shift in Jewish identity under Roman influence. His promotion of Augustan rule and Romanization influenced Jewish religious beliefs.
• Client Kingship: After being declared king by the Roman Senate, Herod adopted the role of a client king, utilizing his Idumean background to establish authority over Judaea.

1. Herodian Rule, Roman Ideology, and Messianic Claims

• Herod's Acceptance of Roman Authority: Herod navigated his reign by pledging loyalty to Rome which facilitated Roman influence over Judaea.
• Comparison with Hasmonean Rule: Unlike the Hasmoneans who established a more autonomous Jewish kingdom, Herod's dependency on Roman patronage altered the landscape of Judaean society.
• Cultural Adaptations: Both Hasmoneans and Herod utilized Hellenistic culture, but Heord took this further by promoting Greek customs and the imperial cult.
• Symbolism of the Golden Eagle: Herod placed a Roman eagle above the temple gate, provoking Jewish outrage. This incident exemplifies his complex relationship with Judaism and Hellenism.

2. Messianic Manifestations and Themes

• Fragmentation of Society Post-Herod: After Herod's death, various factions vied for leadership, including some claiming to be messianic figures.
• Popular Messianism: A response to oppressive rule, including factions like the Sicarii, demonstrated a shift in Jewish expectations of deliverance through a messianic figure.
• Messianic Claimants: Figures such as Simon and Athronges presented themselves as kings but lacked traditional messianic claims, focusing instead on local power struggles.

Conceptions of the Messiah in the Herodian Period

• Continued Speculation on Messiahs: Josephus notes significant speculation regarding a future ruler who would deliver the Jewish people, suggesting active discussion of messianic hopes leading up to the revolt.
• Qumran Scrolls: Emphasize a militant Davidic Messiah who would conquer oppressors. This reflects broader themes found in the Psalms of Solomon where messianic expectations align with violent actions against foes.

Apocalyptic Literature and Transformations of the Messiah

• Apocalyptic Literature's Role: Explores the transformation of the Messiah's image in response to oppression. Figures in works like "The Testament of Moses" lack specific messianic representation, indicating a theological perspective focusing on divine agency.
• **The Role of the