Josephus Triumph 1

Josephus Jewish War - Summary

Page 1: Garrison Strengthening and River Peculiarity

• Strengthening of Garrisons: To prevent barbarian incursions, stronger garrisons were established throughout the district.

• Titus Caesar: After a visit to Berytus, he showcased Jewish captives in spectacles across several cities.

• Sabbatical River: A river running between Arcea and Raphanea exhibited a peculiar phenomenon of drying for six days and flowing on the seventh, hence named the Sabbatical River.

Page 2: Titus’s Arrival at Antioch

• People’s Reception: Antioch’s population rushed to welcome Titus, expressing joy but simultaneously petitioning for the expulsion of Jews.

• Titus's Response: Though he heard the pleas, Titus did not act on them, emphasizing the destruction of the Jews' homeland.

• Visit to Zeugma: After Antioch, he accepted a golden crown from a Parthian king and hosted a banquet.

Page 3: Refusal of Requests

• Status Quo for Jews: Titus decided to leave the Jews of Antioch undisturbed and proceeded to Egypt, reflecting on Jerusalem's devastation and the responsibility of its leaders for the calamity.

• Ruins of Wealth: Valuable objects buried during the war were being discovered in the ruins.

Page 4: Triumph in Rome

• Return to Rome: Upon arrival, Titus received a festive welcome, including a shared triumph with Vespasian.

• Celebration Details: The triumph's preparation was vast, marking their military achievements and reinforcing the unity of the empire.

Page 5: The Ceremony of Triumph

• Public Acclamation: The military had regimented the processional structure; significant applause greeted the commanders.

• Military Festivities: Various ceremonies took place, culminating in sacrifices and banquets for soldiers and citizens alike.

Page 6: Spectacle of the Triumph

• Grand Displays: The triumph included elaborate artworks and wealth showcasing the empire's power and riches.

• Rich Tribute Procession: The procession displayed extraordinary artifacts and captured goods, including representations of war’s devastation.

Page 7: Captive Status and Pageantry

• Captives' Display: Remarkably adorned captives amidst displays created an elaborate spectacle evoking both admiration and horror.

• Artful Structures: The triumph featured stages depicting battles, destruction, and the fates of cities.

Page 8: Spoils of War

• Jewish Temple Artifacts: Prominent items included gold and a unique lampstand from the Temple, symbolizing the Jewish faith.

• Procession Leadership: Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian led the triumph, highlighting their shared imperial identity.

Page 9: Execution of Simon

• Simon’s Fate: Simon, son of Gioras, was executed following the triumph, marking a grim end to his rebellion.

• Public Celebrations Continue: Rome celebrated her military victories alongside sacrifices and banquets.

Page 10: Establishing Peace

• Temple of Peace: Vespasian initiated building a grand Temple of Peace, showcasing the empire's wealth and dedication to the gods, housing spoils from the Jewish War.