Times of Transition: Judea in the Early Hellenistic Period

This multidisciplinary study examines Judean history and biblical literature in the late fourth and third centuries BCE, challenging the view of a seamless continuity from late Persian to Hasmonean times. Recent studies reveal this period as one of major social changes and intense literary activity, with historians shedding new light on the Hellenistic empires and the relationship between the central power and local entities. The redating of biblical texts to the third century BCE challenges traditional periodization and situates Judea within its broader regional and transregional imperial contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2021
Publisher: Eisenbrauns

This comprehensive study delves into the rich tapestry of Judean history and biblical literature during the late fourth and third centuries BCE, offering a fresh perspective on this pivotal era. In a significant reevaluation of this time, the contributions compiled in this volume portray it as a period characterized by significant transformations.

Until recently, the period spanning from Alexander's conquest in 332 BCE to the early years of Seleucid dominance following Antiochus III's conquest in 198 BCE was believed to be poorly documented in material evidence and textual production. This perception reinforced the notion that the transition from late Persian to Hasmonean times was characterized by a seamless continuity. Biblical scholars held the view that no literary activity belonged to the Hellenistic age, and archaeologists faced challenges in refining their understanding due to the lack of secure chronological markers. However, recent scholarly endeavors have unveiled a different reality. These studies reveal that the late fourth and third centuries BCE witnessed a period of profound social changes and a thriving literary activity. Historians have shed new light on the nature of the Hellenistic empires and the intricate relationship between the central power and local entities within ancient imperial contexts. Moreover, the redating of several biblical texts to the third century BCE challenges the traditional periodization of Judean history.

By integrating Hellenistic history, the archaeology of Judea, and biblical studies, this volume offers a fresh appraisal of the early Hellenistic period. It portrays it as a time of remarkable transition and change, while also situating Judea within its broader regional and transregional imperial contexts. This multidisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and developments of this pivotal period in Jewish history.

Weight: 1586g
Dimension: 222 x 287 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781646021147