
The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind Rome Meets the Jews: The First Challenge to Paganism
Feb 18, 2025
Delve into the historical dynamics between Rome and the Jews, exploring their migration and settlement within the empire. Discover how Roman conquests influenced Jewish communities and the accommodations made for Jewish practices. Examine fascinating texts like the Pseudepigrapha and their role in shaping Jewish identity. The rivalry between Roman honor and Jewish dignity offers rich insights into cultural clashes, while debates on Jewish influence in Roman literature add layers of complexity to this captivating narrative.
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Two Peoples With World-History Visions
- Jews and Romans each developed a self-understanding as divinely destined peoples shaping world history.
- This shared teleological vision set the stage for rivalry and mutual influence in the Roman era.
How Jews Arrived And Thrived In Rome
- Rome acquired a visible Jewish community through conquest, exile, and slavery after Pompey and later revolts.
- By the second century CE a thriving Jewish neighborhood and synagogue life existed in Rome.
Roman Accommodations For Jewish Practice
- Romans accommodated Jewish practices, showing practical respect despite cultural differences.
- Evidence includes kosher slaughter provisions and Passover allowances for Jewish soldiers.
























