The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind

Josephus I: The Jewish Revolt

Mar 13, 2025
Delve into Josephus' intriguing account of the Jewish revolt and its lasting impact. Explore his motivations for defection and how he sought to portray Jews positively. Discover the radical Sicarii's role, their violent tactics, and the philosophical debates surrounding their legacy at Masada. Uncover the moral complexities of martyrdom versus life preservation, and how modern scholars view these historical narratives. Join the discussion on the clash of Jewish and Hellenistic influences that shaped this pivotal moment in history.
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INSIGHT

Josephus Shapes the Revolt's Story

  • Josephus is our only full narrative of the first Jewish revolt and shapes our understanding of that trauma for millennia.
  • He wrote in Greek to present the Jewish case to the wider Roman and Hellenistic world.
INSIGHT

Florus As The Catalyst

  • Josephus defends the revolt as forced by Roman misrule under Governor Florus rather than wanton rebellion.
  • He includes himself and his fellow Jews in that defense while criticizing Florus' sacrilege and extortion.
ANECDOTE

Triumph Parade Of Temple Spoils

  • Josephus describes Roman triumphs that paraded temple vessels and Jewish leaders in Rome.
  • He records the golden candlestick, the law, and captives like Simon son of Gioras displayed in the triumph.
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