Israel Bible Podcast The Roman Context for the Jews
Apr 23, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Paula Fredriksen, Auriello Professor of Scripture Emerita, shines a light on the interplay between Jews and the larger Roman culture in the first century. She explores how sacrificial practices influenced religious identity and the unique challenges Jews faced in a Hellenized society. Fredriksen also delves into anti-Jewish sentiments fueled by misunderstandings and cultural tensions. Listeners gain insight into how these dynamics shaped biblical narratives and early Christian interactions within the diverse landscapes of late antiquity.
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Ancient Sacrifices and Gods' Presence
- In antiquity, sacrifices called gods down to the altar to create their presence during rituals.
- Ancient Jews recognized other gods but considered their God supreme, reflecting polytheistic awareness within monotheism.
God Linked to Land and Universe
- Ancient peoples linked gods to particular lands and peoples, including Israel's God tied to Canaan.
- Israel's God uniquely claimed universal creation, setting Him apart from other localized gods.
Jews in Pagan Civic Culture
- Jews in Greek cities lived within pagan religious institutions that were integral to civic life.
- They participated in city rituals indirectly, respecting the gods but refraining from sacrifices themselves.
