The Ancients
Hanukkah & the Maccabees
Dec 8, 2024
Join Dr. Jodi Magness, a Professor at the University of North Carolina and an expert on ancient Jewish history, as she unpacks the fascinating origins of Hanukkah. Delve into the gripping story of the Maccabean Revolt against the oppressive Seleucid Empire over 2,000 years ago. Discover how the revolt shaped Jewish identity amid Hellenistic pressures and the pivotal actions of figures like Mattathias and Judah Maccabee. This rich narrative explores themes of defiance, cultural survival, and the historical significance of Jerusalem's temple rededication.
41:35
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Quick takeaways
- Hanukkah originated from the Maccabean Revolt, a response to the oppressive Seleucid Empire's cultural imposition on Jewish identity.
- The revolt not only symbolized resistance against foreign domination but also involved internal conflicts among Jews regarding cultural compliance.
Deep dives
Origins of Hanukkah
Hanukkah has its roots in the Maccabean Revolt, a significant event in ancient Judean history that occurred over 2,000 years ago. This revolt was primarily a response to the oppressive rule of the Seleucid Empire, which sought to impose Hellenistic culture and beliefs on the Jewish population. The uprising began as a grassroots movement led by Mattathias, a village priest, whose defiance against royal orders sparked widespread resistance among the Jews. Ultimately, the successful outcome of the Maccabean Revolt led to the rededication of the Jerusalem temple, a pivotal moment that is commemorated during the festival of Hanukkah.
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