Second Temple Jewish Scriptures — Jewish Historical Setting

The Maccabean Revolt

167-160 BC
A Visit With Jesus

Jewish resistance arose after Antiochus IV suppressed traditional worship and profaned the Jerusalem temple.

Full Account

Antiochus IV Epiphanes attempted to impose religious and cultural conformity upon Judea. His policies included interference with temple worship and prohibitions against central practices of the Law.

Mattathias and his sons led a revolt. Judas Maccabeus recaptured Jerusalem, and the temple was cleansed and rededicated in 164 BC, an event remembered at Hanukkah. First Maccabees is an important historical source, although Protestant tradition does not receive it as part of the Hebrew canon.

Historical Significance

The revolt preserved Jewish worship and intensified reflection on faithfulness, martyrdom, resurrection, and the authority of the Torah.

People, Places and Sources