Ancient Israel

Jerusalem Contested

The Holy City changed hands many times before the War of Independence.

Jewish Life in Palestine at the Beginning of the Christian Era

What daily life was like from the first through fifth centuries.

Babylonian Exile

The Temple's destruction, the transfer of leadership to Babylon, and the Persian return to Israel reflect the larger political conflicts of the ancient world.

Hellenism & Judaism

Palestine goes Greek.

Building the Second Temple

The historical importance and practical history of rebuilding ancient Judaism's sacred center.

The 12 Tribes

All of Jacob's sons.

Beit Dins and Sanhedrin

In the Second Temple period, a system of Jewish courts emerged.

The Bar Kochba Revolt

Messianic figure Simeon Bar Kochba led the Jews in a failed revolt against Roman rule.

Ancient Israelites: Society & Lifestyle

Two main social structures competed in ancient Israel. The people were united under the monarchy, which organized the state for administrative and taxation purposes. At the same time, the Israelites held fast to their tribal associations.

Josephus Flavius

Josephus Flavius both participated in and wrote the history of the Jewish interaction with Rome.

Palestine under Persian, Byzantine and Arab Rule

24 years, three empires, and one new faith in Palestine