The Formation of Judaism in Antiquity ST, WT

In 586 BCE, Judah fell to Babylonia; in 638 CE, Byzantine Jerusalem surrendered to the Muslims. During the centuries between these two important dates, Israelite culture transformed into "Judaism." In this course we will examine early Jewish society from a variety of topical perspectives. We will consider Hellenistic novellas and canonical works; see Jewish culture through the eyes of Greeks and Romans; consider sectarian movements, such as Samaritans, Essenes, and early Christian communities; discover the origins and art of the early synagogue; and learn about Judaism as it was lived by Jews throughout the ancient world. (Previously RELI/CLAS 0162) 3hr. lect.