What is the Intertestamental Period?
The intertestamental period refers to the time between the Old Testament and the New Testament, stretching approximately 400 years. This era is crucial for understanding the background and context in which the New Testament was written. During this time, the Jewish people faced significant cultural, political, and religious changes that influenced their beliefs and practices.
The Historical Context
The End of the Old Testament Era
The last book of the Old Testament, Malachi, was written around 430 B.C. After this, the Hebrew Bible remains silent for several centuries. Monarchies transitioned into periods of rule by foreign empires, beginning with the Babylonian exile. This also set the stage for the complex dynamics that would unfold during the intertestamental period.
The Rise of the Hellenistic Influence
With the conquest of Alexander the Great in the 4th century B.C., Greek culture spread rapidly. This Hellenistic influence changed the face of the known world, including Judea. The introduction of Greek language, philosophy, and customs created both challenges and opportunities for the Jewish people. Some embraced these new ideas, while others resisted, striving to maintain their traditions.
The Maccabean Revolt
In the 2nd century B.C., the Jewish population faced persecution under the Seleucid Empire, particularly under Antiochus IV Epiphanes. This led to the Maccabean Revolt (167-160 B.C.), where Jewish fighters, led by Judas Maccabeus, successfully reclaimed Jerusalem and rededicated the Temple. This event is celebrated during Hanukkah and marked a significant shift towards Jewish independence, albeit briefly.
The Establishment of the Hasmonean Dynasty
The success of the Maccabees allowed the establishment of the Hasmonean Dynasty. This ruling family presided over Judea but later became embroiled in conflicts and power struggles. Their reign laid the groundwork for varied sects among the Jewish people, such as the Pharisees and Sadducees, which played prominent roles during the New Testament period.
The Development of Jewish Sects
The Pharisees
The Pharisees are often noted as one of the most influential Jewish groups of the time. Their focus was on strict adherence to the Law and oral traditions. They believed in the resurrection of the dead and the existence of angels, which set them apart from other sects. Their teachings influenced many New Testament teachings, especially those of Jesus.
The Sadducees
In contrast to the Pharisees, the Sadducees held significant power, particularly within the priestly class. They did not believe in the resurrection or the afterlife, which often put them at odds with the Pharisees. Understanding the theological differences between these groups helps clarify many confrontations seen in the New Testament.
The Essenes
The Essenes were a more ascetic group, often associated with the Dead Sea Scrolls. They retreated from mainstream society to live in communal settings, dedicated to prayer and study of the Scriptures. Their emphasis on purity and the expectation of a coming Messiah added a unique perspective to the religious landscape of the time.
The Roman Context
Roman Conquest and Governance
By the first century B.C., the Roman Empire had conquered Judea, adding a new layer of complexity to the Jewish experience. Roman rule brought about new taxes, political turmoil, and a sense of oppression among the Jewish people, which fueled messianic hopes. Many were awaiting a messiah who would deliver them from Roman power.
The Influence of Roman Culture
As Rome expanded, it introduced its own customs and practices. The Greco-Roman culture, which included philosophy, literature, and practices from different religions, began to permeate Jewish society. This cultural blending made its way into the early Christianity movement, impacting how the Gospel was shared and understood.
Religious Texts and Literature
Development of the Apocrypha
During the intertestamental period, several books were written that are now classified as Apocrypha or Deuterocanonical. These texts, while not included in the Hebrew Bible, provide insight into the thoughts and beliefs of the Jewish people during this time. They often address themes such as prophecy, wisdom, and humanity’s relationship with God.
The Septuagint
The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, emerged in the 3rd century B.C. It became popular among Jews living in the diaspora and was instrumental in spreading Jewish scripture to the Gentile world. The Septuagint heavily influenced the New Testament writings, as many early Christians used it.
The Transition to the New Testament Era
The Time of Expectation
Entering the first century A.D., the Jewish people were steeped in a sense of expectation. Many believed that God would send a messiah to liberate them from Roman rule. This anticipation created fertile ground for the arrival of Jesus Christ and the spread of Christianity.
The Early Followers of Jesus
The teachings of Jesus and His followers built directly upon the expectations and beliefs cultivated during the intertestamental period. His messages spoke to themes of love, repentance, and the Kingdom of God. This revolutionary perspective attracted followers from both Jewish communities and Gentiles exploring the faith.
Conclusion: The Link Between Eras
The intertestamental period served to develop cultural and religious identities that shaped the New Testament background. The events, conflicts, and sects of this time influenced how the early church grew and defined itself in a challenging world. Understanding this era deepens our comprehension of the New Testament, as it reminds us of the tapestry of faith woven through history.
Common Questions Related to Intertestamental Period And New Testament Background
Q. What was the intertestamental period?
A. The intertestamental period is the time between the Old Testament and the New Testament, lasting about 400 years, filled with significant historical and cultural changes.
Q. Why is the intertestamental period important for understanding the New Testament?
A. It helps explain the religious, political, and cultural backdrop that influenced the beliefs and practices seen in the New Testament writings.
Q. What major events occurred during the intertestamental period?
A. Key events include the Maccabean Revolt, the rise of the Hasmonean Dynasty, and the establishment of various Jewish sects like the Pharisees and Sadducees.
Q. Who were the Pharisees?
A. The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish sect that emphasized strict adherence to Jewish law and oral traditions, playing a significant role during the New Testament.
Q. How did Hellenism affect Jewish culture?
A. Hellenism introduced Greek language and customs to Jewish society, leading to both acceptance and resistance among the Jewish population.
Q. What were the Dead Sea Scrolls?
A. The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish texts found near the Dead Sea, believed to have been written by the Essenes, reflecting their beliefs and practices.
Q. How did Roman rule affect Judea during the intertestamental period?
A. Roman conquest brought political oppression, heavy taxation, and cultural influence, leading many Jews to yearn for a messianic figure.
Q. What is the Septuagint?
A. The Septuagint is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, widely used among Jews in the diaspora and early Christians.
Q. What were the primary Jewish sects during the intertestamental period?
A. The main sects included the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes, each with distinct beliefs and practices.
Q. How did expectations of a messiah shape the New Testament?
A. Widespread anticipation for a messiah among Jews influenced how the teachings of Jesus were received and spread during the early church period.