The developments in Judaism which occurred during the Second Temple period (c. 550 BC to 100 AD) were of great importance for the nature of Jewish religion in later centuries, yet few studies have examined the era in full. Now Lester L. Grabbe's lucid and accessible volume provides a much-needed encyclopedic study and holistic interpretation of the period.
Topics examined include:
* views about God and the spirit world
* the temple and priesthood
* scripture and synagogue
* the main religious sects and revolutionary movements
* eschatology and messianism
* magic and predicting the future
* religion in the Jewish diaspora
* converts and 'Godfearers'.
With an extensive, up-to-date bibliography, plus numerous helpful cross-references, summaries and syntheses, this book is essential reading for scholars and students of the history of Jewish religion. It will also be of great value as a reference tool.

Reviews

'... this is a very important reference work ... and can be trusted as a guide to the latest thinking in the vast area of study, having a breadth of discussion and extensive bibliography that makes it almost like an encyclopedia of Jewish religion in the period.' - Jason Bray, Journal of Theological Studies

'Because of the extremely well organised structure and lucid argument of the book, as well as the many references to recent studies, the work is bound to be a very important reference tool and handbook for those studying early Judiac religion.' - Review of Books

Book Information
ISBN 9780415642392
Author Lester L. Grabbe
Format Paperback
Page Count 448
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 830g