An Introduction to Early Judaism, 2nd ed.

by James C. VanderKam

Publisher:

Eerdmans

, 2022

Overview

Based on the best archaeological research, this volume explores the history of Judaism during the Second Temple period (516 BCE–70 CE), describing the body of Jewish literature written during these centuries and the most important groups, institutions, and practices of the time. Particularly interesting are VanderKam’s depiction of events associated with Masada and, more briefly, the Bar Kokhba revolt—as well as his commentary on texts unearthed in places like Elephantine and Qumran.

Now in its second edition, with additional material and updated throughout, this book remains the preeminent guide to early Judaism for anyone looking for a text that is concise and accessible while still comprehensive—and written by one of the foremost experts in the field.

Key Features

• Explores the history of Judaism during the Second Temple period>
• Examines the body of Jewish literature written during these centuries
• Second edition features additional material and updates throughout

Contents

• The Time of the Second Temple
• Jewish Literature of the Second Temple Period
• Great Archaeological Discoveries
• Synthesis: Leaders, Groups, and Institutions

Top Highlights

“According to Josephus, this Sanballat threw his support to Alexander, and Alexander gave him permission to build a temple in his territory. Sanballat invited the brother of Jaddua to marry his daughter and become the high priest of his new temple. This is supposed to be the origin of a temple in the area of Samaria.” (Page 7)

“The age after Alexander is known as the Hellenistic period, a time when aspects of Greek culture and knowledge of the Greek language became widespread and dominant.” (Page 11)

“This Greek Bible, in various forms, became the Scriptures of Hellenistic Judaism and later of the early Christian church” (Page 13)

“in the sixth year of King Darius (516/515 BCE; Ezra 6:15), thus inaugurating the era known as the Second Temple period.” (Page 2)

“Neither Esther nor Mordecai appears in extrabiblical historical sources about King Xerxes” (Page 11)

Praise for the Print Edition

A fine and accessible introduction to early Judaism. . . . Elementary but elegant, this primer is perfect for classroom or individual use.

—Publishers Weekly

One of the best-written exemplars of its genre. Both its didactic structure and enjoyable style make it capable of being a widely read scholarly best-seller.

—Journal for the Study of Judaism

Combining meticulous historical reconstruction with detailed commentary on literary productions and archaeological remains, James VanderKam here offers a comprehensive introduction to early Judaism that places texts within their proper contexts. His accessible, engaging style and helpful organization make this volume ideal for classroom use.

—Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt University

Product Details

• Title: An Introduction to Early Judaism (Second Edition)
• Author: James C. VanderKam
• Edition: Second Edition
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Print Publication Date: 2022
• Logos Release Date: 2022
• Pages: 239
• Era: era:contemporary
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Reader Edition
• Subjects: Jews › History--586 B.C.-70 A.D; Judaism › History--Post-exilic period, 586 B.C.-210 A.D; Bible. O.T. Apocrypha › Criticism, interpretation, etc; Apocryphal books (Old Testament › Criticism, interpretation, etc.)
• ISBNs: 9780802880161, 0802880169
• Resource ID: LLS:NNTRDCTNRLY2NDD
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2023-10-03T20:06:17Z

About James C. VanderKam

James C. VanderKam is John A. O’Brien Professor of Hebrew Scriptures at the University of Notre Dame. He has edited twelve volumes in the series Discoveries in the Judaean Desert and is a member of the editorial committee for the remaining unpublished Dead Sea scrolls. He is one of the two editors in chief of the Encyclopedia of the Dead Sea Scrolls (2000) and author of the prize-winning The Dead Sea Scrolls Today (1994), From Revelation to Canon: Studies in the Hebrew Bible and Second Temple Literature (2000), An Introduction to Early Judaism (2001), The Meaning of the Dead Sea Scrolls (2002), and From Joshua to Caiaphas: High Priests after the Exile (Fortress Press, 2004). Prof. VanderKam is the editor of the Journal of Biblical Literature.