Judaism
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What Are the Major World Religions?
Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction The term “major world religions” refers to religious traditions with substantial global influence, historical depth, and significant numbers of adherents. These religions have shaped civilisations, cultural identities, and moral systems across history. This analysis outlines: 2. Criteria for “Major World Religions” 2.1 Demographic Size Religions…
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How Are Monotheistic Religions (Christianity, Islam, Judaism) Similar and Different?
Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, often termed the Abrahamic religions, share historical and theological roots yet differ in doctrines, practices, and interpretations of revelation. This analysis examines: 2. Core Similarities 2.1 Monotheism All affirm belief in One God: 2.2 Abrahamic Lineage All trace spiritual heritage to…
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Article 13: Pharisees and Sadducees – Religious and Theological Disputes in Second Temple Judaism
1. IntroductionWithin the religious landscape of Second Temple Judaism, the Pharisees and Sadducees were two prominent groups whose theological and political differences often brought them into conflict. Though both groups were influential contemporaneously, their disputes reveal tensions within the Jewish religious leadership during the time of Jesus and the early…
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PART VII: Hellenistic and Hasmonean Period (332–63 BCE)
Alexander the Great and Hellenisation Historical Overview of the Hellenistic ConquestThe Hellenistic period begins with the conquests of Alexander the Great, who in 332 BCE swiftly incorporates the region of Judea into his expanding Macedonian-Greek empire. After defeating the Persian Empire, Alexander brings vast territories—including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Levant—under…
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Ministry, Crucifixion, and Resurrection of Jesus
Jesus in the First-Century Jewish ContextThe life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth must be understood within the complex socio-religious context of first-century Second Temple Judaism, a period marked by Roman occupation, theological diversity, messianic anticipation, and profound national longing. Born into a Jewish family in Roman-controlled Judea, Jesus lived…
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PART IX: Rabbinic Judaism and the Global Diaspora (135–1800s CE)
Rise of Rabbinic Literature and Yeshivas Historical Context: From Temple to TextFollowing the catastrophic defeat in the Bar Kokhba Revolt (132–135 CE) and the destruction of the Second Temple (70 CE), Jewish life entered a new phase characterised by dispersion, decentralisation, and adaptation. Without a Temple, priesthood, or homeland, the…