Second Temple Judaism

Church history · Updated April 23, 2026

Overview

The discovery of The Dead Sea Scrolls in the 20th century uncovered an aspect of Jewish history: during the Second Temple period, there were multiple Jewish sects with diverse beliefs and practices. Ancient texts, hidden away in the caves of Qumran, provided a window into the religious landscape of Judea between 516 BCE and 70 CE. The scrolls revealed the existence of groups like the Essenes, who lived in strict communal settings and adhered to a unique interpretation of Jewish law. Diversity highlighted the vibrant and often contentious nature of Jewish religious life during a period marked by cultural and political changes.

A series of critical events and influences defined the Second Temple period and shaped Jewish society. After the rebuilding of the Temple in 516 BCE, the Jewish people experienced various cultural shifts, particularly due to the Hellenistic influence following Alexander the Great's conquests. This led to tensions between Jews who embraced Greek customs and those who resisted them. The Maccabean Revolt from 167 to 160 BCE was an uprising against the Seleucid Empire's attempts to impose Hellenistic practices, culminating in the rededication of the Temple and the celebration of Hanukkah. As different sects emerged, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Zealots, each group developed distinct religious views and social agendas. The Roman capture of Jerusalem in 63 BCE further complicated the situation, as it introduced another layer of foreign influence and control over Judea.

Today, The Dead Sea Scrolls remain a crucial source for understanding the complexities of Second Temple Judaism. They provide evidence that the period was not monolithic but rather composed of competing ideas and practices. The scrolls have helped historians and scholars piece together a more detailed picture of Jewish life before the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE by the Romans. This historical narrative continues to be studied and expanded upon, offering insights into the roots of modern Judaism and the diverse heritage of the Jewish people.

The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the 20th century, revealed that there were multiple Jewish sects with differing beliefs during the Second Temple period.

Source: Met · CC0

Key facts

Second Temple Period: The Second Temple period lasted from 516 BCE, when the Temple was rebuilt after the Babylonian exile, until 70 CE, when it was destroyed by the Romans.
Diverse Jewish Sects: During this time, there were several Jewish sects, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Zealots, each with distinct beliefs and practices.
Hellenistic Influence: The influence of Hellenistic culture was significant during this period, especially after the conquests of Alexander the Great, leading to tensions between traditionalists and those adopting Greek customs.
The Maccabean Revolt: The Maccabean Revolt (167-160 BCE) was a Jewish rebellion against Seleucid rule, leading to the rededication of the Temple, an event commemorated by the festival of Hanukkah.
Roman Occupation: In 63 BCE, the Roman general Pompey captured Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Roman influence and eventual control over Judea.

Context

Second Temple Judaism refers to the period in Jewish history from the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem to its destruction by the Romans. This era was marked by significant religious and cultural developments, including the emergence of various Jewish sects. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls has provided valuable insights into the diversity of beliefs and practices among Jews during this time.