7.1 Roman conquest and administration

Rome's conquest of Judea in 63 BCE marked a turning point in the region's history. The Romans installed client kings like Herod the Great and later governed directly through prefects and procurators. This shift brought significant changes to the Holy Land's political landscape.

Roman rule introduced new infrastructure, urbanization, and cultural influences. While the Pax Romana brought stability and prosperity, it also led to tensions with the local Jewish population. These conflicts ultimately erupted into major revolts against Roman authority.

Roman Conquest and Administration

Pompey's Conquest and Herod's Rule

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• Pompey, a Roman general, conquered Jerusalem in 63 BCE, effectively ending the Hasmonean dynasty and bringing Judea under Roman control
• Herod the Great, an Idumean, was appointed as the client king of Judea by the Roman Senate in 37 BCE
• Herod's reign (37-4 BCE) was marked by grand building projects (Masada, Caesarea Maritima, and the expansion of the Second Temple) and a close relationship with Rome
• Herod's rule was also characterized by his ruthless suppression of opposition, including the execution of family members

Roman Administration of Judea

• After Herod's death, Judea was divided among his sons, but eventually came under direct Roman rule as a province in 6 CE
• Prefects (6-41 CE) and procurators (44-66 CE) were appointed by the Roman emperor to govern Judea
• These officials were responsible for maintaining order, collecting taxes, and administering justice
• Notable prefects and procurators include Pontius Pilate (26-36 CE), who presided over the trial of Jesus

Roman Provincial System

• The Roman Empire was divided into provinces, each governed by a Roman official (proconsul, legate, or procurator) appointed by the emperor or the Senate
• Provinces were classified as either imperial (under the emperor's direct control) or senatorial (under the Senate's jurisdiction)
• The provincial system allowed Rome to maintain control over vast territories, enforce Roman law, and extract resources through taxation and tribute

Roman Influence and Infrastructure

Pax Romana and Hellenization

• The Pax Romana (Roman Peace) was a period of relative stability and prosperity in the Roman Empire from 27 BCE to 180 CE
• This peace facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of ideas throughout the empire
• Hellenization, the spread of Greek language, culture, and customs, continued under Roman rule
• Many Jews adopted aspects of Hellenistic culture, such as speaking Greek and adopting Greek names, while still maintaining their Jewish identity

Roman Architecture and Urbanization

• Roman architecture in the Holy Land included grand public buildings, such as theaters, amphitheaters, and bathhouses (Caesarea Maritima)
• Caesarea Maritima, built by Herod the Great, served as the capital of the Roman province of Judea and featured a harbor, aqueduct, and a palace
• Roman urban planning involved the construction of cities with a grid layout, public spaces, and infrastructure
• The Romans also expanded and improved the road network in the Holy Land, facilitating trade, communication, and the movement of troops (Via Maris)

Roman Taxation System

• The Roman taxation system was a crucial aspect of imperial administration and a source of revenue for the empire
• Taxes were collected by local officials (publicans) who were often viewed as corrupt and oppressive by the local population
• Types of taxes included land taxes, head taxes (tributum capitis), and indirect taxes on goods and services
• The heavy tax burden and abuses by tax collectors were among the grievances that fueled Jewish resentment towards Roman rule

Jewish Resistance

Jewish Revolts against Roman Rule

• The First Jewish Revolt (66-73 CE) was a major uprising against Roman rule, triggered by religious tensions and anti-Roman sentiment
• The revolt led to the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem by Roman forces under Titus in 70 CE
• The Second Jewish Revolt, also known as the Bar Kokhba Revolt (132-135 CE), was led by Simon bar Kokhba and resulted in the suppression of Jewish autonomy and the renaming of Jerusalem as Aelia Capitolina

Masada: Symbol of Jewish Resistance

• Masada, a fortified palace complex built by Herod the Great, became a symbol of Jewish resistance during the First Jewish Revolt
• A group of Jewish rebels, known as the Sicarii, occupied Masada and held out against a prolonged Roman siege
• According to the historian Josephus, when defeat was imminent, the defenders chose to commit mass suicide rather than surrender to the Romans
• The story of Masada has become a symbol of Jewish heroism and resistance in the face of oppression