70 CE

Definition

70 CE marks a pivotal year in Jewish history, primarily known for the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem by the Roman Empire. This event not only signified the end of the Jewish sacrificial system that was central to worship but also represented a turning point in Jewish identity and religion, leading to a shift towards rabbinic Judaism and the compilation of oral traditions. The destruction set the stage for significant social, political, and religious changes within Judaism and Jewish communities worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Roman siege of Jerusalem lasted several months, ultimately leading to widespread famine and suffering among the city's inhabitants.
2. The destruction of the Second Temple resulted in significant changes in Jewish worship practices, as sacrificial offerings were no longer possible.
3. This event led to a major shift from temple-centric worship to a focus on prayer and study in local synagogues.
4. The fall of Jerusalem also marked the beginning of a long period of diaspora for Jews, scattering communities across different regions.
5. The writings of Josephus, a Jewish historian, provide valuable insights into the events surrounding 70 CE and the impact it had on Jewish society.

Review Questions

• How did the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE influence Jewish religious practices?
  • The destruction of the Second Temple fundamentally altered Jewish religious practices by eliminating the sacrificial system that had been central to worship. With no temple to offer sacrifices, Jewish worship shifted towards prayer and community gatherings in synagogues. This transition paved the way for Rabbinic Judaism, which emphasized study and interpretation of texts rather than reliance on temple rituals.
• Evaluate the social and political consequences of 70 CE for Jewish communities both in Judea and in the diaspora.
  • The events of 70 CE had profound social and political consequences for Jewish communities. In Judea, there was a dramatic loss of life and upheaval due to the Roman military action. As a result, many Jews were displaced, leading to increased migration into diaspora communities where Jews began to adapt their practices. The loss of the Temple unified scattered Jewish communities around new centers of learning and religious authority, reshaping their identities and traditions.
• Analyze how 70 CE represents a turning point for Judaism in relation to its historical development and identity.
  • The year 70 CE symbolizes a critical turning point in Jewish history as it marked both an end and a new beginning. The destruction of the Second Temple not only eliminated a cornerstone of ancient Jewish worship but also forced a reevaluation of Jewish identity. This led to the emergence of Rabbinic Judaism, which emphasized community learning and adaptation rather than temple-centered rituals. Consequently, this transformation laid the groundwork for modern Judaism's diverse expressions while fostering resilience among Jewish communities facing challenges throughout history.

Related terms

Second Temple: The Second Temple was built in Jerusalem after the return from Babylonian exile and served as the central place of worship for the Jewish people until its destruction in 70 CE.

Rabbinic Judaism: Rabbinic Judaism emerged after the destruction of the Second Temple, focusing on the study of Torah and Talmud, and establishing new forms of religious life without a central temple.

Siege of Jerusalem: The Siege of Jerusalem refers to the military blockade by Roman forces against the city during the First Jewish-Roman War, culminating in the destruction of the Second Temple.