An Introduction to Early Judaism
- World Religions
- Publisher: Eerdmans
- Published: 2022
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Publisher's Description
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.
Endorsements (5)
“The second edition of James VanderKam’s Introduction to Early Judaism undoubtedly will enhance the impact of his first edition. His emphasis on archaeological discoveries and inclusion of more ancient literature are welcome additions, and the overall readability and organization of this work still makes it the most comprehensive and useful introduction to Second Temple studies. This resource is ideal for students and lay readers alike, whether interested in historical details or Jewish literary traditions. As one of the most respected Second Temple scholars today, VanderKam has done us a great service with this work by helping to sustain interest in our important discipline.”
“VanderKam’s Introduction to Early Judaism is a standard in the field—a wide-ranging, popular, informative, and accessible volume. A newly revised and expanded edition of it is a welcome addition, for students and teachers alike.”
“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.”
“A scholar at the forefront of today’s flourishing interest in the study of ancient Judaism, James VanderKam clearly explains Second Temple history and religion, including the period’s main groups and institutions and the entire range of literature they produced, from the Apocrypha to the Dead Sea Scrolls. The period VanderKam covers is vital to understanding all subsequent Jewish and Christian history, and his introduction to it is complete, accessible, and overall top-notch.”
“James VanderKam has written a superb introduction to early Judaism, including its history, literature, and religious institutions—a handbook that will be useful to every student or scholar who is interested in this period. VanderKam’s sketch of the history and literature of the period is written simply and precisely, unencumbered by footnotes. His book, however, reveals a full, critical knowledge of the field. His epitomes of the literature of the period are particularly well done—brief, generally conservative in discussing debated issues, leaving out little of importance. New lore from the Dead Sea Scrolls and data from recent excavations are also well treated. I recommend this volume without qualification.”
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