Herod's Judaea

Viac o knihe

Samuel Rocca provides a comprehensive analysis of Herodian society, focusing on the relationship between Herod as ruler and his Jewish subjects. To grasp this dynamic, it is essential to explore the broader context of Herodian Judaea and its connections with the classical world, particularly Augustan Rome and other Mediterranean centers. Rocca argues that, despite being a Jewish ruler, Herod viewed figures like Alexander the Great and Augustus as ideal models to emulate, which significantly shaped the societal structure of Herodian Judaea. Herod's reign marked an intensified trend toward Hellenization, influenced by his dominance over Judaean society, allowing him to dictate socio-cultural trends more effectively than Augustus could in Rome. The study examines Herod's role as the leader of Jewish society, delving into the Herodian ideology of rule, the court, the army, administration, economy, political bodies, urban life, religion, and burial customs. By situating Herodian Judaea within the Mediterranean context, Rocca aims to illuminate its complexities and connections to Hellenistic Roman civilization, moving beyond a simplistic biblical perspective to reveal its multifaceted dimensions in the contemporary world.