Christianity -life under Romans Flashcards
What was life like under the Romans?
Roman army had conquered Jewish land and Jewish people had to live under the laws and rules of the Roman Empire
Romans worshipped many gods.
Life could be good if you adapted to their ways: baths, entertainments etc BUT many Jews hated the Romans for occupying their land and enforcing many strict (non-Jewish) rules and punishments.
Jewish people hoped a great leader would be sent by God to help them.
Each group hoped for a different Saviour…
Who were the Essenes?
Group of holy people who lived together in the desert separate from others.
Their life was simple, strict and deeply religious.
They do not drink wine, eat forbidden foods and kept to the 10 Commandments.
They helped the sick and strangers.
Who were the Sadducees?
The Sadducees were the richest and most powerful group of Jews, they were priests and aristocrats.
They kept their wealth and power by bribing the Romans.
The Sadducees believed bin negotiating and civilised discussions with the Roman leaders.
Who were the Pharisees?
The Pharisees were a group of jews who followed all 613 Jewish laws.
The Pharisees read the laws and told other people exactly what they could or could not do.
They believed that all Jews should be made to keep Jewish laws.
Who were the Zealots?
Zealots believed in using violence.
They had a Zeal for God
They thought only war and armed rebellion would get rid of the romans.
They were called “freedom fighters” or “terrorists’.
