People of Intertestamental Period

Question 1

Alexander (III) the Great

Answer 1

King of Macedonia and first king of the Macedonian/Greek empire. Conquered Persian empire in 331 BC. Began hellenization of much of the Middle East.

Question 2

Antiochus IV Epiphanes

Answer 2

King of Seleucid Syria. Enforced hellenization of the Jews, eventually outlawing Judaism. Defiled the Jerusalem temple in 167 BC. These programs led to the Maccabean revolt.

Question 3

Hasidim

Answer 3

(Heb. for “pious ones.”) Broadly, those Jews in Seleucid-controlled Palestine who resisted hellenization. More narrowly, a religious-political party at this time.

Question 4

Judas Maccabaeus

Answer 4

Leader of the Maccabaean revolt. Recaptured Jerusalem and cleansed and rededicated the temple in December 164 (origin of Hanukah).

Question 5

Pompey

Answer 5

Roman general. Conquered Seleucid Syria in 63 BC and made Judea vassal to Rome.

Question 6

Octavian

Answer 6

First Roman emperor. Adopted son of Julius Caesar. Defeated Antony & Cleopatra in 3rd Roman civil war, conquering Ptolemaic Egypt in 30 BC. Designated “Augustus” by the Senate in 27 BC. Ruled as emperor, 27 BC-AD 14.

Question 7

Herod the Great

Answer 7

Idumean politician and king of the Jews, 37-4 BC. Appointed tetrarch of Galilee by the Roman Senate in 42 BC and King of the Jews in 40. Defeated last Hasmonean, Antigonus, in 37, to secure rule. Greatly expanded and beautified the second Jerusalem temple. Slaughtered the innocents of Bethlehem.