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Sabbath and synagogue

By Heather A. McKay

Book Description

Heather A. McKay challenges one of the most fundamental assumptions about ancient Jewish religious practice in this groundbreaking scholarly examination. Through meticulous analysis of historical sources, including writings by Philo and Josephus, classical authors, Jewish inscriptions, and the Mishnah, McKay reveals a startling discovery about early Jewish worship patterns.

The widely accepted image of Jews gathering in synagogue buildings for communal Sabbath worship appears to lack historical foundation. McKay's research demonstrates that first-century Sabbath gatherings focused primarily on studying religious law rather than liturgical activities like psalm recitation or communal prayer. Classical sources suggest Jews typically observed the Sabbath at home, while archaeological evidence from prayer-houses shows no indication of special Sabbath worship practices.

Even more provocatively, McKay questions whether synagogue buildings as we understand them existed at all during this period, noting that "synagogue" originally referred to the community itself rather than a physical structure. Her conclusion that communal Jewish Sabbath worship cannot be documented before 200 CE carries profound implications for understanding the relationship between early Jewish and Christian communities.

This scholarly investigation offers readers interested in spiritual history and religious development a fresh perspective on how worship practices evolved. McKay's careful examination of primary sources provides valuable insights into the authentic nature of ancient Jewish religious life and its influence on emerging Christian traditions.