world of Jesus, The
Book Description
Professor John Kenneth Riches invites readers into the complex world that shaped one of history's most influential spiritual teachers. This scholarly exploration reveals how first-century Judaism faced unprecedented challenges as foreign powers threatened to erode centuries of cultural and religious tradition.
Through careful examination of the social, economic, and political forces at work during this pivotal era, Riches illuminates the diverse responses that emerged within Jewish communities. He traces the distinct approaches of major groups including the Pharisees, Sadducees, Zealots, and Essenes, as well as the revolutionary message of John the Baptist, showing how each sought to preserve their heritage while adapting to changing circumstances.
At the heart of this investigation lies a compelling portrait of Jesus as a figure deeply rooted in Jewish values and traditions. Rather than presenting him as separate from his cultural context, Riches demonstrates how Jesus' teachings both honored ancient wisdom and proposed transformative changes he believed would bring spiritual renewal to his people.
For readers seeking to understand the historical foundations of spiritual transformation, this work offers valuable insights into how communities navigate the tension between preserving sacred traditions and embracing necessary change. The book provides a nuanced view of how spiritual movements emerge from specific cultural moments while addressing universal human needs for meaning and renewal.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~4 hours)
📄 Length: 151 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore JudaÃsmo
- ✓ Explore Kultur
- ✓ Explore Judaism
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Biblia
- ✓ Explore Geschichte 586 v. Chr.-210
- ✓ Explore Judaïsme
- ✓ Explore Histoire