The Origins of the Second Temple

The Origins of the Second Temple

Persion Imperial Policy and the Rebuilding of Jerusalem

by Diana Vikander Edelman

352 pages· 2014· ISBN 9781317491637
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Darius I, King of Persia, claimed to have rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem but this book argues that it was rebuilt under the reign of Artaxerxes I.

Discussion questions for The Origins of the Second Temple

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  1. 1

    How convincing do you find Diana Edelman’s central argument that the Second Temple was rebuilt under Artaxerxes I rather than Darius I? What specific textual, archaeological, or logical points did you find most compelling in her re-evaluation?

  2. 2

    Shifting the timeline of the Temple’s rebuilding has significant implications. What are some of the most profound consequences of Edelman’s revised chronology for our understanding of Judean history, the Persian Empire’s role, or the biblical narrative itself?

  3. 3

    Edelman’s work challenges a long-held historical and chronological understanding. Can you recall a time in your own life or studies when a widely accepted historical or scientific "truth" was overturned or significantly reinterpreted? How did that experience affect your perspective on knowledge and truth?

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