religion in later centuries, yet few studies have examined the era in full. Now Lester L. Grabbe's lucid and accessible volume provides a much-needed encyclopedic study and holistic interpretation of the period.Topics examined include:* views about God and the spirit world* the temple and priesthood* scripture and synagogue* the main religious sects and revolutionary movements* eschatology and messianism* magic and predicting the future* religion in the Jewish diaspora* converts and 'Godfearers'.With an extensive, up-to-date bibliography, plus numerous helpful cross-references, summaries and syntheses, this book is essential reading for scholars and students of the history of Jewish religion. It will also be of great value as a reference tool.

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