The Temple’s Fate Realized

Josephus

The Jewish War 6.267–295, 315–317

ca. 75

The Fate of the Temple

6.267–287

While there must be deep mourning for the loss of this marvellous building—a monument more remarkable than any of which we have had sight or report for the quality of its structure, the size of it, the richness of every detail, and the fame of…
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Josephus describes the burning of the Temple and the ensuing tragedy as predetermined, presenting a number of the portents that—had they been properly interpreted—would have served as a warning to the Jews that their rebellion would fail.

After the Temple falls, the Romans sacrifice to their standards—that is, not to God—and thereby commit sacrilege on Temple grounds.

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Related Guide

The Early Roman Period in History and Memory

1st Century BCE–3rd Century CE
Ancient, weathered stone relief showing people in robes carrying a large menorah and other objects in a procession.
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Related Guide

The First Jewish Revolt

66–73

Trace the causes and battles of the First Jewish Revolt, from the siege of Jerusalem to the destruction of the Temple and the fall of Masada.

Creator Bio

Josephus

37–100
Flavius Josephus was born into a prominent Jewish priestly family and served as a general stationed in the Galilee during the First Jewish Revolt (66–73 CE). He was captured by the Romans and eventually integrated into the Flavian imperial aristocracy, who commissioned him to compose chronicles of the Jewish–Roman war and the history of the Jews. Josephus’ works, all written in Greek, include The Jewish War, Jewish Antiquities, Against Apion, and his autobiography, Life of Josephus. These writings provide important insights into the Judaisms of the Second Temple period and include one of the few surviving accounts of the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE.

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