Guide
Activities of the Priests
1st Century
Both Philo and Josephus emphasize the exalted status and cosmic role of the priests and distinguish the Jewish Temple cult from the cults of other peoples. Philo suggests that the high priest prays and offers sacrifices not only on behalf of the Jewish people but also on behalf of the whole world, because he is in some sense the priest of the entire world. Josephus explains that there is one Jewish Temple because there is one God and that all the priests, led by the high priest, take part in Temple worship.
Related Primary Sources
Primary Source
The High Priest as Priest of the World
There is also a third truth symbolized by the holy vesture which must not be passed over in silence. Among the other nations the priests are accustomed to offer prayers and sacrifices for their…
Primary Source
The Priestly Rotations and Duties
For even if there were four tribes of priests and each of these tribes had more than five thousand men, they would observe their offices, nevertheless, at specifically assigned times for a…