Essenes Gather to Read Scripture

Philo

That Every Good Person Is Free 12.81–83

First Half of 1st Century

In these they are instructed at all other times, but particularly on the seventh days. For that day has been set apart to be kept holy and on it they abstain from all other work and proceed to sacred spots which they call synagogues. There, arranged in rows according to their ages, the younger below the elder, they sit decorously as befits the…

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Related Guide

The Ancient Synagogue

4th Century BCE–6th Century CE
A carved stone object with detailed reliefs, including menorahs and arches, resting on four short legs, sits on a dirt floor among weathered stone blocks and ruins.
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Related Guide

The Early Synagogue: Where Scripture Is Read

1st–6th Centuries

Creator Bio

Philo

ca. 25 BCE–ca. 40

Philo of Alexandria was one of the most important figures in Hellenistic Judaism and a significant influence on early Christianity. Raised in a wealthy Jewish family and educated in Greek rhetoric and logic, Philo served as a delegate to Rome on behalf of the Jewish community of Alexandria. Most innovative among his writings are his commentaries on the Pentateuch, which approach the text allegorically and employ various Platonic perspectives in their interpretations. Philo appears to have had only minimal exposure to the Hebrew and likely relied on the Septuagint and synagogue orations on the biblical texts.

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