Topical Encyclopedia The term "Dedication" in the context of the Second Temple primarily refers to the Jewish festival known as Hanukkah, which commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This event is rooted in the historical and religious developments during the intertestamental period, particularly the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire.Historical Background The Second Temple, originally constructed under the leadership of Zerubbabel and completed in 516 BC, became the center of Jewish worship and religious life. However, during the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the temple was desecrated. Antiochus sought to impose Hellenistic culture and religion upon the Jewish people, culminating in the erection of an altar to Zeus within the temple precincts and the prohibition of Jewish religious practices. In response, a Jewish priest named Mattathias and his sons, known as the Maccabees, led a revolt against the Seleucid forces. After a series of battles, the Maccabees successfully recaptured Jerusalem and the temple. The rededication of the temple took place in 164 BC, an event that is celebrated annually as Hanukkah. Biblical References While the festival of Hanukkah is not mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, it is referenced in the New Testament. In the Gospel of John, Jesus is depicted as being present in the temple during the Feast of Dedication: "At that time the Feast of Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple courts in Solomon’s Colonnade" (John 10:22-23). This passage highlights the significance of the festival during the time of Jesus and its observance by the Jewish community. Religious Significance The Dedication of the Second Temple is a powerful symbol of Jewish resilience and faithfulness to God's covenant. The Maccabean Revolt and the subsequent rededication of the temple are seen as acts of divine intervention and deliverance. The lighting of the menorah during Hanukkah serves as a reminder of the miracle of the oil, which, according to tradition, lasted eight days despite there being only enough oil for one day. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the Dedication of the Second Temple underscores themes of purification, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness. It reflects the ongoing struggle to maintain religious identity and purity in the face of external pressures and cultural assimilation. The event is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people and His dwelling place. Cultural and Liturgical Observance Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and the singing of hymns. It is a time of joy and remembrance, emphasizing the importance of religious freedom and the dedication of one's life to God. The festival has also taken on additional cultural significance, particularly in the Jewish diaspora, as a celebration of Jewish identity and heritage. In summary, the Dedication of the Second Temple is a pivotal event in Jewish history, symbolizing the restoration of worship and the enduring covenant between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of maintaining religious traditions in the face of adversity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezra 6:16,17And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Altar and Temple Index i. Of Subjects The Later Hebrew Histories. The Promise in 2 Samuel, Chap. vii. The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. Solomon's Temple Spiritualized The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire How Herod Celebrated the Games that were to Return Every Fifth ... From the Birth to the Ascension of Jesus. Resources What is Hanukkah? Should a Christian celebrate Hanukkah (Christmaskah)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a solemn assembly in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What was Zerubbabel's temple/the second temple? | GotQuestions.org Dedication: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Dedication by Idolaters in Setting up Idols Dedication of Property often Perverted Dedication of Samuel by his Mother Dedication of Self: Feast of Dedication Dedication of the Wall of Jerusalem Dedication: Consecration of a Place of Worship Dedication: Devoting Any Thing to Sacred Uses Dedication: Illustrated of Devotedness to God Dedication: Law Concerning Dedicated Things Dedication: Must be Without Blemish Dedication: Offering Must be Voluntary Dedication: Solemn Confirmation of a Covenant Dedication: Subjects of Houses when Built Dedication: Subjects of Persons Dedication: Subjects of Property Dedication: Subjects of Second Temple Dedication: Subjects of Spoils of War Dedication: Subjects of Tabernacle Dedication: Subjects of Temple of Solomon Dedication: Subjects of Tribute from Foreigners Dedication: Subjects of Walls of Cities Dedication: Things Dedicated to God for Support of Priests Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Applied to the Repair and Maintenance of the Temple Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Esteemed Holy Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Given to Propitiate Enemies Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Law Respecting the Release of Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Levites Place Over Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Placed With the Treasures of the Lord's House Dedication: Things Dedicated to God: Special Chambers Prepared For Related Terms Dedication-offering (3 Occurrences) Dedication-gift (3 Occurrences) Dedication-song (1 Occurrence) |
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