According to Leviticus 12, the presenting of the two turtledoves constituted the purification for childbirth. And in fact, the same thing seems to be implied concerning a woman’s menstrual period (Lev. 15:19ff.). Anyone who touches her or anything she has touched has to purify himself by washing, but nothing seems to be said about the woman washing herself at any time, either after childbirth or after her monthly period.
Did Jews in the first century know their tribal affiliation?
The New Testament mentions individuals who belonged to this or that tribe. Did Jews in the first century know their tribal affiliation, and did it affect people’s daily life in any way?
What are the names of the settlements of the twenty-four priestly divisions mentioned in 1 Chronicles 24?
The list of the priestly mishmarot (divisions, courses, watches) turned up on an inscription uncovered in the excavations at Caesarea in 1962.
I am teaching a class on Second Temple Jewish eschatology. Can you suggest a book or other source material that I could use?
I am teaching a class on Second Temple Jewish eschatology. Can you suggest a book or other source material that I could use?
A Divine Messiah?
A reader asks for information on the various Jewish sects’ views of the deity of the Messiah.