Aspects of Development of Jewish Political Messianic Idea after the Bar Kokhba Revolt

Abstract

The second Jewish revolt against the Romans has significantly influenced the shaping
of subsequent Jewish messianic and eschatological thought. Largely due to the
Revolt, mainstream Judaism has adopted a passive messianic attitude, and Jewish ambitions to reestablish statehood in Palestine has almost entirely subsided. Historical experience of the Bar–Kokhba revolt combined with the Jewish perception of history, as relevant to theological epistemology, has produced faith–based political quietism which marked Judaism for centuries. The attitude of religious Jews to political Zionism, when it first appeared, was very averse and remained such until rather recently. Change in the attitude was prompted by the same reason, which is historical experience of the establishment and defense of the State of Israel.