The Romans, Pt. 1 // Rome gained control over Israel through alliances with the Maccabees and appointed Herod the Great as king, who is known for rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem.

The Zealots // The Zealots were a Jewish sect with a strong commitment to liberty, opposition to foreign rule, strict religious observance, and a belief in a future Jewish salvation, often resorting to violent actions including terrorism, and influencing certain segments of the Jewish population.

The Essenes // The Essenes were known for communal living, beliefs in predestination, an emphasis on Scripture study, and fearlessness in the face of death.

The Sadducees // Like the Pharisees, the Sadducees emerged during turmoil but differed in their interpretation of Scripture, their realm of operation, and their attitude towards the gentile world. 

The Hasmonean Dynasty // The Hasmoneans, Maccabean rebels against Greek rule, fought for power, while the Pharisees opposed Hellenism, championing the Torah through the Synagogue, and seeking influence despite lacking direct power.