Judaeans

Judaeans refers to the inhabitants of the ancient region of Judea. This term broadly encompasses the Jewish people who originated from this land, particularly during the First and Second Temple periods. The historical and cultural identity of the Judaeans is deeply intertwined with the Kingdom of Judah, which existed in the southern Levant from approximately the 10th century BCE until its destruction by the Neo-Babylonian Empire in 586 BCE. Following this destruction, many Judaeans were exiled to Babylon, an event known as the Babylonian Exile.

The return of some Judaeans from exile and the subsequent rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem marked a significant period in their history. During this time, the identity of the people and the region became increasingly associated with their religious practices and adherence to Mosaic Law. The term "Judaean" continued to be used to describe the inhabitants of Judea, which later became a Roman province.

The Judaeans played a pivotal role in the development of Judaism, influencing its theology, law, and cultural traditions. Their history is a central narrative in the Hebrew Bible and has profoundly shaped the religious and cultural landscape of the world. The concept of Judaean identity evolved over centuries, adapting to various political and social circumstances, but always retaining a connection to their ancestral homeland and religious heritage.