Bablyonian Captivity

The Babylonian Captivity refers to the period around 586 BCE when the Babylonians conquered the Kingdom of Judah, destroyed the First Temple in Jerusalem, and exiled many Jews to Babylon. This event disrupted Jewish life and faith but also led to significant religious reflection and the development of texts like the Hebrew Bible. The exile lasted about 50 years until the Persians, led by King Cyrus, allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their temple. This period is a pivotal event in Jewish history, symbolizing both suffering and resilience.