Step into the streets, homes, and synagogues of first-century Palestine and discover the world that shaped the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. In Sketches of Jewish Social Life in the Days of Christ, renowned scholar Alfred Edersheim offers a vivid, detailed portrait of Jewish customs, family life, education, religious practice, and social structure during the time of the New Testament.
This annotated edition brings fresh clarity to Edersheim’s classic work, providing context and explanation where needed, while remaining true to the original author's commitment to historical accuracy and biblical fidelity. Whether exploring the upbringing of Jewish children, the influence of the Pharisees, or the social and political tensions under Roman rule, each chapter draws readers deeper into a richer understanding of Scripture.
Essential for pastors, students, and serious Bible readers, this book will help you interpret the New Testament with greater insight—rooted in the real world in which Jesus lived and taught.
Alfred Edersheim (1825–1889) was a Jewish-born biblical scholar and theologian who converted to Christianity and became one of the 19th century’s most respected authorities on Jewish history and customs. Educated in Vienna, Edinburgh, and Oxford, Edersheim served as both a minister and a lecturer, combining pastoral insight with rigorous scholarship. He is best known for his enduring works The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, The Temple: Its Ministry and Services, and Sketches of Jewish Social Life. His writings draw deeply from rabbinic literature, archaeology, and Scripture, making them indispensable resources for understanding the Jewish background of the New Testament.