An Extract Out of Josephus' Discourse to the Greeks Concerning Hades

by Flavius Josephus

Titus Flavius Josephus (37 – circa 100) was a Roman-Jewish historian in the 1st-century AD. Josehpus wrote much about the first Jewish-Roman War and strongly advocated Hellenistic Judaism. Josephus’ best known works are The Wars of the Jews and Antiquities of the Jews.

This version of An Extract Out of Josephus’ Discourse to the Greeks Concerning Hades includes a table of contents.

7 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 100

About the author

Titus Flavius Josephus was a 1st-century Romano-Jewish historian and hagiographer who was born in Jerusalem - then part of Roman Judea - to a father of priestly descent and a mother who claimed royal ancestry.

He initially fought against the Romans during the First Jewish–Roman War as the head of Jewish forces in Galilee, until surrendering in 67 to Roman forces led by Vespasian after the six-week siege of Jotapata. Josephus claims the Jewish Messianic prophecies that initiated the First Roman-Jewish War made reference to Vespasian becoming Emperor of Rome. In response Vespasian decided to keep Josephus as a hostage and interpreter. After Vespasian did become Emperor in 69, he granted Josephus his freedom, at which time Josephus assumed the emperor's family name of Flavius.

Flavius Josephus fully defected to the Roman side and was granted Roman citizenship. He became an advisor and friend of Vespasian's son Titus, serving as his translator when Titus led the Siege of Jerusalem, which resulted -- when the Jewish revolt did not surrender -- in the city's destruction and the looting and destruction of Herod's Temple (Second Temple).

Josephus recorded Jewish history, with special emphasis on the 1st century AD and the First Jewish–Roman War, including the Siege of Masada, but the imperial patronage of his work has sometimes caused it to be characterized as pro-Roman propaganda.

His most important works were The Jewish War (c. 75) and Antiquities of the Jews (c. 94). The Jewish War recounts the Jewish revolt against Roman occupation (66–70). Antiquities of the Jews recounts the history of the world from a Jewish perspective for an ostensibly Roman audience. These works provide valuable insight into 1st century Judaism and the background of Early Christianity.

Alternate spelling:
Flávio Josefo (Romance languages)

Reviews

[Rex Libris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the book I thought it was, or perhaps, not a book. I did not realize it when I downloaded it that it was only 5 pages.

But it was a good 5 pages. Josephus outlines a mostly Judeo-Christian view of hell, the afterlife, and the resurrection of the body.

[Cory Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little perplexed

Is this the same Jewish fellow who wrote about the history of the Jews? Many had said that he was not a Christian and yet he give Jesus prominence in this short book.

[Timothy Coplin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Concise treatment on the topic. Beginning with the general and progressing to the particular on both ends of the spectrum, Josephus concludes his discourse with a proclamation of the gospel.

I'd like to see a reformed response to this with scripture references included as evidence to the argument.

[DOUGLAS J BERRY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah, avoid sin.

Flavius Josephus. Survived rebelling against the Roman Empire. Seems like he survived exodus as well. He's telling the Greeks to avoid sophistry and focus on a sin free life. .....

[Shane Williamson · Rating 3 out of 5]

2024 reads: 40

Rating: 3 stars

Heavily redacted by later Christians. Hard to say how much of this is Josephus. However THAT it was amenable to early Christians is very telling and would make for a good discussion around justification, works, virtue, etc.

[Tamra LeValley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Josephus' great words

What a wonderful and enlightening read. I am in awe at the insightful words that correspond with the words of the bible yet are also so differently placed. AMEN

[karin richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Timely, truth

Recommend to all people of faith, to understand Christianity you must be grounded and rooted in Judaism. Hear o Israel the Lord our God is one.

[Славея Котова · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was interesting to read, but too short to describe the real world of Hades.

[michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Puzzle of ancient history

Pieces together the understanding. Helps you understand something you weren't there to witness. Abide in the lessons of God almighty.

[Ed Walker · Rating 2 out of 5]

PG download.