Uploaded: 28 Jun 2017 (9 years ago) · Shared: 29 Apr 2019
Duration: 22:21
Video Description
Explore the intersection of early history, ancient texts, and faith in this insightful presentation by Milwaukee Atheists focusing on the writings of Flavius Josephus. As one of the most prominent Jewish historians of the first century, Josephus is frequently cited in discussions surrounding the historical evidence for Prophet Jesus and early Christianity. This video examines the famous passages within his historical works, separating authentic accounts from later scribal additions.
By drawing on contemporary scholarly research, the discussion provides a nuanced perspective for followers of Judaism, Christianity, and secular history interested in how ancient records influence modern theological understanding. Whether you are studying the evolution of the early Church, exploring Biblical historicity, or examining the roots of Christian faith, this engaging analysis offers a thoughtful, evidence-based look at one of antiquity's most debated figures and his lasting impact on religious history.
Explore More
Josephus Atheism
JESUS
Search Google Search Explore Topics
Who was Josephus?Titus Flavius Josephus (37-100 AD), known as 'Josephus' was a first-century Romano-Jewish scholar. He was a 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 head of Jewish forces in Galilee, until surrendering in 67 CE to Roman forces led by Vespasian after the six-week siege of Jotapata. Josephus claimed 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 slave and presumably interpreter. After Vespasian became Emperor in 69 CE, 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.
What is Atheism?Atheism is, in the broadest sense, the absence of belief in the existence of deities. Less broadly, atheism is the rejection of belief that any deities exist. In an even narrower sense, atheism is specifically the position that there are no deities. Atheism is contrasted with theism, which, in its most general form, is the belief that at least one deity exists.
