Shaye J. D. Cohen Book order (chronological)

Focusing on the evolution of Judaism during the Roman Empire and the emergence of rabbinic Judaism, this updated edition delves into the intricate interplay between Jews and Gentiles, the role of Jewish religion in society, and the rise of various Jewish sects. Shaye Cohen's comprehensive analysis combines religious, literary, and historical perspectives, offering clarity on the biblical canon's formation and the foundations of rabbinic thought. This work serves as an essential introduction to the historical context that influenced both Judaism and early Christianity.

This is the story of the adventures and misadventures of the Jewish people in the land of Egypt. The author uses the clear light of scientific analysis and archaeological research to illuminate the reality underlying the images from the Biblical accounts and Jewish and pagan literary texts, through the great “love affair” between Jews and Hellenic culture. It ends with the brief but crucial episode when budding Christianity and the Alexandrian Jews parted company.