New Testament Chapter 1

Explanation
Palestine is adapted to be the home of Judaism and the universalism of Christianity. Palestine is historically significant as it is the birthplace of both Judaism and Christianity. It is the land where important religious figures such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus lived and preached. The region of Palestine holds religious significance for both Jews and Christians, making it the ideal home for these two major religions.

Explanation
The Ptolemaic dynasty was the most important to Palestine because they ruled over the region during a significant period of its history. The Ptolemaic dynasty was established after Alexander the Great's death and lasted for nearly three centuries. They were of Greek origin and their rule brought about a period of Hellenistic influence in Palestine. The Ptolemies were known for their patronage of arts and sciences, as well as their administration and infrastructure development. Their rule had a lasting impact on the culture, economy, and political landscape of Palestine.

Explanation
The political situation took a turn for the worse under Antiochus Epiphanes after 175 BC. This suggests that there was a significant event or series of events that occurred during or after this time period that negatively impacted the political climate. Without further context, it is difficult to determine the specific reasons for this decline, but it could be attributed to factors such as conflicts, power struggles, or policies implemented by Antiochus Epiphanes.

Explanation
The Maccabean Revolt began around 165-166 BC. This statement is true. The Maccabean Revolt was a Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire, led by the Maccabees, a Jewish priestly family. It started in 167 BC when the Seleucid king Antiochus IV Epiphanes outlawed Judaism and desecrated the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. The revolt lasted for several years and eventually resulted in the establishment of an independent Jewish state in Judea. The correct answer is true.

Explanation
The Sadducees were the closest group related to the Maccabean Priest. The Pharisees were another prominent Jewish group during that time, but they had different beliefs and practices compared to the Maccabean Priest. The Essenes were also a Jewish sect, but they were known for their ascetic lifestyle and were not directly related to the Maccabean Priest. Therefore, the Sadducees were the closest group in terms of their connection to the Maccabean Priest.

Explanation
Pompey took possession of Jerusalem in 63 BC. He was a Roman general and statesman who played a significant role in the late Roman Republic. Pompey's capture of Jerusalem marked the end of the Hasmonean dynasty and the beginning of Roman rule over Judea. This event had a lasting impact on the region and set the stage for the eventual Roman occupation of Jerusalem.

Explanation
The correct answer is "herodian." The Herodian dynasty refers to the ruling family of Herod the Great and his descendants, who governed the region of Judea during the time of Jesus' ministry. Herod the Great was appointed by the Roman Empire as the king of Judea, and his family continued to hold power in the region until the Roman annexation in 6 AD. Therefore, Jesus' ministry took place under the Herodian dynasty.

Explanation
The word "ethnarch" means both "chief" and "governor". It is a term used to describe a leader or ruler who governs a specific ethnic or cultural group. As an ethnarch, the individual holds authority and power over their people, acting as both a chief and a governor in terms of leadership and governance.

Explanation
The correct answer is Aramaic. Aramaic was the common language in Palestine during the time period in question. It was widely spoken and understood by the people living in the region. Greek and Hebrew were also spoken in Palestine, but Aramaic was the dominant language at that time.

Explanation
Jesus' native language was Aramaic. This is supported by historical and biblical evidence. Aramaic was the common language spoken in the region of Palestine during Jesus' time. It was the language spoken by the local Jewish population, including Jesus and his disciples. The New Testament also includes instances where Jesus spoke Aramaic, such as when he addressed people or performed miracles. Additionally, the Gospels mention Aramaic words that Jesus used, which were later translated into Greek. Therefore, based on these reasons, it can be concluded that Aramaic was Jesus' native language.