The division of Jews and Christians was a long and by no means mono-linear process which took place at different locations and at different speeds and was not consciously promoted by either party. How closely early Christianity was associated with Judaism, why there was a eventually a parting of ways and why Christians continue to refer to their Jewish roots can only be understood in the context of the merging of political, sociological, economic and religious patterns. In this synopsis of texts, archaeological finds, sociological background and theological debate Tiwald paints a picture of early Judaism, which was to become the matrix for later Christianity.

Prof. Dr. Markus Tiwald teaches New Testament at the University of Vienna.