Timeline Chart: Jewish relationship with Persia
Below is a timeline chart showing key events that outline the Jewish relationship with Persia during both positive and negative periods, accompanied by brief explanations of what happened during each phase. The relationship between the Jews and the Persian Empire shifted over time due to changes in leadership, politics, and external circumstances.
What this resource contributes
Below is a timeline chart showing key events that outline the Jewish relationship with Persia during both positive and negative periods, accompanied by brief explanations of what happened during each phase. The relationship between the Jews and the Persian Empire shifted over time due to changes in leadership, politics, and external circumstances. Year (BCE) Event Relationship Status Brief Explanation 539 BCE Cyrus the Great conquers Babylon Good Cyrus the Great of Persia conquers Babylon and issues the Edict of Cyrus , allowing the Jews to return to Judah from Babylonian exile and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1-4). This marks the beginning of a positive relationship as Cyrus is seen as a deliverer by the Jewish people. 538-515 BCE Rebuilding of the Second Temple Good Under Persian rule, the Jews are allowed to rebuild the Second Temple in Jerusalem.