2nd Temple Built

Southern Israelites focused worship to one main site in Jerusalem, whereas Northern Israelites continued to worship in at least 3 different mountains, which had altars built by prophets and patriarchs. Ezra and Nehemiah intentionally reject Samaritans. Non-Christian scholar says, "Jewish communities thrived in the diaspora (in Egypt, Babylon, Asia Minor, and beyond) where they creatively adapted their traditions to new settings, often translating sacred texts into Greek and engaging with surrounding cultures.

Throughout this time, the memory of the Temple and the land of Israel remained powerful symbols, even for those who lived far from them. Still, the lived reality of Judaism evolved and expanded, responding to new circumstances while staying rooted in ancient narratives."-Bart D. Ehrman