The Silent Years
The Silent Years refer to the roughly four centuries spanning from the time of the prophet Malachi to the birth of Jesus Christ. During this intertestamental period, no new prophetic revelations were given to Israel as recorded in Scripture, though significant historical developments took place under Persian, Greek, and Roman rule. This era saw the rise of various Jewish sects and the translation of the Hebrew Scriptures into Greek, known as the Septuagint. Its significance lies in bridging the Old Testament promises with their fulfillment in the New Testament, demonstrating God's sovereign timing in the arrival of the Messiah.
Did You Know?
During this intertestamental period, no new prophetic revelations were given to Israel as recorded in Scripture, though significant historical developments took place under Persian, Greek, and Roman rule.
This era saw the rise of various Jewish sects and the translation of the Hebrew Scriptures into Greek, known as the Septuagint.
This event is dated to approximately c. 400-5 BC in biblical chronology.
This took place at or near Jerusalem.
Key Passage
The Silent Years
Malachi 4:4-6
4emember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments.
Meanwhile in the World
Alexander the Great conquers from Greece to India (330s BC). Greek culture spreads everywhere (Hellenization). Rome rises to dominate the Mediterranean. The Maccabean revolt occurs. Julius Caesar is assassinated (44 BC). The Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) is translated in Alexandria.
Maccabean Revolt (167 BC), rise of Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes; Dead Sea Scrolls community