Old Testament, Religion & Spirituality 

Haggai Zecharaiah  1-8, volume 25B in the acclaimed Anchor  Bible, part of the Scripture known as the Minor  Prophets, were written during a critical period in  Israel's history, the momentous retum of the Jews  from Babylonian exile. Following the conquest of  Babylon by the Persian Empire, the Israelites sought  to re-establish their ethnic and religious legacy  in Judah. This was a time of profound turmoil and  uncertainty, and Haggai and Zechariah provided a  crucial measure of support and inspiration. They  rallied Israel's energies and exhorted their fellow  countrymen to heed the word of God. Under their  guidance the Jews restored the Temple at Jerusalem  which had been destroyed by the armies of  Nebuchadnezzar. Together the two prophets guided Israel  through an important transitional epoch, and  reconciled the influences of Persia's dominion with the  sacred traditions of the Hebrew  people.In this illuminating new translation and  commentary, Carol and Eric Meyers consider the first  eight chapters of the book of Zechariah in a  linguistic, social, and historical context. They  underscore the literary artistry, the political acumen,  and the prophetic authority of these fascinating  volumes whoch proved so vital to the survival of  Israel and the preservation of the Jewish faith. - from Amzon