Near East (112–123 CE): Second Jewish Revolt, Roman Repression, and Religious Identity

This era is notably marked by the Second Jewish Revolt, also known as the Kitos War (115–117 CE), which erupts across Jewish communities within the Roman Empire, particularly in Cyrene (Libya), Egypt, Cyprus, and Mesopotamia. Driven by tensions rooted in Roman oppression, religious conflict, and socioeconomic grievances, widespread violence leads to heavy casualties on both sides.

The Roman response under Emperor Trajan is swift and ruthless. Roman forces brutally suppress the revolts, resulting in catastrophic destruction in Jewish population centers. Alexandria sees violent pogroms, and the significant Jewish presence in Cyprus is effectively eradicated, with survivors forbidden to resettle there under penalty of death.

Concurrently, Christianity continues to spread steadily despite these tumultuous events, carefully navigating the volatile landscape shaped by Jewish unrest and Roman suspicion. The movement increasingly defines its theological and communal identity separately from Judaism, creating a more distinctively Gentile-Christian profile.

In Judea, Pharisaic leadership intensifies efforts to stabilize Jewish communities, emphasizing adherence to rabbinical teachings and reinforcing the spiritual and social cohesion necessary to endure Roman oppression. The redaction of traditions that will later become part of the Mishnah proceeds despite political instability.

Legacy of the Era

The years 112–123 CE profoundly reshape Jewish life in the Near East, with devastating human and cultural losses due to the Second Jewish Revolt and its harsh Roman suppression. Meanwhile, the resilience of Judaism and the growing independence of Christianity lay essential foundations for religious identities in the region, deeply influencing future historical developments.