The Historical Development of Temple and State Administration in Persian-Period Yehud

Key Points

• Histories of temple and state administration evolved significantly during the Persian-period in Yehud, highlighting key archaeological findings.
• Excavations in Jerusalem and Ramat Raḥel provide insights, showing how local governors played a pivotal role in administration.
• New analysis of YHD coins and inscriptions suggests that Ramat Raḥel governors were primary administrators in Yehud's political landscape.
• Jerusalem's religious leaders gained prominence only in the late fourth century BCE, indicating a shift in administrative dynamics.