Flavius Josephus was a prominent 1st century Jewish historian and military leader[1]. Here are some key facts about him:
## Background and Early Life
- Born in Jerusalem around 37 AD as Yosef ben Matityahu[1][3][4]
- Came from a priestly family on his father's side and had royal ancestry through his mother[1]
- Received a thorough religious education in Jerusalem[3]
## Career and Writings
- Initially fought against the Romans in the First Jewish-Roman War as a general[1]
- Surrendered to the Romans in 67 AD and later became an advisor to Roman leaders[1]
- Wrote several important historical works, including:
- **The Jewish War** (c. 75 AD)
- **Antiquities of the Jews** (c. 94 AD)
- **Against Apion** (c. 97 AD)
- **The Life of Flavius Josephus** (c. 99 AD)[1][3]
## Historical Significance
- Provides crucial information on 1st century Judaism and early Christianity[1][3]
- Offers independent accounts of figures like Pontius Pilate, Herod the Great, and Jesus[1]
- His works are considered a primary source for reconstructing Jewish history of that period[2][3]
Josephus's writings, while sometimes controversial, remain invaluable for understanding the historical context of early Christianity and Judaism in the Roman world[2][3].
Sources
[1] Flavius Josephus https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josephus
[2] A Portrait Of Jesus' World - Josephus, Our Primary Source - PBS https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/portrait/josephus.html
[3] Flavius Josephus - World History Encyclopedia https://www.worldhistory.org/Flavius_Josephus/
[4] Who Was Flavius Josephus, the Jewish Historian? https://www.patternsofevidence.com/2021/12/03/flavius-josephus-jewish-historian/
[5] Flavius Josephus (1st century): An Ancient Jewish Historian Who ... https://jewishstudies.asu.edu/JsJosephus