The destruction of the temple and the end of the Davidic kingly line marked the beginning of the time of the “diaspora,” when Jews would be scattered across many lands. Alexandria in Egypt and Antioch in Syria became major centers of Jewish life, and local synagogues took on new importance in Jewish communities. During this time, the Jewish longing for the Messiah took on growing intensity, urged on by the prophet Daniel. This resulted in unrest and uprisings, including the famous revolt of the Maccabees. Groups like the Pharisees and the Sadducees formed and celebrations like Hanukkah were initiated.
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