Flavius Josephus

Date of Birth: 37 CE

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: circa 100 CE

Biography

Flavius Josephus, originally named Yosef ben Matityahu, was a first-century Jewish historian and military leader born in Jerusalem. He hailed from a prestigious family, his father being a priest and his mother claiming royal ancestry. Josephus was well-versed in Jewish law and Greek literature, which positioned him as a key figure in chronicling Jewish history under Roman rule. Josephus initially fought against the Romans during the First Jewish-Roman War as a commander in Galilee. After a notable siege in Jotapata, he was captured by Roman forces. Predicting Vespasian’s rise to emperor, he secured his freedom and adopted the Roman name Flavius. He later became a Roman citizen and served as a mediator between the Jewish and Roman cultures. Josephus’ most significant works include “The Jewish War,” which details the Jewish revolt against Rome, and “Antiquities of the Jews,” a comprehensive history of the Jewish people from creation to the outbreak of the revolt. His writings are invaluable for understanding the context of Judaism and early Christianity in the first century.

5 Interesting Facts about Flavius Josephus

1. Josephus’ works are among the few historical sources that provide a detailed account of first-century Judaism and early Christianity.

2. He was initially a Pharisee, a member of a Jewish sect known for strict adherence to the law.

3. After his capture by the Romans, Josephus became a close associate of the Flavian emperors Vespasian and Titus.

4. His predictions about Vespasian becoming emperor reportedly led Vespasian to spare his life.

5. Josephus’ writings include descriptions of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, which was destroyed in 70 CE.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Flavius Josephus

1. “Everyone ought to worship God according to his own inclinations, and not to be constrained by force.”

2. “I was not afraid of the law of the Romans, but I was afraid of the law of my own nation.”

3. “It is a great deal better to live under tyranny than under anarchy.”

4. “The greatest part of mankind are so far from living according to their own choice that they live according to custom.”

5. “I have made it my business to preserve the memory of those facts which are committed to the trust of my own nation.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no specific record of Flavius Josephus’ net worth, but his association with Roman emperors likely afforded him considerable wealth and status during his lifetime.