How did judaism change under babylonian and persian rule?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylonian_captivity

http://www.historyforkids.org/learn/religion/jews/persians.htm

To understand how Judaism changed under Babylonian and Persian rule, we can follow these steps:

1. Research the historical context: The Babylonian and Persian rule significantly impacted the ancient Israelite kingdom and its religion, Judaism. Study the historical events during this period and consider the key factors that influenced Judaism.

2. Examine the Babylonian Captivity: Investigate the Babylonian Captivity, which began in 586 BCE when the Babylonians, led by King Nebuchadnezzar II, conquered Jerusalem and destroyed the First Temple. Understand that thousands of Jews were taken captive to Babylon, where they lived for several decades.

3. Explore the impact of the Babylonian Exile: During their exile in Babylon, the Jewish community faced significant challenges. Investigate how their beliefs and practices may have been influenced by the dominant Babylonian culture and religious practices.

4. Study the role of Ezra and Nehemiah: After the Persians conquered Babylon in 539 BCE, the Jews were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their temple. Explore the roles of Ezra and Nehemiah, who were influential figures in reestablishing Jewish worship and reinforcing religious observance.

5. Analyze the Persian tolerance: Understand the Persian policy of religious tolerance, allowing various local populations to practice their own religions. Investigate how this policy might have influenced the development and preservation of Judaism during Persian rule.

6. Examine the influence of Zoroastrianism: Explore the impact of Zoroastrianism, the dominant Persian religion, on Judaism. Identify potential religious and cultural exchange between the two, as well as any borrowing or adaptation of religious ideas.

7. Study the development of synagogues: Investigate the emergence of synagogues during this period. Understand how the Jews' encounter with different practices and the necessity for communal worship in the absence of a central temple may have led to the rise of synagogues as a focal point for Jewish religious and communal life.

By following these steps and conducting detailed research, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of how Judaism changed under Babylonian and Persian rule.