For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
1 Peter 2:25
Most scholars regard the Jewish War as a prime example of ancient Jewish nationalism. The revolt was driven by the pursuit of "freedom", the removal of Roman control and the establishment of an independent Jewish state.
"First Jewish–Roman War." In Wikipedia. Accessed 3/15/2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Jewish%E2%80%93Roman_War
When Vespasian was declared Emperor on 1 July 69, Titus was left in charge of ending the Jewish rebellion. In 70, he besieged and captured Jerusalem, and destroyed the city and the Second Temple. For this achievement Titus was awarded a triumph; the Arch of Titus commemorates his victory and still stands today.
.... He put pressure on the food and water supplies of the inhabitants by allowing pilgrims to enter the city to celebrate Passover and then refusing them egress.
....Titus reportedly refused to accept a wreath of victory, as he claimed that he had not won the victory on his own but had been the vehicle through which their God had manifested his wrath against his people.
"Titus." In Wikipedia. Accessed 3/15/2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titus
According to Josephus, 1.1 million non-combatants died in Jerusalem and 100,000 in Galilee; 97,000 enslaved.
"First Jewish–Roman War." In Wikipedia. Accessed 3/15/2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Jewish%E2%80%93Roman_War
According to the Mishnah (Taanit 4:6), five specific events occurred on the ninth of Av that warrant fasting: ....
2. The First Temple built by King Solomon was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BCE, and the population of the Kingdom of Judah was sent into the Babylonian exile.....
3. The Second Temple, built by Zerubbabel and renovated by Herod the Great, was destroyed by the Romans on 9 Av 70 CE, scattering the people of Judea and commencing the Jewish exile from the Holy Land.
"Tisha B'Av." In Wikipedia. Accessed 6/21/2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tisha_B%27Av