History · 26 · Prophet and Priest

Priests gained power under empire

When empires conquered their societies, priests often grew more powerful, since temples channeled imperial patronage.

Empires empower intermediaries.

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Ezra-Nehemiah shows Persian kings showering the temple and its staff with gifts and tax exemptions.

Bible reference: Ezra 7:21–24

Source: Why the Bible Began, pp. 416

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