The time of the Babylonian capitivity (c .587-539 BCE) is of seminal importance for the formation of the Hebrew Bible as well as for the religious development of Judaism. Previous studies of this era have usually privileged the perspective of the community of captives (the Golah), and the period is known as the `Exilic Age'. Jill Middlemas challenges this consensus, arguing that the Golah community represents only one viewpoint, and that the experiences and contributions of the majority of the Judaean population, those who remained in Judah, need to be more fully appreciated.

Introduction

1. The social and historical situation in templeless Judah
2. Conceptions of Judah. I. Idolatrous cults
3. Conceptions of Judah. II. Yahwistic practice
4. The voice of the land - Lamentations
   Conclusion