Early christianity and hellenistic judaism professor borgen introduces fresh perspectives into debates on central issues assimilation and separation mission and proselytism john and the synoptics exegesis of the old testament jewish and christian mystical ascent and their religious and political functions. Early christianity and hellenistic judaism peder borgen these studies break new ground in the exploration of early christianity and judaism towards the end of the second temple periodprofessor borgen introduces fresh perspectives on many central issues in the complexity of judaism both within palestine and in the diaspora. Early christianity and hellenistic judaism peder borgen ac black jan 1 1998 religion 376 pages 0 reviews professor borgen introduces fresh perspectives into debates on central issues assimilation and separation mission and proselytism john and the synoptics exegesis of the old testament jewish and christian mystical ascent and their religious and political functions he . This volume focuses on the role of judaism particularly that of philo and of gnosticism as two important forces shaping the response of early christianity to the hellenistic greco roman culture of its time the sections which examine hellenistic judaism investigate themes from greek philosophy like reason controlling the passions which are also crucial in shaping philos perception of the feminine the manner in which jewish authors of this period attempt to synthesize old testament