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Alfred Edersheim (1825-1889) was a noted 19th-century Jewish convert to Christianity and a biblical scholar renowned for his deep and extensive understanding of Jewish culture and history. Born in Vienna, Austria, Edersheim immigrated to Hungary and converted to Christianity through the influence of Scottish Presbyterian missionaries. His conversion eventually led him to pursue theological studies, first in Hungary and subsequently at the University of Edinburgh. Edersheim was ordained in the Free Church of Scotland, serving as a minister before dedicating his life to scholarship and writing. He is perhaps best known for 'The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah', a comprehensive biography of Jesus Christ against the backdrop of Jewish society and historical context. Edersheim's other significant works include 'The Temple: Its Ministry and Services as they were at the Time of Jesus Christ', providing a detailed account of the Second Temple period, and 'Bible History: Old Testament', which traces Jewish history from the creation to the return from exile. His scholarly approach combined thorough knowledge of Jewish traditions and meticulous study of ancient sources, making his works valuable resources for theologians and historians. Edersheim's literary style conveys the cultural nuances of biblical events, bridging the gap between Jewish roots and the Christian understanding of Scripture.
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