What did all Jewish apocalyptic groups agree on?

• A. Monotheism
• B. resurrection from the dead
• C. Dietary laws
• D. Sabbath observance

Answer: (B)

In Jewish apocalyptic thought, the defining hope is that history will culminate in God’s decisive intervention, restoring Israel and ushering in the messianic age. A central thread through these writings is the belief in the resurrection of the dead—the righteous will be raised to life at the end and partake in God’s renewed creation. This expectation of bodily resurrection is the common ground that unites apocalyptic groups, even as they differ on other issues. Monotheism is essential to Judaism but isn’t the distinctive point that sets apocalyptic circles apart. Likewise, dietary laws and Sabbath observance are important Jewish practices, but they are not the specific eschatological focus that all apocalyptic groups share.