The Historical Development of Temple and State Administration in Persian-Period Yehud

Recent archaeological and other data provide an opportunity to reevaluate the administration of Yehud. Excavations of Jerusalem, Ramat Raḥel, and Yehud more broadly offer new insights. Furthermore, analysis of the YHD coins and stamp- seal impressions, along with other inscriptional evidence, point to the conclusion that governors located in Ramat Raḥel served as the primary administrators of Persianperiod Yehud, with Jerusalem and its cultic leaders only increasing in importance in the late fourth century bce.