Abstract:
In this social-scientific investigation a group of teaching intellectuals from the Hasidic movement are identified as the authors of Daniel 7-12. Their stance towards society during the crisis, brought about by the drastic reforms of Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 BCE, is explained in terms of their firm belief that the disturbed order of holiness would be restored in accordance with a fixed time scheme. Although a part of the cultural situation, their expectation of a future change debarred them from taking active part in society. Rather they maintained a passive and quietistic attitude.
