The Bar Kokhba Revolt Against the Romans
Bar Kokhba was not just a man of great physical strength, but he managed to once again unite the Jews in fighting against Roman tyranny. Midrash Eicha-Rabba, gives an account that Bar Kokhba would stop Roman ballista balls with his body and throw them back at the Romans, killing many. The Jewish army fought fiercely, causing Hadrian to assign more and more troops to Israel until nearly half of the Roman army was enlisted against the Revolt.
Many, including the great sage Rabbi Akiva, believed that Bar Kokhba, from the tribe of Judah, was the Messiah son of David. Even his name "Son of a star" hinted at the Biblical reference of the messiah, "a star shall come forth from Jacob." – Numbers 24:17
The Russian Compound excavation site. Roman Ballista Stones
Photo: Yoli Schwartz, Israel Antiquities Authority
Bar Kokhba Revolt findings in Judean Desert Cave displayed in the Israel Museum
Photo: AnaRina Kreisman
Overview
Bar Kokhva, known for his tremendous physical strength, intelligence and charisma, united the Jews in fighting against Roman tyranny. Battles were so fierce that Rome assigned nearly half its army against the Revolt.
In the Bible
'And what did Bar Kokhba (Koziva) use to do? On one of his legs, he used to catch the ballista- balls fired from the enemy's catapults and throw them back, killing many men'
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Antisimetism
