The Second Temple period refers to the time in Jewish history from 516 BCE, when the Second Temple was completed, until 70 CE, when the Romans destroyed it. This era began after the Babylonian Exile, during which the Jewish people returned to their homeland and rebuilt their temple in Jerusalem. The period is significant for the development of Jewish religious practices and the emergence of various sects, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes. During the Second Temple period, the Jewish community experienced various influences, including Hellenism and Roman rule. Key events include the Maccabean Revolt (167-160 BCE), which led to a brief period of Jewish independence, and the rise of important figures like Herod the Great, who expanded the temple. This period laid the foundation for modern Judaism and significantly influenced early Christianity.