Jewish revolt against Heraclius

Jewish revolt against Heraclius
Part of the Byzantine–Sasanian War of 602–628
Date614–617/625 CE
Location
Result Byzantine victory
Belligerents
Byzantine Empire Sasanian Empire
Jewish allies
Commanders and leaders
Heraclius
Zacharias of Jerusalem (POW)
Modestus of Jerusalem (in 617)
Shahrbaraz
Nehemiah ben Hushiel 
Benjamin of Tiberias
Units involved
Byzantine army Sasanian army
Strength
Unknown 20,000 or 26,000 Jewish rebels
Casualties and losses
4,518–24,518+ Christians killed around Jerusalem

The Jewish revolt against Heraclius was part of the Byzantine–Sasanian War of 602–628 and is considered the last time Jews had autonomy over Jerusalem prior to modern times. Taking advantage of the weakening Byzantine control in the eastern provinces, Jewish communities in Palestine allied with the invading Persian forces against Byzantine rule, which had long imposed religious and legal restrictions on them. When the Persians captured Jerusalem in 614, Jewish rebels briefly gained influence in the city. However, when Heraclius later defeated the Persians and reconquered the region, Byzantine authority was re-established, and severe reprisals followed. These included massacres, forced conversions, and expulsions of Jews, ultimately ending the revolt.