This English translation of Eshel's (land of Israel studies and archaeology, Bar-Ilan U., Israel) 2004 Hebrew publication provides an analysis of what can be learned from the Qumram scrolls about political history of the Hasmonean State during the Second Temple period. The translation also contains updated information based on recent scholarship. Topics include Alexander Jannaeus and his war against Ptolemy Lathyrus, the successors of Alexander Jannaeus and the conquest of Judaea by Pompey, the assassination of Pompey, and the changing notion of the enemy and its impact on the Pesharim. Indices group by ancient literature, ancient names, geographical names, and modern authors. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)