R. Gnuse, «The Temple Theophanies of Jaddus, Hyrcanus, and Zechariah», Vol. 79 (1998) 457-472
A close reading of three accounts concerning theophanies experienced in the Temple (Ant 11,326-328, Ant 13,282-283, and Luke 1,5-23) implies that all three narratives share a common narrative format. Though it does not necessarily indicate that Luke used Josephus writings, this similarity suggests that both authors may have drawn upon a common format. Use of this format and specific variations added to it by Luke reflect significant theological themes imparted to the narrative by Luke, especially in regard to the identities of John the Baptist and Jesus.
might have been inspired by a common narrative of temple revelation which was shared by the Jaddus and Hyrcanus experiences recorded by Josephus. The Lukan narrative especially bears some striking similarities with the Jaddus account, in particular. It is most implausible to suggest that Luke used Josephus Antiquities, for that would push the date for Luke-Acts well beyond 100 CE (though it has been suggested in the past). Rather, both historians were familiar with the same sources or traditions.
Lukes use of the narrative format then appears most creative. Luke may have combined the plot with a prophetic call narrative format. In addition, Luke added several twists to the narrative, some of which reflect his theological agenda. Firstly, the angel rather than God is the medium of revelation, as is the case with the rest of the theophanies in the Lukan Infancy Narratives. Secondly, the priest in Luke is silent, a sign given by the angel to testify to the veracity of the message, but perhaps also a symbol of the power of God to bring salvific actions to pass without any human aid. Zechariahs silence contrasts vividly with the roles of Jaddus and Hyrcanus. Thirdly John the Baptist then replaces Jaddus and Hyrcanus as the active agent in announcing the message of God to the people. John the Baptist also functions instead of Jaddus as the one who goes forth to meet the "great personage". John is a prophet who contrasts with the priestly figure of Jaddus, but he somewhat complements Hyrcanus, who is a priest portrayed by Josephus as having prophetic abilities 15.
If valuable insights concerning the Lukan narrative may be gleaned by a comparison with comparable Josephan accounts, then such a form-critical exercise is valuable, even if no direct connection may be demonstrated between Josephan and Lukan accounts. Perhaps, other accounts may be worthy of closer scrutiny. One may observe that both Paul in the book of Acts and Josephus have several strikingly common personal experiences. Both had conversion experiences which caused them to change sides in a great struggle, after they had been responsible for the deaths of many (Acts 9,1-19; War 3,351-354). Subsequently, they were received with suspicion