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The dominant theme in Josephus' interpretation of history is divine providence, which means God's rewarding the righteous and punishing the wicked. According to the historian, this providence is reflected in the history and its record provides the readers with such lesson. This theme is developed by the figure of prophecy and fulfillment which he used. He believed that the present time should be dominated by Roman power in accordance with God's providence. So he thought Israel should obey the foreign power and hope their recovery in the future. This understanding of history in Josephus' historical writings reflects his social position, religious faith, and apologetic concern.