Who are the prophets of the late 6th/Early 5th Century?

The correct choice identifies Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi as the key prophets from the late 6th and early 5th centuries BCE. This period follows the Babylonian exile and is crucial for the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the Temple.

Haggai and Zechariah, active during the time of the return from exile, encouraged the people to rebuild the Temple, which had profound implications for the restoration of Jewish worship and community identity. Their messages were timely and aimed at revitalizing the people's spirits after a period of despair and dislocation.

Malachi, considered the last of the Old Testament prophets, spoke against various social and religious issues that arose during the rebuilding efforts and addressed the people's unmet spiritual needs. His work emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God and the covenant, setting the stage for both the continuing prophetic tradition and the coming of the New Testament.

In contrast, the other choices include prophets from different periods. Elijah and Elisha are prominent 9th-century prophets with a focus on the Northern Kingdom of Israel, while Jeremiah and Zephaniah prophesied during the 7th century, prior to the exile. Joel and Obadiah similarly pertain to earlier timelines, with Joel's focus on