The Economy of Roman Palestine

It is clear from the primary sources that agriculture was the major source of income. The main crops were grains, wine and oil. There were additional activities such as growing linen, wool, dates and fruit trees, and fishing. The rabbinic literature enables investigation of the monetary structure of the agricultural economy. Professor Safrai also reviews the industrial sector - production of textile and glass for export and other products for domestic consumption. Professor Safrai analyzes the economic structure, the highly developed trade system in the city and the village, the agrarian structure, the influence of the Roman army on the economy of the empire, means of payment, currency and other economic issues. In conclusion, Safrai argues that the economy of Palestina was based on trade and was largely an "open market economy.