The Ptolemies and Seleucids were dynasties that emerged after the death of Alexander the Great (356—323 BC), during the centuries between the Old and New Testaments. Both dynasties played key roles in the region surrounding Judea in the land of Israel. The Ptolemies ruled Egypt south of Judea for about 275 years (305—30 BC). They controlled Judea from about 301–200 BC. The Seleucids ruled Syria north of Judea for about 250 years (312—63 BC). They controlled Judea from about 200—142 BC.