An in-depth analysis of the three major sects of Judaism at the end of the Second Temple era, and how Judaism as we know it came about. Included is a discussion of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the surprising origins of the Talmudic Sages.
For the class on the Essenes, the Hebrew Calendar, and the Book of Jubilees, see here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6Ed8ZmfbPQ
Further Reading:
'The Mystery and Mysticism of the Essenes': https://www.mayimachronim.com/the-mystery-and-mysticism-of-the-essenes/
On Herod and 'How Esau Became Rome': https://www.mayimachronim.com/how-esau-became-rome/
'Who Was the First Rabbi?': https://www.mayimachronim.com/who-was-the-first-rabbi-in-history/
----
The Midrash about the progression of mitzvot from Noach to Sinai can be found in Midrash Mishlei 31:5, and is also cited by Rabbeinu Bechaye on Exodus 20:17.