Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Abgarus, also known as Abgar V, was a historical figure who reigned as the king of Osroene, a small kingdom located in what is now southeastern Turkey, with its capital at Edessa (modern-day Şanlıurfa). He is most famously associated with a legendary correspondence with Jesus Christ, which is not found in the canonical Bible but is part of early Christian tradition and apocryphal writings. Historical Context: Abgar V, also known as Abgar Ukkama or Abgar the Black, ruled from approximately AD 4 to AD 50. His reign is noted for its political maneuvering between the Roman Empire and the Parthian Empire, as Osroene was strategically located between these two powerful entities. Abgarus is remembered for his diplomatic skills and efforts to maintain the independence of his kingdom. The Legend of Abgarus and Jesus: The most famous account involving Abgarus is the legend of his correspondence with Jesus. According to the tradition, Abgarus, suffering from an illness, heard of Jesus' miraculous healings and sent a letter to Him, inviting Jesus to come to Edessa to heal him. In response, Jesus allegedly wrote back, declining the invitation but promising to send one of His disciples after His ascension. This disciple, identified as Thaddeus (one of the seventy-two disciples), is said to have visited Edessa, healed Abgarus, and converted the king and many of his subjects to Christianity. Sources and Apocryphal Accounts: The account of Abgarus and Jesus is primarily found in the writings of Eusebius of Caesarea, a 4th-century church historian, in his work "Ecclesiastical History" (Book I, Chapter 13). Eusebius claims to have found the letters in the archives of Edessa and translated them from Syriac. The authenticity of these letters has been a subject of debate among scholars, with many considering them to be apocryphal. Influence and Legacy: The legend of Abgarus had a significant impact on the early Christian church, particularly in the Syriac-speaking regions. It contributed to the perception of Edessa as one of the earliest centers of Christianity outside the Roman Empire. The account also underscores the early spread of Christianity into the East and the role of local rulers in its propagation. Biblical References: While Abgarus is not mentioned in the canonical Bible, the account of his correspondence with Jesus and the subsequent mission of Thaddeus is part of the broader narrative of the spread of Christianity as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles. The Berean Standard Bible does not contain references to Abgarus, as his account is not part of the biblical canon. Cultural and Religious Significance: The tale of Abgarus is emblematic of the intersection between historical events and religious tradition. It highlights the early Christian community's efforts to establish legitimacy and divine favor through connections with prominent historical figures. The account also reflects the broader theme of divine healing and the transformative power of faith, which are central to Christian teachings. Conclusion: The account of Abgarus remains a fascinating example of how historical figures and events can become intertwined with religious narratives, shaping the cultural and spiritual landscape of a region. While the historicity of the correspondence with Jesus is debated, the account continues to be a part of Christian tradition, particularly in Eastern Christianity. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABGAR; ABGARUS; ABAGARUSab'-gar, ab-ga'-rus, a-bag'-a-rus (Abgaros): Written also Agbarus and Augarus. A king of Edessa. A name common to several kings (toparchs) of Edessa, Mesopotamia. One of these, Abgar, a son of Uchomo, the seventeenth (14th?) of twenty kings, according to the legend (Historia Ecclesiastica, i.13) sent a letter to Jesus, professing belief in His Messiahship and asking Him to come and heal him from an incurable disease (leprosy?), inviting Him at the same time to take refuge from His enemies in his city, "which is enough for us both." Jesus answering the letter blessed him, because he had believed on Him without having seen Him, and promised to send one of His disciples after He had risen from the dead. The apostle Thomas sent Judas Thaddeus, one of the Seventy, who healed him (Cod. Apocrypha New Testament). Library Acts of the Holy Apostle Thadd??us, Narrative Concerning the Prince of the Edessenes. Sources and Literature. Introductory Notice to Memoirs of Edessa and Other Syriac ... General Index to Socrates' Ecclesiastical History. The Course Pursued by the Apostles after the Ascension of Christ. Choice of the Seventy. (Luke, X. ) --Import of the Number "Seventy ... The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. Concerning Images . Chapter ix. Thesaurus Abgarus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABGAR; ABGARUS; ABAGARUS. ab'-gar, ab-ga'-rus, a-bag'-a-rus (Abgaros): Written also Agbarus and Augarus. A king of Edessa. ... /a/abgarus.htm - 7k Epistles (2 Occurrences) Abgar Abagarus Abhor (23 Occurrences) Armenia (2 Occurrences) Apocryphal Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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