Achel-damach is a term that appears in the context of the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. It is closely associated with the field purchased with the money that Judas Iscariot received for betraying Jesus Christ. This field is more commonly known as "Akeldama" or the "Field of Blood."

Biblical Reference:
The primary reference to Achel-damach is found in Acts 1:19. The Berean Standard Bible states: "This became known to all the residents of Jerusalem, so that in their own language that field was called Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood."

Historical and Theological Context:
Achel-damach, or Akeldama, is traditionally located in the Valley of Hinnom, south of Jerusalem. This area has a long history of being associated with death and burial, even before the events of the New Testament. The name "Field of Blood" is attributed to two main reasons: first, because it was purchased with the "blood money" given to Judas for his betrayal of Jesus, and second, due to the violent death of Judas himself, as described in Matthew 27:5 and Acts 1:18.

Significance in Christian Theology:
The account of Achel-damach serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of sin and betrayal. Judas Iscariot's actions and subsequent remorse highlight the gravity of turning away from Christ. The field's purchase with the thirty pieces of silver, as prophesied in Zechariah 11:12-13, underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Testament narrative.

Cultural and Linguistic Notes:
The term "Achel-damach" is derived from the Aramaic words "ḥăqēl" (field) and "dāmā" (blood). This reflects the linguistic context of the time, as Aramaic was widely spoken in Jerusalem and the surrounding regions during the first century.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of Achel-damach is debated, traditional sites have been identified in the vicinity of the Hinnom Valley. Archaeological findings in the area have uncovered burial caves and evidence of ancient use as a cemetery, aligning with the biblical description of the field's purpose.

Reflection in Christian Tradition:
Throughout Christian history, Achel-damach has been a symbol of the tragic end of Judas Iscariot and a cautionary tale about the perils of greed and betrayal. It serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of sin and the redemptive power of Christ's sacrifice, which offers forgiveness and reconciliation to all who repent and believe.Achel-damach (1 Occurrence)

Acts 1:19
This fact became widely known to the people of Jerusalem, so that the place received the name, in their language, of Achel-damach, which means 'The Field of Blood.')
(WEY)

Achel-damach (1 Occurrence)
Achel-damach. Ache, Achel-damach. Acheth . Multi-Version Concordance
Achel-damach (1 Occurrence). Acts 1:19 This fact ...
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Widely (11 Occurrences)
... Acts 1:19 This fact became widely known to the people of Jerusalem, so that the
place received the name, in their language, of Achel-damach, which means 'The ...
/w/widely.htm - 9k

Ache (1 Occurrence)

/a/ache.htm - 7k

Acheth (1 Occurrence)

/a/acheth.htm - 6k

Fact (98 Occurrences)
... Acts 1:19 This fact became widely known to the people of Jerusalem, so that the
place received the name, in their language, of Achel-damach, which means 'The ...
/f/fact.htm - 36k

Received (312 Occurrences)
... Acts 1:19 This fact became widely known to the people of Jerusalem, so that the
place received the name, in their language, of Achel-damach, which means 'The ...
/r/received.htm - 35k

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