Topical Encyclopedia Historical Context: Alexander III, commonly known as Alexander the Great, was born in 356 BC in Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia. He was the son of King Philip II of Macedon and Queen Olympias. Alexander ascended to the throne in 336 BC after the assassination of his father. His reign marked a significant period in ancient history, characterized by the rapid expansion of the Macedonian Empire through his military conquests. Biblical Significance: While Alexander the Great is not directly mentioned by name in the Bible, his influence and the impact of his conquests are alluded to in several prophetic passages. The most notable reference is found in the Book of Daniel, where his empire is symbolically represented. Prophetic References: In the Book of Daniel, Alexander's conquests are foreshadowed in the vision of the ram and the goat. Daniel 8:5-7 describes a goat with a prominent horn, which is interpreted as the king of Greece: "As I was observing, a male goat came from the west, crossing the face of the whole earth without touching the ground. This goat had a conspicuous horn between its eyes. He came toward the two-horned ram I had seen standing beside the canal and rushed at him with furious power. I saw him approach the ram in a rage and strike him, shattering his two horns. The ram was powerless to stand against him, and the goat knocked him to the ground and trampled him. And there was no one to rescue the ram from his power." This passage is widely understood to symbolize Alexander's swift and decisive victory over the Persian Empire, represented by the ram. The "conspicuous horn" signifies Alexander himself, whose military prowess and strategic genius allowed him to conquer vast territories with remarkable speed. Cultural and Religious Impact: Alexander's conquests had a profound impact on the ancient world, leading to the spread of Hellenistic culture and ideas. This cultural diffusion significantly influenced the regions of the Near East, including Judea. The introduction of Greek language, philosophy, and governance laid the groundwork for the Hellenistic period, which persisted even after Alexander's death in 323 BC. The spread of Hellenism also had religious implications for the Jewish people. The tension between Hellenistic influences and traditional Jewish practices is evident in the historical context of the Maccabean Revolt, which occurred in the 2nd century BC. This period of cultural and religious conflict is crucial for understanding the backdrop of the New Testament era. Legacy: Alexander's legacy is one of both conquest and cultural transformation. His establishment of cities, such as Alexandria in Egypt, became centers of learning and cultural exchange. The Hellenistic influence persisted long after his death, shaping the socio-political and religious landscape of the regions he conquered. In summary, while Alexander the Great is not explicitly named in the Bible, his life and conquests are intricately woven into the prophetic and historical narratives of the Scriptures. His role in shaping the ancient world had lasting effects on the cultural and religious milieu encountered by the early Christian church. Smith's Bible Dictionary Alexander Iii(helper of men--brave) king of Macedon, surnamed the Great, the son of Philip and Olympias, was born at Pella B.C. 356, and succeeded his father B.C. 336. Two years afterwards he crossed the Hellespont (B.C. 334) to carry out the plans of his fathers and execute the mission of (Greece to the civilized world. He subjugated Syria and Palestine B.C. 334-332. Egypt next submitted to him B.C. 332, and in this year he founded Alexandria. In the same year he finally defeated Darius at Gaugamela, who in B.C. 330 was murdered. The next two years were occupied by Alexander in the consolidation of his Persian conquests and the reduction of Bactria. In B.C. 327 he crossed the Indus; turning westward he reached Susa B.C. 325, and proceeded to Babylon B.C. 324, which he chose as the capital of his empire. In the next year (B.C. 323) he died there of intemperance, at the early age of 32, in the midst of his gigantic plans; and those who inherited his conquests left his designs unachieved and unattempted. cf. (Daniel 7:6; 8:5; 11:3) Alexander is intended in (Daniel 2:39) and also Dani 7:6; 8:5-7; 11:3,4 The latter indicating the rapidity of his conquests and his power. He ruled with great dominion, and did according to his will, (Daniel 11:3) "and there was none that could deliver .... out of his hand." (Daniel 8:7) Library Adrian iv; Alexander iii; Becket; the Third Crusade; (Ad 1153-1192 ... The Epistle of Alexander, Bishop of Alexandria to Alexander ... Brother Hugh The Church and the Boy Epistle. The Fancies of Manich??us Concerning Matter. From an Epistle to Origen. Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation The Church of the Middle Ages On Daniel. Iii. Scholia on Daniel. Resources Who was Athanasius? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened in the Maccabean Revolt? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of the Roman Empire in biblical history? | GotQuestions.org Alexander: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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