Topical Encyclopedia Apherema is a term found within the historical context of the intertestamental period, specifically mentioned in the apocryphal books of 1 Maccabees. It refers to a region or district that was part of the territorial negotiations and political maneuvers during the time of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire.Historical Context The Maccabean revolt, which took place in the 2nd century BC, was a significant Jewish uprising against the Hellenistic influence and religious oppression imposed by the Seleucid rulers. This period is marked by the struggle for Jewish independence and the rededication of the Second Temple, events commemorated by the festival of Hanukkah. Biblical Reference Apherema is specifically mentioned in 1 Maccabees 11:34, where it is listed as one of the regions granted exemption from tribute by King Demetrius II Nicator of the Seleucid Empire. The passage reads: "We have also granted them the right to mint their own coinage, and we have released them from the tribute, the salt tax, and the crown tax. We have also granted them exemption from the third part of the seed and half of the fruit of the trees, which is due to us. From now on, none of the priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, temple servants, or any other servants of this temple shall be liable to pay any tax or tribute. We have also granted them the right to fortify Jerusalem and to build walls around it, and we have released them from the tribute of the king which they were paying annually. We have also granted them the three districts of Apherema, Lydda, and Ramathaim, which have been added to Judea from Samaria, along with all their territories, to be annexed to Judea for all time." (1 Maccabees 11:34) Geographical and Political Significance Apherema, along with Lydda and Ramathaim, was part of the territorial concessions made by Demetrius II to secure the loyalty of the Jewish people during a time of political instability. These regions were strategically important as they were located in the heartland of ancient Israel, providing a buffer zone and enhancing the security of Judea. The inclusion of Apherema in these negotiations highlights the complex political landscape of the time, where regional powers sought to maintain control through alliances and concessions. The exemption from tribute and the annexation of these territories to Judea were significant victories for the Jewish leadership, as they strengthened the autonomy and economic stability of the region. Religious and Cultural Impact The granting of Apherema and other regions to Judea had profound religious and cultural implications. It allowed for greater religious freedom and the reinforcement of Jewish identity in the face of Hellenistic pressures. The ability to fortify Jerusalem and the exemption from taxes for temple personnel underscored the importance of religious worship and the centrality of the Temple in Jewish life. In summary, Apherema represents a key element in the historical and political narrative of the Maccabean period, illustrating the interplay between regional powers and the enduring struggle for Jewish autonomy and religious freedom. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia APHEREMAa-fer'-e-ma. See APHAEREMA (Apocrypha). Thesaurus ApheremaApherema. Aphe'kah, Apherema. Apherra . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia APHEREMA. a-fer'-e-ma. See APHAEREMA (Apocrypha). ... /a/apherema.htm - 6k Aphaerema Apherra Aphe'kah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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