Topical Encyclopedia The term "Arabians" in the Bible refers to the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions. This area, known for its vast deserts and nomadic tribes, plays a significant role in biblical history and prophecy. The Arabians are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, highlighting their interactions with the Israelites and other ancient civilizations.Geographical Context Arabia is a large peninsula in the Middle East, bordered by the Red Sea to the west, the Arabian Sea to the south, and the Persian Gulf to the east. The region is characterized by its arid climate and desert landscapes, such as the famous Rub' al Khali or "Empty Quarter." In biblical times, Arabia was home to various tribes and peoples, including the Ishmaelites, Midianites, and Sabeans. Biblical References 1. Trade and Commerce: The Arabians were known for their involvement in trade, particularly in spices, gold, and precious stones. In 1 Kings 10:15, the Bible notes the wealth that came to King Solomon from the Arabians: "besides what came from the merchants, the traders’ profits, and all the Arabian kings and governors of the land." 2. Military Alliances and Conflicts: The Arabians are often mentioned in the context of military alliances and conflicts. In 2 Chronicles 17:11, Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, received tribute from the Arabians: "Some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat gifts and silver as tribute, and the Arabians brought him flocks: 7,700 rams and 7,700 goats." 3. Prophetic Writings: The prophets of the Old Testament also spoke of the Arabians. Isaiah 21:13-17 contains an oracle concerning Arabia, warning of impending judgment and turmoil: "This is the burden against Arabia: In the thickets of Arabia you must lodge, O caravans of Dedanites." 4. New Testament Mentions: In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul refers to his time in Arabia following his conversion. In Galatians 1:17, he states, "I did not go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia and later returned to Damascus." Cultural and Religious Significance The Arabians were predominantly nomadic, living in tents and moving with their herds. They were known for their skills in horsemanship and archery. The religious practices of the Arabians in biblical times were largely polytheistic, with a pantheon of deities worshiped across the region. However, the influence of monotheistic beliefs, particularly through interactions with the Israelites and later through the spread of Christianity, is evident in historical accounts. Lineage and Ancestry The Arabians are often associated with the descendants of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. Genesis 25:13-16 lists the sons of Ishmael, who became tribal leaders and settled in the region: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah." Role in God's Plan Throughout the Bible, the Arabians are depicted as both adversaries and allies of God's people. Their interactions with Israel serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use diverse peoples to fulfill His purposes. The prophetic writings concerning Arabia underscore the theme of divine judgment and redemption, pointing to a future where all nations will acknowledge the God of Israel. Smith's Bible Dictionary Arabiansthe nomadic tribes inhabiting the country to the east and south of Palestine, who in the early times of Hebrew history were known as Ishmaelites and descendants of Keturah. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARAB; ARABIANSar'-ab, a-ra'-bi-ans. See ARABIA. Strong's Hebrew 6163a. Arbi -- inhab. of Arabia... Word Origin from Arab Definition inhab. of Arabia NASB Word Usage Arab (2), Arabians (2), Arabs (3). 6163, 6163a. Arbi. 6163b . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/6163a.htm - 5k Library The Dissension of the Arabians. How Antony at the Persuasion of Cleopatra Sent Herod to Fight ... How Izates was Betrayed by his Own Subjects, and Fought against by ... Concerning Abimelech; and Concerning Ismael the Son of Abraham ... Concerning the Revolt of the Trachonites; How Sylleus Accused ... I Wish, However, to Show How Celsus Asserts Without any Good ... How Herod Made War with the King of Arabia, and after they had ... Varus Composes the Tumults in Judea and Crucifies About Two ... What Actions were done by Alexander Janneus, who Reigned Twenty ... How Alexander, Upon the League of Mutual Defense which Cleopatra ... Thesaurus Arabians (8 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARAB; ARABIANS. ar'-ab, a-ra'-bi-ans. See ARABIA. Multi-Version Concordance Arabians (8 Occurrences). ... /a/arabians.htm - 9k Arabs (7 Occurrences) Arabian (5 Occurrences) Arabic Obadiah (21 Occurrences) Jeho'ram (21 Occurrences) Converts (9 Occurrences) Cretans (3 Occurrences) Jehoram (27 Occurrences) Joram (26 Occurrences) Resources Who are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.orgWhen were Obadiah's prophecies against Edom fulfilled (Obadiah 1:18-20)? | GotQuestions.org Who were the sons of Noah, and what happened to them and their descendants? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Arabians (8 Occurrences)Acts 2:10 Acts 2:11 1 Kings 10:15 2 Chronicles 17:11 2 Chronicles 21:16 2 Chronicles 22:1 2 Chronicles 26:7 Nehemiah 4:7 Subtopics Arabians: Invade and Defeat Judah Arabians: Oppose Nehemiah's Rebuilding the Walls of Jerusalem Arabians: Pay Tribute to Solomon Arabians: Prophecies Concerning Related Terms |
    |