Topical Encyclopedia Arathes is not a name directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible. However, it is a name that appears in historical and apocryphal texts, often associated with the rulers of the Parthian Empire, particularly in the context of the Hellenistic period and the intertestamental history that provides background to the New Testament era.Historical Context The name Arathes is often linked to the Parthian kings, known as the Arsacids, who ruled over a significant portion of the Near East from approximately 247 BC to AD 224. The Parthian Empire was a major political and cultural power during the time between the Old and New Testaments, influencing the regions surrounding Judea. This period is crucial for understanding the geopolitical landscape during the life of Jesus and the early church. Parthian Influence in the Biblical World The Parthians are mentioned in the New Testament in the context of the Day of Pentecost. In Acts 2:9 , Parthians are listed among the diverse groups present in Jerusalem who heard the apostles speaking in their own languages: "Parthians, Medes, Elamites, residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia." This highlights the widespread influence and reach of the Parthian Empire, as well as the diverse audience that witnessed the early spread of the Gospel. Cultural and Political Significance The Parthian Empire, under rulers such as those bearing the name Arathes, was known for its conflicts with the Roman Empire, which also played a significant role in the New Testament world. The tension between these two empires often affected the regions of Judea and Galilee, where Jesus conducted His ministry. Understanding the Parthian influence helps to contextualize the political backdrop of the New Testament, where Roman authority was often challenged by neighboring powers. Arathes in Apocryphal Texts While Arathes is not mentioned in the canonical Bible, references to Parthian rulers can be found in apocryphal and historical writings. These texts, while not considered inspired Scripture, provide additional insight into the historical and cultural milieu of the time. They often depict the Parthian kings as powerful rulers who maintained a delicate balance of power with Rome, impacting the political dynamics of the regions mentioned in the Bible. Conclusion Although Arathes does not appear in the biblical text, understanding the role of Parthian rulers like him enriches the historical context of the New Testament. The Parthian Empire's interactions with Rome and influence over the Near East are significant for comprehending the complex political and cultural environment in which the early Christian church emerged. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARATHESa-ra'-thez (the King James Version Araiarthes; Arathes; Ariarathes): King of Cappadocia, 163-130 B.C. Educated in Rome, he imbibed Roman ideas and became a faithful ally of the Romans, in conformity with whose wishes he declined a proposal of marriage with the sister of Demetrius Soter. The latter declared war, drove Arathes from his kingdom and set up Holophernes in his stead. He fled to Rome about 158, and through the good offices of the Romans succeeded in obtaining for himself a participation in the government of Cappadocia. Later he again became sole king. In 139 B.C., as a result of an embassy sent by Simon Maccabeus, the Romans wrote letters to Arathes (1 Maccabees 15:22) and other eastern kings in behalf of the Jews. (See Diodor. XXXI, 19, 28, 32; Justin, XXXV, 1; Polyb. III, 5; XXXII, 20-30; XXXIII, 12). Thesaurus Arathes... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARATHES. ... The latter declared war, drove Arathes from his kingdom and set up Holophernes in his stead. ... /a/arathes.htm - 7k Araunah (14 Occurrences) Cappadocia (2 Occurrences) Ararite (2 Occurrences) Ariarathes Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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