Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: Arzareth is a term found in the apocryphal text of 2 Esdras, also known as 4 Ezra, which is part of the collection of writings known as the Apocrypha. The name "Arzareth" is often interpreted to mean "another land" or "a distant land." The etymology of the word is not definitively known, but it is thought to be derived from Hebrew roots, possibly meaning "another" (erets) or "land" (aretz). Biblical Reference: Arzareth is mentioned in 2 Esdras 13:40-45, a text that is not included in the canonical Bible but is found in the Apocrypha. The passage describes the journey of the ten tribes of Israel who were taken into captivity by the Assyrians. According to the text, these tribes decided to leave the multitude of the nations and go to a distant land where no human had ever lived, so that they might keep their statutes which they had not kept in their own land. 2 Esdras 13:40-45 : "These are the ten tribes that were taken captive from their land in the days of King Hoshea, whom Shalmaneser king of the Assyrians took captive; he took them across the river, and they were taken into another land. But they formed this plan for themselves, that they would leave the multitude of the nations and go to a more distant region, where no human beings had ever lived, so that there at least they might keep their statutes that they had not kept in their own land. And they went in by the narrow passages of the Euphrates River. For at that time the Most High performed signs for them, and stopped the channels of the river until they had passed over. Through that region there was a long way to go, a journey of a year and a half; and that country is called Arzareth." Historical and Theological Significance: The mention of Arzareth has intrigued scholars and theologians for centuries, as it is associated with the mysterious fate of the ten lost tribes of Israel. The narrative in 2 Esdras suggests a divine intervention that allowed the tribes to escape to a land where they could freely practice their faith. This has led to various theories about the location of Arzareth, with some suggesting it could be a reference to regions in Asia, the Americas, or other distant lands. From a theological perspective, the account of Arzareth reflects themes of exile, divine providence, and the hope of restoration. It underscores the belief that God remains faithful to His people, even when they are scattered and in exile. The journey to Arzareth symbolizes a return to faithfulness and obedience to God's laws, a theme that resonates with the broader biblical narrative of redemption and restoration. Interpretations and Speculations: Throughout history, various interpretations and speculations have arisen regarding the location and significance of Arzareth. Some have linked it to the Americas, suggesting that the tribes traveled across the ocean. Others have proposed locations in Asia or other remote parts of the world. These interpretations often reflect the cultural and historical contexts of those proposing them, as well as the desire to connect the biblical narrative with contemporary discoveries and events. In conservative Christian thought, the account of Arzareth is often viewed allegorically, emphasizing the spiritual journey of returning to God's commandments and the hope of eventual reunification of all of Israel. The narrative serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises, even in the most unlikely and distant circumstances. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARZARETHar'-za-reth, ar'-sareth (the King James Version, Arsareth): This is the land to which the ten tribes were deported (2 Esdras 13:45). It is described as "another land" lying a year and a half's journey beyond the river, i.e. the Euphrates. It probably answers to the Hebrew 'erets 'achereth (Deuteronomy 29:28). In Josephus' time the people were still believed to be there in countless numbers (Ant., XI, v, 2). Library Index i. Of Subjects The Jewish World in the Days of Christ - the Jewish Dispersion in ... Thesaurus Arzareth...ARZARETH. ar'-za-reth, ar'-sareth (the King James Version, Arsareth): This is the land to which the ten tribes were deported (2 Esdras 13:45). ... /a/arzareth.htm - 6k As (39600 Occurrences) Arza (1 Occurrence) Arsareth Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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