Topical Encyclopedia Beth-Zacharias is a location mentioned in the context of the Maccabean Revolt, a significant historical and religious event for the Jewish people during the intertestamental period. The name "Beth-Zacharias" translates to "House of Zacharias," and it is primarily known from the accounts found in the books of the Maccabees, which are part of the Apocrypha and hold historical importance for understanding the Jewish struggle for independence against Seleucid oppression.Historical Context Beth-Zacharias is notably referenced in the First Book of Maccabees, which details the exploits of Judas Maccabeus and his brothers as they led the Jewish people in a revolt against the Seleucid Empire. This period, occurring in the second century BCE, was marked by intense conflict as the Jewish people sought to reclaim their religious freedom and purify the Temple in Jerusalem, which had been desecrated by pagan practices under the rule of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. The Battle of Beth-Zacharias The site of Beth-Zacharias is most famously associated with a significant battle during the Maccabean Revolt. According to 1 Maccabees 6:32-47, the Seleucid forces, led by Lysias, sought to suppress the Jewish uprising and marched against Judas Maccabeus. The battle at Beth-Zacharias was a pivotal moment in the conflict, as the Seleucid army, equipped with war elephants and a large contingent of soldiers, confronted the smaller, yet determined, Jewish forces. The account describes how Eleazar, one of Judas Maccabeus's brothers, displayed remarkable bravery during this battle. Seeing an opportunity to strike a blow against the enemy, Eleazar charged at one of the elephants, believing it to carry the king. In a courageous act, he thrust his spear into the elephant's belly, causing it to collapse and die, though Eleazar himself was crushed beneath it. This act of valor is remembered as a testament to the courage and faith of the Maccabean fighters. Geographical and Archaeological Considerations The exact location of Beth-Zacharias remains a subject of scholarly debate. Some suggest it may have been situated in the region of Judea, south of Jerusalem, possibly near the modern-day site of Beit Zakaria. Archaeological evidence in the area has yet to provide definitive confirmation of the site's identification, but the historical accounts provide valuable insights into the geography and strategic importance of the location during the Maccabean Revolt. Religious and Cultural Significance Beth-Zacharias holds a place of significance in Jewish history as a symbol of resistance and faithfulness to God's covenant. The Maccabean Revolt, and the events at Beth-Zacharias in particular, underscore the themes of divine providence, courage, and the struggle for religious freedom. These themes resonate with the broader biblical narrative of God's people standing firm in their faith amidst persecution and adversity. While Beth-Zacharias is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible, its account is preserved in the Apocryphal texts, which, though not considered Scripture by all Christian traditions, provide valuable historical context for understanding the intertestamental period and the enduring legacy of the Maccabean heroes. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-ZACHARIASbeth-zak-a-ri'-as (Baith-zacharia): Here Judas Maccabeus failed in battle with Antiochus Eupator, and his brother Eleazar fell in conflict with an elephant (1 Maccabees 6:32; the King James Version "Bathzacharias"). It was a position of great strength, crowning a promontory which juts out between two deep valleys. It still bears the ancient name with little change, Beit Zakaria. It lies about 4 miles Southwest of Bethlehem (BR, III, 283; Ant, XII, ix, 4). Thesaurus Bethzacharias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-ZACHARIAS. beth-zak-a-ri'-as (Baith-zacharia): Here Judas Maccabeus failed in battle with Antiochus ... /b/bethzacharias.htm - 6k Beth-zacharias Eupator Beth-zatha (1 Occurrence) Bethulia Asmoneans Maccabaeus Maccabees Bathzacharias Bath-zacharias Resources Who was Ravi Zacharias? | GotQuestions.orgHow did God use dreams and visions in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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