Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The name "Candace" appears in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Acts. It is not a personal name but rather a title used for the queen mothers of the ancient African kingdom of Cush, also known as Nubia, located in what is today Sudan. The title "Candace" is akin to "Pharaoh" in Egypt or "Caesar" in Rome, denoting a position of authority and power. Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Candace is found in Acts 8:27. The passage describes an encounter between Philip the Evangelist and an Ethiopian eunuch, a high official in charge of the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official in charge of the entire treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. He had gone to Jerusalem to worship." Historical Context: The kingdom of Cush was a powerful and wealthy civilization known for its trade and military prowess. The title "Candace" was used for the queen mothers who often ruled in the absence of a king or alongside a king. This matriarchal system allowed the queens to wield significant influence and control over the kingdom's affairs, including its economic and religious activities. Cultural Significance: The mention of Candace in the Book of Acts highlights the far-reaching influence of the early Christian message. The Ethiopian eunuch, as a high-ranking official under Candace, represents the spread of Christianity beyond the Jewish and Greco-Roman worlds into Africa. His conversion and subsequent baptism by Philip signify the inclusivity of the Gospel and its appeal to diverse cultures and peoples. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the account of the Ethiopian eunuch serves as a testament to the fulfillment of the Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations." The eunuch's encounter with Philip and his subsequent conversion underscore the universality of the Christian message and the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers through faith in Christ. Legacy: The account of Candace's eunuch has had a lasting impact on Christian tradition, particularly in Ethiopia, where it is believed to mark the beginning of Christianity in the region. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world, traces its roots back to this biblical account. The narrative also serves as an early example of the role of African nations in the history of Christianity, challenging modern perceptions and highlighting the continent's rich spiritual heritage. Conclusion: While the Bible provides limited information about Candace herself, the reference to her in Acts 8:27 offers valuable insights into the historical and cultural context of the early Christian era. The account of the Ethiopian eunuch under her authority illustrates the expansive reach of the Gospel and the diverse tapestry of the early Christian community. Smith's Bible Dictionary Candace or Candace(prince of servants), a queen of Ethiopia (Meroe), mentioned (Acts 8:27) (A.D. 38.) The name was not a proper name of an individual, but that of a dynasty of Ethiopian queens. Greek 2582. Kandake -- Candace, a queen of Ethiopia ... Candace, a queen of Ethiopia. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: Kandake Phonetic Spelling: (kan-dak'-ay) Short Definition: Candace Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2582.htm - 6k Library The Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch. A Meeting in the Desert The Course Pursued by the Apostles after the Ascension of Christ. Philip, the Evangelist The Necessity of Faith for Justification Against Marcionists and Manich??ans. Philip and the Ethiopian The Statement of the Apostle, that all Things are of the Father by ... By the Sacrifices of the Old Testament, Men were Convinced of Sins ... Words of Counsel. Resources What does the Bible say about venting? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view fashion? | GotQuestions.org Who was the Ethiopian eunuch? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |